Can anyone tell me the difference between Atlas Custom line Turnouts and Atlas Super Switches? I have searched the Atlas site for a better desciption of each and came up blank, and my LHS is over 60 miles away and I have not been able to get in there to compare the two.
While I have your attention is Walthers Shinohara code 83 switches compatible with Atlas code 83 flex track?
Thanks for looking, all replies are greatly appreciated.
Ron
I will answer your second question first. Walthers Shinohara Code 83 turnouts, of all types, are fully compatible with Atlas Code 83 flex track. They better be. I have them all over my layout.
As to your second question, Atlas Super Switches have a longer footprint than the Custom Line turnouts, are more detailed and more prototypical, more closely matching a true #6 turnout. The Custom Line turnouts are designed for either under-the-layout switch motors (i.e., Tortoise) or a layout surface mounted manual ground throw. While a layout surface mounted manual ground throw can be connected to a Super Switch, that turnout is basically designed for under-the-layout switch motors.
Both of those Atlas turnouts are completely compatible with Atlas Code 83 flex track. They better be. I have both of them on my layout.
The Super Switch is usually more expensive than the Custom Line, but right now, Walthers has the Super Switch on sale, and it is cheaper than the Custom Line.
Rich
The ‘Super Switch’ has a longer lead on the diverging leg. The ‘Customline’ has a shorter diverging lead - so a crossover can be constructed on 2" track centers. #6 ‘Super Switch’ and a #6 ‘Customline’ are the same geometrically - both diverge at a 9 degree, 31 minute angle.
The Walthers code 83 turnouts are compatible. The only issue is that the ties are thinner on the Walthers turnout, and it may need to be ‘shimmed’ up to match the Atlas trackage.
Jim