I am using Atlas N scale code 80 super flex track and am wondering what turnouts you recommend. My track plan has a few curved turnouts in it. Do Peco turnouts work with Atlas track, and if I go that way should I get insulated frogs or electro frogs? What do you use for turnouts and would you recommend them?
Also, Atlas under-table switch machines only have a 1-inch throw bar. Could I mount them to a board under the tracks and then suspend that from a hole in my foam? Or should I just get the more expensive Tortoise switch machines?
Thank you for your help.
Modeling the Maine Central in N scale.
1. Peco turnouts will work with Atlas track. The joiners are a little snug, but it works.
2. Peco turnouts have self-sprung points, so you'll need Peco machines to make them work. Atlas switch machines will not work with Peco turnouts without substantial modifications.
3. Tortoise machines will work with Peco, but you should remove the point spring from the switch so it has the smooth operation you pay extra for.
I recommend using Atlas customline switches, which just have the throwbar and no machine, and operate them with tortoise machines.
Lee
Route of the Alpha Jets www.wmrywesternlines.net
wm3798 I recommend using Atlas customline switches, which just have the throwbar and no machine, and operate them with tortoise machines.
Does Atlas make curved turnouts in their customline switches? Because they are not on their website.
Sadly they do not. For curved you can use the Peco, and just make the modifications to make it work. If the turnout is reachable, you don't even need a switch machine with the stock Peco. You can just snap the points over with your finger.
I use Shinohara/Con-Cor turnouts for my N layout. I think they are code 80?...maybe code 70. Any way they work well with my Micro Engineering code 70 flex track. I've got a couple Peco turnouts 'cuz you can get them in either insulated or non-insulated frogs. None of my turnouts are auto-control.
-Paul