Micro Engineering Code 83 #6 Turnout

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I know that a lot of threads have been written about Micro Engineering turnouts on this forum, but I want to verify somethere here before I purchase a couple.

I need to insert two #6 turnouts to form a crossover on my double mainline which uses Atlas Code 83 flex track. I would just purchase another pair of Atlas turnouts (I have a bunch on my layout already), but MB Klein has the Micro Engineering turnouts on sale, and I am tempted to try them because I hear good things about them.

But, I have heard that, in spite of being Code 83, the Micro Engineering turnouts need to be shimmed to match the profile of Atlas Code 83 flex track. True or false?

Thanks.

Rich

2

The ties are thicker on the Atlas track, so the top of the rail sits higher. Also, the exact profile of the rail is not exactly the same. Shimming the height is no big deal. Matching the top and inside edge of the rail is the key. Some soldering of the rails to hold them in position is not a bad idea.

–Randy