Hi! I am looking to find a good switch match with Atlas code 83 flex track. I like the Atlas code 83 for the price, but would like to use a different brand of switch. I was looking at the Peco code 83 switches, but saw that there is a substantial differenct in track height with Atlas 83 flex. Anyone have any good economical matchup between flex track and good switches?
Hi,welcome to trainboard i use the atlas switch it is not a code or anything it is just atlas and they work just fine get one and try it and if it works get however many you need i have no clue what i have i think mabie code 83
Welcome at TrainBoard, jdhass you can shim the lower track with paper, plastic or others. I've soldered the rail ends to PC board ties. Do you use rail joiners? Wolfgang
I was planning to use rail joiners. I'm really looking for reliable switch (looks aren't as important, just want good operation) that will match up well with Atlas flex track without having to make alterations to the track.
When we were building the new club layout, we scruitinized all the track manufactures to see what would work best for our needs. ME is by far the best looking but it can be a bit difficult to work with. Walther's /Shinahara was our choice. It also works well when tieing into the code 83 handlaid, They offered the DCC friendly turnouts at the time, slip and double slip as well. With so many club members w/ varying skills, this was a good choice. Bob K.
The ONLY turnout that is pretty much plug and play with Atlas Code 83 flex track is Atlas. ME & Peco require transition work at any point where they touch Atlas. The Walthers has a shorter tie (.020) but the rails are the same and they function very well. Walthers costs more, looks somewhat better, but I'm sold on Atlas turnouts, expecially their new Mark 4 which uses a solid, not stamped point rail. I've detailed the track related issues I've seen in this area on my blog at Joe Daddy: Lessons Learned - TRACK Here is a link to the methodology I use for selecting turnouts. Joe Daddy: LL- Turnout Selection Methodology Joe
