so...V2.0 proved to be to small, AND I am sick and tired of Atlas switches, I am abut to start 3.0, I just got a pair of 4x8 sheets of foam, and I am about to buy Peco switches....
I've got atlas switches all over my layout, and never again, I too don't like em as much as the two Pecos.
I'm not trying to be a smart aleck, but since you are starting over from scratch, have you even considered Unitrack? It has been totally trouble free for me since rejoining the hobby.
When I lived in NY my club’s N scale layout used Peco track. It was very reliable. Our trains ran without any issues however on my home layout I use Unitrack. I prefer sectional to flex track and not having to ballast Unitrack is a huge plus for me.
I've been using Peco since the late 1970's. In that time, I can only recall replacing one on a long ago layout.
the Atlas switches made in China have been more miss than hit, and I have seen metal parts break, Peco works better
Well, that's the first time I've heard that critique! Very diplomatic, I might add. I think I'd find a way to half-bury it or something. But if it will be remotely controlled, Unitrack's electrical scheme for doing so is different than conventional Atlas- or tortoise-type machines, and might not integrate well with your existing switch controls. As they say, "Different horses for different courses."
Bremner, These 36 inch radius code 80 Peco switches, were recommended for the mainline in the NTrak manual back in the 80s and are a solid switch/turnout choice. - Tonkphilip
I decided on them because they are roughly the same size as an Atlas #6 and do not need a ground throw, getting the electrafrogs
I will stick with the Unitrack for my N scale DC. Back in the '70s the "club" used atlas. I was the electrician and only had one engine. The rest had collections of O gauge with passenger cars. I didn't like the Atlas tracks. Now I'm back to trying to switch over to HO DCC and still haven't decided what track to use. Kato doesn't have much in HO, so may go to Peco, at least for switches.
copy/pasta from my blog... Oh boy, where do I start? After operating Playa Desnuda V2.0, I quickly realized that I hated the design, it was too small and a 6 car train overwhelmed it. I also got frustrated with the lack of overall quality of Atlas switches, and some mediocre soldering by your’s truly. Life also got in the way, I have been putting off a much needed bathroom remodel until I got the funds, and right now, my new tub, greenboard and tile is sitting in the garage. Since I paid to have a delivery, I had them through in a pair of two inch thick 4×8’s of pink foam. My ex is a realtor and sold a home in town, the husband was an N Scaler and currently has dementia. I was given all of his structures, scenery, locomotives and cars. Unfortunately, most of the rolling stock is train set quality and too modern for me, I am only keeping about a dozen cars, some streetlights and the structures. Now here comes the “What the hell am I thinking?” moment…there is an Atlas Viaduct kit….I am thinking about incorporating it into the new layout, smoothing it out to be concrete.
Why a duck? Why not a chicken? I am always looking to do something different, but it is Southern California and a branch...
