can any one tell me the diffrence between the atlas code 80 n scale #6 standard and a custom line switch from atlas
An Atlas (or any other maker’s) #6 switch has a frog angle defined as 1 unit lateral separation for each 6 units of distance along the straight track through the switch. For many years, #6 was considered to be the standard switch, and most published track plans were designed on that basis.
From a practical standpoint in HO, if you draw parallel track centerlines two inches apart and strike a diagonal between them that covers twelve inches on the original centerline (actual length of diagonal will be more than twelve inches) you could use two #6 switches and some straight sectional track to build a crossover on those centerlines. The distance between the points would be greater (sixteen to seventeen inches) because of the curves in the switches themselves.
Hope this helps.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
I do not understand your question. An Atlas #6 is as “standard” as they get commercially. I does differ slightly from other manufacturers, but they could make no more claim to being the “standard”.
Peco switches, up until recently, were known for replicating the UK style where the diverging route is essentially fully curved along its length. The N. American configuration is for the points rails to curve just enough to meet the frog angle head-on, and then to continue that angle until the rails end for that turnout.
Are you asking for the differences between a #4, 4.5, 5, 6,and so on? Or is it the differences between a Microengineering and Walthers/Shinohara?