E-Z Track TURNOUTS

[Anonymous]

Hello Railroaders,
Does anyone know if you can use either KATO or Bachman EZTRAK turnouts and crossovers with flextrak? I was planning on trying this as to avoid using under layout switch machines. This layout is semi-permanent. We are moving in about a year, so it would be dismantled. But still want to have that permanent feel.
Would I have to cut the metal tabs, and then solder the flex track to the EZTRAK? Of course I would need roadbed under the flextrack. It seems like it would work. Any IDEAS?
THANKS,
WILLJR

[dgwinup]

WILLJR,

Take a look at this thread just posted today. Looks like what you want is doable.

"Kato nscale unitrak conversion to flex track "

Darrell, quiet...for now

[Anonymous]

The problem is that the roadbed on the bachmann and (and I think kato) track is MUCH thicker than regular cork. I wouldnt suggest mixing the two. The atlas under-table switch machines are only a few $ each and very easy to install. I have about 50 of them on my layout and they work great.

[Anonymous]

The problem is that the roadbed on the bachmann and (and I think kato) track is MUCH thicker than regular cork. I wouldnt suggest mixing the two. The atlas under-table switch machines are only a few $ each and very easy to install. I have about 50 of them on my layout and they work great.

[Anonymous]

Well, the thickness was a concern of mine, as was the reliability of the turnouts.
Does anyone use them? And are they any good?
I'm building the layout on 3/4 inch ply, and build up from that.
Could you please tell me the best way to install the under table switch machines. I know I'll most likely have to purchase a jigsaw.
My problem is that I have 6 screws and 2 rods in my neck. So all of the crawling under the layout and looking up, is going to be the challenge.
Any input would be helpful.
WillJr

[Anonymous]

i use the backmann turnouts.. i think they work great. no screws to worry about, all u do is plug them in. the problem is that if uhave a turnout far away from ur power pack, then u need an extension, but those aren't that expensive and they reach very far. i recommend using them if uwant to.

[Anonymous]

OK, but do you have flex track attached to the turnout?
I read that the roadbed is much thicker than cork. I would most likely have to stack the cork, or use something else for roadbed.
Thanks, Willjr

[mechanic]

I have flex track attached to a Bachman turnout.
The cork roadbed isn't quite thick enough to match the Bachmann height as you already noted.
Just shim the roadbed a little with whatever you like and glue it down.
It will work fine.
HTH
Eric

[Anonymous]

The atlas turnouts in my opinion are more reliable. Plus they are much cheaper than the EZ track. And you dont need a jigsaw to install the under table atlas machines. All you need is a 3/4 inch drill bit. When you buy the switch machine it has instructions for installation. It says to screw them to the bottom of the layout. I prefer to glue them with liquid nails. It holds when you first put it on, and then you can fine-tune the position of the switch machine in order to make sure it throws your points all the way. When you have it in the right place, let it sit a couple hours to dry. Attach the 3 wires, and thats it![:D]

[Anonymous]

Thank you all for your input. At least I know which products to look into.
Again thanks for your input, and have a good day.
Willjr