If you have used both a Traditional Lionel 027 Switch and a Fastrack Switch, I would like to ask your opinion.
We are in the process of designing a new separate layout possibly using Fastrack.
Some of our PW engines seem to be running a little rough over the Traditional (6-65121 & 2) switches on our present layout.
My question: Except for the roadbed (a given) is the mechanism on a Fastrack Switch the same as on a Traditional Switch, that is, would the engine run smoother over the Fastrack than over the Tradional?
Also, would you know if a RMT Beep (unmodified) run well over the Fastrack Switch?
As always, many thanks.
ALSO: Appreciate your suggestions for places with "best prices" on Fastrack. Thanks.
My BEEP runs just fine over the Fastrak switches and I have 2 of them.
I am the monster in your head...And I thought you'd learn by now, It seems you haven't yet.I am the venom in your skin --- Breaking Benjamin
ANJDEVIL2: Thanks.
Our local largest club uses all fastrack and switches now ... they and everyone who brings in everything from 1950 - present have no problems ever . Extremely more effecient than alot of older and other manufacturers switches ... especially mth switches ... some have problems with them and replace them and their track .
This question comes up frequently. I am currently running Fastrack O48 switches and they work almost flawlessly. With past layouts, I used O22 and 711 (O72) tubular switches. Some fixed wheel sets grabbed the guard rails on the 711's and I filed them back a bit. Fastrack switches so far perform much better than tubular for me overall.
One of the biggest issues when it comes to switches and fixed wheel sets is the inside dimension of the flanges. If too narrow, the wheel sets bind on guard rails and frogs. The chart below is a chart I made up by taking actual measurements off engines I own and I use it as a guide when out buying engines. As you can see, there is a .04" difference between the largest and smallest sample. A hair over 1/32". All wheel sets listed here work fine with Fastrack. But I have found wheel sets in the 1.08" range for Fastrack and 1.07 range for tubular give me the best operation. There are other issues such as wheelbase verses angle of attack which is why I originally itemized them into axle no's. In the field, I use a pocket digital caliper set I got at Harbor Freight for $12 BTW and it has proven accurate. It's just a guide mind you and when I measure something like 1.05", I walk away. LOL.....
Ole Timer: Good to know. Thanks.
John: Thanks for the info and guide. (Into my file.) I never stop learning - and enjoying the hobby.
I'm just starting out and using the Lionel Fastrack for my layout. I've been online at several well known discount stores and found the best prices are at M. B. Kline in Baltimore, Maryland. They are online at http://www.modeltrainstuff.com/
I've also been on Ebay looking for good deals. I find that people are paying as much or more for Fastrack there than MB Kline sells it for online.
Hope this is helpful.
Bill
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