I posted here because I think my questions are mainly electronic and DCC related...
With the shortage of Code 55 Atlas turnouts for months? I'm considering switching my plans to Micro Engineering turnouts. I am aware they only make #6 but they are suitable for my needs.
I've previously used Peco code 80 and I like the sprung design so I don't *need* to use turnout motors such as a Tortoise etc. I've searched and read the old threads but they don't seem to have much relevance to the new DCC ready turnouts so I have a few questions about Micro Engineering.
They have a spring to switch them, would you recommend mounting a motor too it or using a simple push rod mounted to the fascia with a knob? Or even as is.
I believe they are power routing with no modification required to use them with DCC, but what is the best way to wire so that my turnouts operate reliably? With DCC would I have to worry about it too much?
Does anyone have any additional advice on them?
Or am I better off going with Atlas and waiting for stock to come back online, and what do I need to do differently with Atlas turnouts?
Any help is appreciated.
James, Brisbane Australia
Modelling AT&SF in the 90s
Jamie,
I am building a door N scale layout and after some research, including buying samples of each, I went with ME turnouts on most of my layout, the exception being a few Atlas #5's in sidings. I'm using DCC.
The M/E turnouts are DCC 'friendly' but they are not power routing. You do need pickups on each rail coming out of the frog as they aren't live.
I don't have any turnouts powered so I am just using my finger to throw them and they hold well. I used Caboose ground throws for the Atlas turnouts and they work fine but the ground throws look a little clunky compared to HO.
I think they are slightly better looking than the Atlas.
They can be hard to find on occasion. I used ME flex too and I found it nice to work with as it does hold any curve you bend.
CN Charlie
Hi again, thanks for the reply CN Charlie.
I picked up a code 55 Atlas switch today and some ME flex to test. the LHS had no ME switches in stock. I assume Atlas are to be wired the same as ME?
From what I can grasp Atlas are insulated. Is there any need to use insulated joiners around the switches? I plan on dropping feeder wires from each length of track. Is it necessary to attach any feeders to the switch?
Also if I have a pair of switches facing each other to form a crossover between mainlines, will I need to insulate them or will they be fine?
There is no need for insulated rail joiners unless you want to isolate a section of track. I did so for a 'couple of sidings so I can cut the power to locos if I want to programme on the main. I did that with my HO layout for the engine service yard. As I have mostly sound locos it makes for a quieter layout and also again for times when I want to programme on the main.
Only if you plan on powering the frog would you need to attach feeders to the switch per the instructions on the back of the package. There is a Caboose ground throw for that application. I didn't and haven't had any problems.
I have 2 pairs of switches facing each other for 2 crossovers and as the ME frog rails aren't powered you need a feeder or feeders between the 2 switches.
I see that MB Klein has lots of the ME turnouts in stock right now.