Atlas switch machines in foam scenery

[SteveRo]

I'm in the planning stages of a new layout. I would like to use Atlas code 83 track and turnouts. I plan to use 2-inch extruded foam over 1/2-inch plywood as my base. I'd like to mount the switch machines under the layout but I don't think I can do this through the 2-1/2 inch thickness. Does anyone have any suggestions as to alternate methods to hide the switch machines?

[Anonymous]

hi,
well i would like to know how deep you are going(wrap around), or the size of the table, then i may be of more assistance

MATT

[SteveRo]

The HO layout will be a 3x11 U-shaped, around-the-walls type of layout. The trackplan is a modified dogbone. Most of the roadbed will be sitting on two inches of extruded foam and 1/2 inch of plywood sub-bed plus the thickness of the cork roadbed that I plan to glue directly to the foam. There will be a small mountain and tunnel at one far corner so the grade track will be 1/2 plywood subroadbed and probably cork roadbed supported on risers attached to the open grid benchwork. All track and ties will be painted and ballasted.

[Anonymous]

Just a bit of safety advice here. Those Atlas switch machines will get REALLY hot in a short time if the control switch malfunctions, and constant current is supplied to the switch machine. You say that you are using foam construction, foam is very flamable when hot. Just make sure you shut off ALL power to the layout while it is unattended! I have had a few of these Atlas switch machines do an imitation of "Three mile island".
Just some advice....
Todd C.

[nfmisso]

Hi;

If you are using walk around control, on all the turnouts you can reach, put a toggle spring to hold the points to one side or the other like Peco has. No power required. Most of our club layout turnouts are this way.

See: http://www.comrail.org

For powered turnouts, use Tortise (or similar) machines, and mount them under the plywood. Atlas machines are not very reliable; like any solenoid style machine, require lots of current; slam the points side to side; and do not hold them in place.

Nigel

[SteveRo]

You're absolutely right. Most of my turnouts will be within arms reach and its pretty much a one man operation. I probably could make most of the turnouts manual. What would be good manual switch stand for use with Code 83 track? My railroad is an eastern one set in the early to mid-sixties and connects with the Southern/N&W.

[SteveRo]

Thanks for the advice, I'll sure keep that in mind. I was going to use the Atlas switch machines because I had them left over from an old 4x8 sectional track layout. Now that I'm about to embark on a permanent layout, I may want to consider alternatives. Thanks again!
Steve

[Anonymous]

I like those hand throws from Caboose Industries.
Make sure you spend the extra coin for the ones with internal springs. Last I knew, they were about 2 bucks a pop.
Todd C.