I’ve just purchased a few atlas code 55 turnouts for my first venture into the N scale world. I’ve always used Atlas code 100 turnouts with Atlas under-table switch machines for my HO layouts and I was planning on using these same switch machines for my N scale layout. Now that I have these code 55 turnouts in my hand, I noticed that these turnouts look VERY fragile, especially the points and throw rod. It looks like only a few thin pieces of plastic are holding the switch points to the throw bar. I’ve also noticed that one of the point rails are bent and will have to be repaired.
This concerns me because of the “snap-bang” operation of the Atlas twin coil switch machines. I don’t want anything to break as soon as I start throwing turnouts. Do I really have to worry about this?
I also don’t want the points to bounce off the stock rails (I hope I have these terms right [:D]). Does this sort of thing occur often? I’ve heard of people making springs out of piano wire to hold the points to the stock rails, but this N scale stuff is just so tiny! Would adding a resistor to the switch machine circuit help at all?
I know some of you are going to say, “Just get a tortoise and all your problems will be solved.” As nice as this would be, it is not an option at $14 a pop for 32 turnouts. I guess ground throws would be an option but to me they look huge for N scale and I’d rather keep my hands off the layout.
If anyone has experience with these products together please let me know how it works for you. Thanks in advance.
Atlas does make under-the-table switch machines designed specifically for the Code 55 line. I can’t vouch for them, though, because I use Peco Code 80 turnouts.
I too have the code 55 Atlas turnouts for N scale.
Three main problems to contend with that I have found so far.
Cleaning, cotton cloth and alcohol only, any downward pressure on the switch points and they will start to curl. Derailment problems follow especially with steam locomotive.
The actuator coils inside the switch machine will overheat in less than 2 seconds. I’ve replace way too many.
Throw away the slider switch that comes with the turnout and buy a dual pole, spring-loaded center off switch at radio shack or some other electronics store. The slider switches tend to stick and that supplies power to the switch coil and before you can blink, another melt down has happened.
Those are my thoughts on the Atlas turnouts. Hope this gave you something to consider.
I will definitely use SPDT momentary toggles to control the machines. I’ve already burned a machine out using the slide switches. What I’m mostly concerned about is damaging the points because these machines are too strong. Should I be? I guess I can use the N scale deluxe machines but I already have 13 HO under-table switch machines.
I understand your aversion to the Caboose Industries ground throws, but I use them with Atlas as well as ME Code 55 track. Yes, they are a bit gormy and oversized, but I personally like their look, and since I have a rtather narrow layout, reaching over terrain isn’t a problem. Plus, I like the hand-thrown part, as it makes me think ahead about what needs to be done next, etc.
I am considering tying my hand at making some closer-to-scale ground throws, and if I go that way, I’ll post something about how it turns out… pardon the pun… sigh.
Just as an option, I have found that two SPST momentary normally open pushbuttons arevastly cheaper than a SPDT toggle. Requires a tidbit more panel space, but hey, I am all about saving $.
Additionally, If you are concerned about the strength of your turnout coils, you can always use something less than 12Vdc (like 10Vdc for instance) or just put a low ohmage resistor inline with the common to the turnout coil to restrict current flow to the coil (which in turn restricts the strength)