So i finally decided to build a small operating layout. I’ve been squirreling away many items for it’s construction. As i am a big fan of switchers, I would like a yard with lots of automatic switches. I have about a 50/50 split of engines that are o/o27. I base that on Engines that won’t navigate o gauge switches. Like the 1665 switchers from 46’. Well thats not a big problem for me as i still have plenty to run. I have had some issues with switches, not being able to get them to trip reliably. Ive sold all i have and am going to buy new. I also have an equal split of O/O-27 track. Are 1122 O gauge switches as reliable and easy to work with as the O22? Any other issues i would run into if i chose O-27. The cost element is tempting also as the 1122 are way more economical. As far as a reverse the only locos i own that won’t take 27" curves are a 250e Hiawatha and a 726 Berk, I probably wouldn’t operate those anyway. All opinions appreciated. Thanks, and happy holidays.
The 1122/1122E is not nearly as versatile as the 022. No fixed voltage provision(partially destructive field modification is possible), poor to no direction indication at controller, the switch coils are activated/on(the 022’s switch off once thrown) whenever a train is on the control rails. Even with all this, they are reliable.
The 726 will run on O-27.
Rob
Main line [or lines] O and wider switches. Any other sections or loops, go with the 027. You can get 027 type switches in wider radius [045] and mates to the 027 track. Might do that. Now I like to use 072 but some do not have the room. Make use of what you have.
I have pre & post war Lionel. 1666,224E,736,675,1655,2046. all run on O27, 1121 and 1024 switche and tube track. I also have a MTH RK M1a that runs fine on these.
IMO, both are fine. Of course O is more expensive, but nothing wrong with 027 either. It primarily depends upon how much room is available, and of course what you want to spend or can afford. Ultimately will probably end up in O.
the o27 track is closer to scale height than O. I changed my 1122’s to ross switches. they are much more reliable and mate right up to o27 type track with just adapter pins, the height is almost the same.(about 1/32 difference). I was able to get the ross stuff on ebay for just about the same price as good condition 1122’s. they are quieter and smoother and come in many different radii.
I have all 027 - I’ve had just O – but pre-war. My experiences with both types of switches echos what Rob mentioned about flexibility. I’m currently ‘leaning’ back toward simplicity with manual 027 switches.
Another consideration: What are you going to be running on it? I had to go O27 to use Marx switches that would accomodate Marx and AF locomotives that couldn’t make it through Lionel switches (any Lionel switch). So switch compatibility can be an issue.
I use primarily O34, O42 and O54 track, all O27 profile. I have very few O27 curves on my layout.
I use both 027 and O gauge track but not on the same line, also use GarGraves track and switches. Replaced my defective Lionel 6-23010 switches with GarGraves 042 switches and have no problems with switches acting up!!! I prefer the post war 022 switches to modern Lionel O gauge switches.
GarGraves and Ross switches will mate up to 027 with only adapter pins needed, need to be shimmed underneath for use with O gauge tubular track.
Lee F.
I’m using a combination of Lionel and K-Line 027 track, using 072 and 054 curves. The K-Line switches I am using are all the newer design, with a low-profile switch motor. I run scale 3 rail equipment, and have no problems running long cars like 21" K-Line Bombardier commuter cars, Atlas Articulated Autoracks, and MTH I-beam flatcars through the switches. The bright red and green switch position indicators are every easy to see, and make spotting switch positions simple.
Geno
Dave, I’m a big fan of the Marx switches too. And O34 curves. My kids and I were playing trains on the basement floor and we used the Marx switches. Ran everything from a modern Lionel GP-9 to an Am. Flyer 1218. No problems at all thru the Marx switches. Fun stuff.
Never thought of the Marx switches. Anyway I bought a pair of O22’s today. Am i really stupid or is the whole mess complicated. The one goes crazy and how do you get power through the Y without a train?I wish i would have bought a manual.
Thnks, you are the man! I hope it answers my questions. Especially why it goes haywire.
Pay close attention to the placement of the fiber track pins. This is likely the issue.
Rob