Atlas Truss bridge

[palallin]

I need some info from people who actually have used the two-track version of the Atlas bridge. The length is a nominal 40 inches: how long a gap can it actually span? Is the 40" measurement actual end-to-end or is it the maximum gap that the bridge can span?

Also, what is the distance between the track centers?

I am contemplating using one for a lift-out bridge. Is is strong/solid enough to take repeated lifting out and replacing?

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I designed my who layout around using this as a drop in out bridge. Once i set it all up i use the atlas rail connectors to provide electricity. However i took a fine file and removed most of the "bump" so that it could slide a bit easier. THe bridge have been very strudy and over two years i have no complains.
Bill

[palallin]

That's great, Bill, thanks for the info! But can you give me the measurements I need to duplicate your set-up?

[palallin]

BTW, I tried the Atlas website, and the dimensions I need aren't listed. That's really rather odd: I would have expected them to have at least listed the distance between track centers.

[casconi]

I have this bridge and it works great. It comes with pin adapters so if you have Lionel tubular, Lionel Fastrack (need adapter tracks), or Gargraves it is completely compatible. The bridge is 40 inches - end to end. There are two dimensions between track distances. From each outside rail is 3.5 inches. Between the actual plastic that holds each track line is 1.5 inches. There is enough distance to accommodate any size loco. The clearance is also 9 inches which is a help for electric locos like a JLC GG-1. The bridge comes in a kit which you have to assemble. Hope this helps!

Chris

[palallin]

Thanks, Chris! I just to need to clarify for myself (as I will be desgining part of my track plan around this dimension) that the gap between the two rails nearest to one another is 3.5". How wide is the whole thing, then (if you wouldn't mind checking)?

Thanks again!

[casconi]

Yes thats correct - the space between each track line is 3.5". The entire bridge is 10" wide. Also, the kit comes with plastic inserts that can fill in the "open" space between each line. I choose to not use them because I like this look better. Attached is a photo so you can see it better. I also designed a section of my layout around this bridge. I used 2x4's that I will eventually paint to hold it in place.

[palallin]

Outstanding!

Thanks again!