I’m ready to order some Peco code 83 turnouts, which is best for a DCC layout,elctrofrog or insulfrog ?
They seem to come with good instructions for DCC.
I am using e/frog with DC and so far so good. I have wired the frogs w/out making the various changes and all OK at the moment.
Chris
My suggestion would be that you get one of each, install them, and then decide which you prefer. On the Cochise & Western Model Railroad Club’s HO scale layout we use insulfrog with no problems. Electrofrog turnouts require more wiring and a relay to reverse the frog’s polarity, according to the Peco instructions.
Willist,
Insulfrog turnouts have an unpowered spot (the frog) right in the middle of the turnout. If you plan on running long engines, or multiple engines, it should not be a problem. I have an Athearn Hustler with a DCC decoder. It has only 4 wheels and a tiny wheelbase. I want it to make it through EVERY turnout without “the hand of God” helping it. I want electrofrog turnouts because of this. The extra wiring is not significant, especially when you consider that you will never have to worry about your trains dying in the middle of every switch.
Your track is the foundation of your layout. If you skimp a little now, you will pay for it later.
Mark C.