N Scale switch problem

[Anonymous]

I think I may have a problem with a couple of Atlas switches. I can run my loco around the track with no problems, but a couple of the switches cause rolling stock to derail. If I run my finger over the switches, it seems that the plastic guides (?) are i bit higher than the track. I can trim it with a small very sharp wood chisle, but is this typical?

The rolling stock has not had any additional weight added, and they seem to my unexperienced hand a little light. Should I add some weight? If so; how much?

Len

[Anonymous]

I work in HO scale, so some of my advise may not apply. I find that adding weight usually helps to fix problems, as long as you don't go overboard, and your engine can handle the extra load. Are Atlas's N scale switches similar to their HO snap switches. I made a post a while back about replacing/improving them that I got some good responces from. It is titled "Atlas Switches" and right now it is on page 2.

[Anonymous]

You might also try just sanding down the too-tall plastic frogs. One thing I did, as well, was to carefully carve the sharp angle of the frog back to be a little bit more blunt; this opens up the gauge between the rails right at the intersection, so you don't want to overdo this. But doing so allows the frog to catch wheels that have wandered or are out-of-gauge.

Of course, these days I am in the midst of replacing all my older Atlas track (with the plastic frogs) with new and better-looking Micro Engineering Code 55 #6 switches (I've never tried the new Atlas Code 55, but I bet even it is better than what you're using). This is, without doubt, a major investment. But, they are power-routing turnouts, meaning that the rails are solid and continuous through the frog (i.e. the frog is conductive metal) which reduces the potential for locomotives to stall. If you have some problem switches, you might just consider replacing them with another brand name.

[Anonymous]

In the N-scale club that I belonged to, we used Peco switches because they were spring-loaded to give positive seating in either the thrown or open positions. Our experience with the Atlas switches was less than pleasant, since they were not spring-loaded and tended to wander, even with the ground throws attached. I know the Peco switches are more expensive, but I think they're of a better manufacture than what the Atlas switches are.

I'm not endorsing a particular brand, but just stating what worked for us. You may find a better switch, or, barring that, there was an article in MR last year about making your own spring-clips out of a paper-clip and installing them in the switches.