I recently installed an Atlas code 100 curved turnout ( item 0287 ) and a delux undertable switch machine ( 0066 ) on my layout. I am using standard cork roadbed and a 1/2" plywood sub-base. The fit between the throw bar and the metal rod of the switch machine appears to be very loose and the points do not seem to close properly. Has anybody had any issues with using these switch machines with the new code 100 Atlas curved turnouts?
I’ve only used Atlas above-ground machines, but they all work pretty well. These machines have a lot of overthrow, but it’s the springiness of the throw wire that holds the points in place.
Do you have a large enough opening for the machine to travel its full extent without obstruction, in the absence of the turnout? Does the throwbar move freely with little friction in the absence of the machine?
I haven’t used any of the #66 switch machines but I do have 30 plus years experience with the #65. They have never been more than marginal on my layout and they started failing a couple of years ago.
Because of the long throw required to get to the moving point rails it always takes more than one activation to secure the point rails to the stock rails. Even though the switch machine locks there can still slight movement of the point rails as the train clears the turnout from the slop in the Atlas throw arm.
I modified several Atlas Custom Line turnouts to accept a Peco PL-10 switch machine.
https://melvineperry.blogspot.com/2015/01/january-10-2015-turnout-modification.html
The modification works very good and much better than the #65 ever did.
The problem with the Atlas under layout switch machine is the moving arm inside the housing is too flimsily and it twists so the vertical throw arm can’t keep the turnout point rails against the stock rails.
Yes, I too have moved away from Atlas machines and even Atlas turnouts, as the last big upgrade to my layout was during the Great Atlas Track Shortage.
I love the way my Tortoise machines perform.
I like Atlas track, although I use code 83, but I would never use an Atlas switch machine. Mel has already explained why.
I prefer slow motion machines like the Tortoise.
Sheldon
Thank you Mister Beasley. I did also buy some shinohara curved turnouts and tortoise machines but I installed this Atlas turnout because there was an existing 22" radius at that location and the Atlas was almost a perfect fit.
In the future it looks like Shinohara and Tortoise for me.
Thanks.