If I build the yard with #6 turnouts using Atlas 55 track, will the Peco's be the best bet since Atlas doesn't offer a #6 or should I use a #7 Atlas to keep the appearance the same? Also, with DCC is it preferable to use insulated or non insulated frogs, or am I opening a can of worms?
It will not be easy to match Peco Code 55 turnouts to Atlas Code 55 track. The Peco Code 55 track is actually a code 80 rail that is "embedded" in thicker ties so that only the Code 55 profile shows. This makes the track virtually indestructible, but it also makes mating it with Atlas or ME code 55 track a problem (it can be done - one way is to put a Peco rail joiner on the Peco track and then solder the Atlas or ME track on the top of joiner). But it won't be easy, and you'd probably be happier in the long run sticking with all-Atlas. As for the frogs, I ALWAYS use metal frog (non-insulated) turnouts. Especially in a yard, where you presumably will be doing slow-speed switching, using insulated frog turnouts is, IMHO, asking for trouble. What I do for my yards is feed power (DCC) "behind" the turnout, then insulate the four rails at the "Y" end of the turnout. Then drop another feeder to the tracks that come out of the turnout. If I have a 5 turnout ladder, what results is feeders on the rear of each turnout, and then feeders on each track coming off the ladder. John C.
Outstanding! I really appreciate the help and great advice. I'll stick with Atlass and use the #7's. I have room for a long yard and #7's will probably make switching long cars easier. I like your feeder technique. Sounds bulletproof.
ALWAYS go with the biggest frog number you can. If you are going to operate big cars and/or big engines NEVER use small frog turnouts. Don't even consider a #4 turnout. I know, #4's aren't made in code 55, The big frog rule applies even more so when running steam. The same idea applies also to track curve radius, the bigger the better.
I have mated Peco turnouts to Atlas code 55 by grinding the bottom of the Peco rail, up to the code 55 bottom flange. Then I can use an Atlas joiner and not have to solder anything. I use 1/4 roadbed under the Atlas Track and 3/32 cork (very common at any craft store) under the Peco. The tops all line up and once ballasted, you don't notice the different roadbeds. I like the Peco so I don't have to have oversized ground throws all over my layout. I should just install Tortise machines on the Atlas turnouts...
Aside from the operational considerations, realize that the tie spacing is very different between the Peco and Atlas turnouts (and flex as well). The Atlas code 55 track has the close tie spacing of North American prototype railroads, while the Peco code 55 track has the wider tie spacing of European prototype railroads. This is the reason I went with Atlas code 55 in the first place; seems like the Euro-style turnouts would stand out when paired with Atlas code 55 track. Jamie
