What does everyone recommend as the most reliable turnouts (switches) for hidden trackage. Looks not important as the track is hidden. I’m really most interested in 072 and above. I’ve used Lionel, Gargraves, Atlas with similar results - no clear winner. What’s your experience been? Thanks!
I had talked with several people at hobby shops about the best track to use and most recommended Atlas. It’s sturdy, the appearence is good, and it conducts electricty better than the tubelar track, and available at most stores. It’s not too difficult to cut either.
I had some hidden track on a previous layout and it was always a test of nerves getting a train through switches. The big question was always where is the train. My track ran behind a backdrop so I could reach over the top to rerail a car, but it was always a pain to do. I rigged some mirrors over the track at about a 45 degree angle so I could see what was happening behind the backdrop, but everything you see in a mirror is reversed—the farest track away was now the closest.
I’d stay away from too much hidden track unless you have very easy access.
I have two hidden switches and they work every time.
Before I started my current layout I tested everything that was available and RealTrax was the hands down winner in the switch department.
RealTrax is available as O-72 and MTH will have O-82 track soon. This means that switches will follow.
*** Teal
I would recomend Ross switches with DZ-1000 controllers. Very reliable and smooth for great tracking.
I would also suggest Ross Turnouts. I have three hidden turnouts and as with all the turnouts on my layout, they too are Ross. I use NJI switch motors with them and have them wired for non-derailing. I have never have a problem with them in 8 years of running. John
What does everyone recommend as the most reliable turnouts (switches) for hidden trackage. Looks not important as the track is hidden. I’m really most interested in 072 and above. I’ve used Lionel, Gargraves, Atlas with similar results - no clear winner. What’s your experience been? Thanks!
I had talked with several people at hobby shops about the best track to use and most recommended Atlas. It’s sturdy, the appearence is good, and it conducts electricty better than the tubelar track, and available at most stores. It’s not too difficult to cut either.
I had some hidden track on a previous layout and it was always a test of nerves getting a train through switches. The big question was always where is the train. My track ran behind a backdrop so I could reach over the top to rerail a car, but it was always a pain to do. I rigged some mirrors over the track at about a 45 degree angle so I could see what was happening behind the backdrop, but everything you see in a mirror is reversed—the farest track away was now the closest.
I’d stay away from too much hidden track unless you have very easy access.
I have two hidden switches and they work every time.
Before I started my current layout I tested everything that was available and RealTrax was the hands down winner in the switch department.
RealTrax is available as O-72 and MTH will have O-82 track soon. This means that switches will follow.
*** Teal
I would recomend Ross switches with DZ-1000 controllers. Very reliable and smooth for great tracking.
I would also suggest Ross Turnouts. I have three hidden turnouts and as with all the turnouts on my layout, they too are Ross. I use NJI switch motors with them and have them wired for non-derailing. I have never have a problem with them in 8 years of running. John