track confusion

[Anonymous]

I'm using xtrkcad to tweak a small n-scale layout. Not knowing any better I mixed and matched track from different manufacturers. That is, for most of the layout I used Atlas code 55 but in a couple places I have Peco curved turnouts because curved t.o.'s aren't available in Atlas 55. From what I've read here, these don't match up very well.

What to do? Do some brands of track play better with others? Do I have to use all Peco track if I want to keep the curved turnouts? Or, should I just ditch them and stick with standard turnouts?

Thanks for your help.

[Jacktal]

Peco code 55 are in fact code 80 tracks that are recessed deeper in the ties to make them look as code 55.The benefit from this is that Peco 55 will allow you to run locos and rolling stocks with deeper wheel flanges while you may discover that the Atlas 55 won't.On the other hand,Atlas 55 look more prototypical.

Matching Peco 55 and Atlas 55 can be done by modifying the joiners so that their heights are properly adjusted and lined up,which is of great importance in N scale.Another solution is to simply align them perfectly and glue (or nail) them in place,without joiners,in which case you'll have to supply feeders to your turnouts to ensure good power feed.You could also solder the TO's to the adjoining track to avoid the extra feeders,but I don't really recommand this solution as the TO's are more complicated to remove should they fail.

[dgwinup]

[#ditto]

An intelligent and informed reply to your question.

Darrell, smart enough to recognize an intelligent reply, and quiet...for now