Track replacement question

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi Guys

I have a couple turnouts that I want to replace and I usually use Atlas HO Code 83 manual snap switches but I am finding atlas hard to find at the moment. Are you guys aware of any other brand that I could use in its place that would be the same as the snap switch.

Thanks again

Jeremy

2

Check out this link. Disruption in Atlas track

3

Thanks for the link I know about the Atlas track not being available at the moment or is in low supply for some that’s why I am trying to find another brand that will work with my existing track.

4

Seems like flex track is the only thing limited at the moment. DUnno about your shop, but Klein (modeltrainstuff.com) has plenty of Atlas turnouts of all sorts in stock and no restrictions on ordering.

–Randy

5

LION thinks that Atlas Flex Tracks is too expensive. But then him buys code 100 and him bought Model Power track from Trainworld. Much better price, providing of course you need a full box of 100 pieces.

ROAR

6

If you’re feeling adventurous, this strikes me as a good chance to try handlaying the necessary turnouts. It can’t be very difficult if this arthritic old coot can do it.

Tools:

  1. Spiking pliers.
  2. Rail cutter.
  3. Large mill file (Wimpy little needle files are harder to control and take forever.)
  4. Gauges - NMRA gauge plus two three-point gauges.
  5. Razor saw.
  6. Heavy-duty soldering tool.
  7. Drill, with small-diameter bit(s).

Materials:

  1. Raw rail, from any source (I have used rail from damaged flex track, sectional track and some purchased as stick rail from Shinohara’s Tokyo supplier.)
  2. Tie stock. I use medium-hard balsa. Thickness appropriate to your situation.
  3. Wire nails, small flathead (brass if you can find them, but steel will do.)
  4. PC experiment board (the kind with a gazillion holes in it. I slice it up for throwbars.)
  5. brass wire (point-to-throw-rod pivots.)
  6. Solder - 60/40 or 63/37 electrical/electronic solder, not the lead-free wonders.
  7. Flux - non-acid liquid or paste.

Technique:

Go to the SEARCH box and enter “you called” and “tomikawaTT” for a 2007 post detailing my construction method.

Try it. You might like it.

Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - on hand-laid specialwork.

7

Since it seems no one else has read your QUESTION in submitting their reply, Here 'tis: No, there is no one for one replacement for an ATLAS snap switch. They are made to substitute for a 2/3 18" radius curve on the divergving route, with a curved path thru the frog. No other turnout, to my knowledge, is so configured. Even the ATLAS Custom Line #4 (closer to a #4.5) will not equate to a snap switch on line. **Aside to my compatriots on line: Answer the OP’s question; then pontificate, if you must. JWH

8

What GM said regarding replacements for a snap switch. Have you tried NHS hobbies or MB Klein?

9

This is of no use to someone who is already committed to using Code 83, as our OP stated he is in his first sentence.

Crandell

10

Jeremy,

Buy a couple of already constructed Fast Tracks turnouts off eBay. They have live frogs (vs. insulated frogs, like the Atlas) but they will both look and operate much better than the Atlas turnouts. I’ve bought them off eBay and they come already assembled, painted and wired. All you need is a Caboose Industries 222S ground throw, which is very easy to wire up.

Peco or Walthers/Shinohara would be another (and somewhat better) choice to the Atlas Snap track. . All three make curved turnouts, as well.

Tom

11

But no other brand is a DIRECT replacement for an Atlas Snap switch. Trackwork must be modified to use any other brand once you have put an Atlas in place, and Jeremy is asking for a DIRECT replacement.

12

Jeremy

Could you just buy these switches and then add the $5.00 snap part when they become available?

http://www.pacific-western-rail.com/product_search.php?f_Manufacturers[]=150&f_ProductTypes=null&f_Keywords=Code+83&InStock=1

Brent[C):-)]

13

Did you happen to try these folks?: http://www.nhshobbies.com/category-s/56.htm?searching=Y&sort=13&cat=56&show=30&page=2

14

Thanks for all the tips guys [Y]

Yeah I was kind of hoping for a direct replacement for the snap switch. I kind of figured that I wouldnt be able to find a exact replacement from a company other then Atlas. I will look into some of the places you fellas gave me. Again guys thanks for all the suggestions.

Handlaying does look interesting though [8D]

15

Handlaying is easier then it looks.