ATLAS and KATO track compatibility

Fellow N scalers. The time has come to build a new layout after 20 years and I want to get stated on the right foot. My old layout was all Atlas and Peco code 80 track and switches. I would like to stay with the ATLAS code 80 track unless you talk me out of it. I have a double crossover designed into my new layout and I see KATO is the only one available that looks like it might be work. Can I transition from ATLAS to KATO and back without to many headaches? Most of my power is KATO, Atlas and a couple Arnold switchers.
This is the time to help me decide if I should change code. I believe code 80 is still the most popular. Thank for taking the time to give me your option.

P.S. I am all DCC except the Arnolds

 

There is no problem whatsoever. I had 5 Kato double XX on my layout. Good choice staying with Atlas code 80. That's what I used.

 

I have a mix on my layout between Atlas and Kato too. Easy, and no you dont' have to buy and use the expensive Kato/Atlas adapter kato sells. No need for it.

 

Staying with C80 is a good idea..especially with the Arnold switchers. I run C80 and none of my older stuff...freight cars included...with deep flanges cause any problems. The Kato will marry up to the C80 just fine.

.

 

As Tudor says, there is an adapter, but it isn't necessary that you use it. I did use a couple, but decided after installing them that putting three layers of card (artists' mounting board) under Peco track was just as good at balancing the height above board. I took the Unijoiner off the last Unitrack and used Peco rail joiners on both rails.

No problem!

Regards,

Pete Davies

 

Bandit - were you reading my mind?

Ok, same dance, different tune.
It's my intention to use Atlas flex track for most of my yard and interchange tracks. Um, I was not planning on using roadbed. Even as I type this I'm thinking, hmmm, Ok, use roadbed for the interchange track but not the yard. I sorta want to create a strong visual difference.
Yard Throat:

The yard is obvious.
The interchange tracks are the 2 along the rear.
Engine terminal to the right front.
Caboose? Service? opposite side of yard from engine terminal, (might be removed).

 

A Possible Solution:

As a cashier in a large retail chain I have access to large quantities of used "gift cards", (they are thrown away when empty). They are credit card size but do not have embossing.

For situations where I don't want to use roadbed I just (very quickly), tried:

1. Cut the gift cards into strips
2. Put two Kato rail joiners on the end of the Unitrack
3. Put the Unitrak in place
4. Slide the strips of card under the flex track. Make them,
   1. 3 cards high - right at the joint
   2. 2 cards high - next
   3. 1 card high - finish
   4. 
   This appears to provide a smooth transition from the Unitrak to foam board.

Notes:
I have not tried this on the layout - yet and it could be a week before I have a chance to test it.
Putting Atlas rail joiners on the Unitrack may be a better way to go

 

I haven't seen anyone mention it yet but Peco's code 55 line includes a double crossover that matches C80 track.

 

All you really need to transition from Kato to Atlas to Kato and Atlas is to keep good height in roadbed for the Atlas track then you should be ok.

 

Kato's Unitrack/Atlas adapter piece was actually designed to connect Unitrack to Tomix Fine Track, Kato just calls it a Unitrack/Atlas adapter so Americans will buy it.