Are all #4's approximately the same across manufacturers? If so, I've run 6 axles all the time across Atlas #4's with no issues.
If you really look at the difference, the 280 and the 140 are the same. It’s the length is the difference. Far what I have read. These 30 degree switches are not good to use for normal train running. This whole thing with NMRA using numbers for switches. And their degree angles are measured from a different point of the turnouts. Versus what Tomix is using. I see someone in Kato has made this translation to the NMRA. I am still searching for this on Tomix. The worse thing that I might experience is tremendously wide overhang and metal to metal noise from the track and wheels. Hmm hopefully I will hear from someone who has tried using six axles over the Tomix 280/140-30’s. Though as of now I have only four six axle locomotives. I might want to go back and use the previous shorter yard design that came out a little bit higher up as before.Thanks Hardcoaler for the side by side.
The big difference I see between a #4 turnout and the 30 degree turnout on the Tomix is the #4’s turn back to the direction of the track. Where Tomix goes in the other direction. I can see a “possible issue” with the #4. Thanks MK for your experience with the #4. Yes they look similar.
No problem. I run N- and T-Trak at my club and shows but at home I'm all Atlas #4's (manual) only because it's not a big layout. 3' x 5.5' doesn't afford me to have #6 turnouts. Also, usually when you run across turnouts you usually slow down your train. Unless you're running an Acela.
A good choice. For me, operational reliability is paramount. My track plan even calls for 'bashing a Kato Deck Girder Bridge so that I can fit a Kato No. 6 turnout on a portion of it. I want No. 6 turnouts on the mainline with no exceptions, then will use No. 4s beyond in the yard and industrial spurs.