Pete, that answer bothered me too, but for a slightly different reason. While it is true that most turnouts can't do the job of operating signals by themselves, as the 022 can, it would have been helpful to mention the latching-relay workaround. But the last sentence, "No other turnouts, then or now, have this capability", is just wrong: K-Line turnouts had microswitches inside that did the same thing as the 022.
The "Worse in reverse" answer is also incomplete. Locomotives with worm drives often develop trouble running in one direction due to failure of a thrust bearing on the worm (which is often integral with the armature shaft of the motor).
Bob Nelson
I liked the issue alright, especially the "mini-showroom" layout, but some of the answers in the Q&A column seemed a little testy and not especially helpful. "If you don't like my answer take it up with whomever rebuilt your smoke unit." Egad. And telling someone that Atlas switches can't be made to operate postwar block signals? I'm pretty sure they can, with a genuine Atlas brand snap-relay, even.
Pete
"You can’t study the darkness by flooding it with light." - Edward Abbey -
of course i meant "We'll build one for you story."
Agreed! Great issue. Loved the layout plan too!
Jon
Loved the two related Focus On Classics articles and the "We'll one for you story."
The NEWS section once again prompted a trip to the internet to make a purchase.
Keep up the good work!!
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