I cannot find the answer to this no matter how I word my Google searches, and it’s simple enough (I think) that I feel foolish asking it here.
I’m new to model RRing, having just started just after Xmas. I have yet to build a permanent layout for my 4x6 surface (biggest I can use), instead trying several different ones from various layouts available online, and ones I try to create by fooling around free-style, or SCRAM track planning software. I have a fairly large selection of basic Atlas Code 100 track.
I have found plans for a layout I would really like to try, but it’s for Marklin track, which is unfortunately not compatible with other (Atlas) track. I’ve spent way too much money on the track I’ve got to start over with a different brand. My problem is, the plans show track with Marklin stock numbers, which make it practically impossible for a newbie to figure out the approximate Atlas equivalents. For example, on the plans a curved section of track (I think 18/30) has a stock number of #24130. I have no idea what the Code 100 equivalent to Marklin’s #24130 is. Is there an easy way to figure this out so I can try the layout using the Atlas track I already have?
Thanks for any help. So far, these forums have been absolutely invaluable in teaching me the basics.
If you google each part number, you will find many sites where the size of each section is listed. Unfortunately, these will not match Atlas C100 parts.
Märklin uses metric measurements, Atlas measures in inches.
More importantly, the 24130 curve is what Märklin calls “R1” radius, which is quite sharp – roughly 14 3/16" radius. The closest from Atlas will be 15" radius sections, but many US locos and rolling stock models may not run reliably on curves that tight. (The third digit is the radius “type”)
The situation is similar in turnouts (track switches), the Märklin parts are often quite sharp and it will be difficult to make Atlas components match up with a Märklin track plan. The end result is that everything packed into a Märklin plan in a given small space likely will not fit with Atlas.
You’d probably be better off to find a track plan designed for Atlas in the first place and begin from there.
Good luck with your layout.
Byron
P.S. Here’s a chart from one reseller site that may be of help. I can’t vouch for every listing being accurate, nor for the dealer’s service.
Wow! Thanks for the graphics on radii, something I’ve had a hard time figuring out (I never fully got in in HS either). It helps a lot.
I had a feeling the layout was too good to be true. I’ve since used the Atlas SCRAM program to design my own, much simpler layout. Though simple, it fits the space I have, has enough switching and spurs to make it interesting, and still leave enough room to build the logging operation I’ve always had in mind. Even better, it can be done using the track I have on hand.
A couple more related questions.
Other than the track with the built-in road bed, will Atlas C-100 mesh with any other HO track from a different manufacturer – say Bachmann or Athearn for example.
Right now, I’m using manual switches until I’m sure everything comes out right and works properly. I’m keeping wiring to a minimum – just power to the track – for the time being. Is it possible to upgrade to remote switches after the layout is essentially complete? If so, how do I know which remote switch is the proper replacement for the manual switch?
Thanks again for the help, especially the awesome graphics! You rock!
It will likely require some shimming of the roadbed and/or filing of the rail at the junctions of track from different suppliers, since all Code 100 track does not have the same tie height or rail profile. If this is your first layout, keeping it simpler by standardizing as much as possible on one manufacturer will help – and might be worth the expense of replacing some oddball sections. Train set turnouts (track switches) in particular are often unreliable in the long run, but it depends on the supplier.
It depends on the turnout and the manufacturer. In many cases, it’s much harder to add the switch machines after the track is laid*. The manufacturers’ web sites are good resources.
You are welcome, but that isn’t my graphic – I just found it from a google search on the part number you listed.
