I am in the early design stages of a new HO layout, and I would appreciate some help if anyone can offer it. I need to know the overall length of two Atlas code 83 #8 turnouts in a crossover arrangement on 2" track centers.
Many thanks in advance!
Tom
I have several of these and will measure one tonight and post it.
I measured one of my Atlas #8 cross overs and the length is 24 3/8"
The are designed for a 2" center for use in cross overs. 2" center requires no trimming or short filler section on the diverging routes.
Considering price and availability I think the Atlas #8’s are decent.
I planned to use Walthers but the availability got to be such a pain, only able to get them maybe twice a year at best. If you can plan ahead really well and dont mind waiting for the next shipment they might be OK.
One thing the Atlas #8 has over every other switch I’ve seen is the set up for wiring the frog. A nice little loop outside the tie.
With the frog casting painted and the “train set” last tie cut off all three ends they look pretty good.
The new Peco #8 is nice but about twice the price of a Walthers and 3 to 4 times an Atlas.
pkeppers - thank you very much - that’s just what I needed to know!
Tom