Turnouts

[unittrain]

I'm in the process of laying track on my modules and I'm using ME code 55 flex-track. I need some left-hand turnouts
and was wondering which brand is the best to go with for code 55 turnouts. The ME turnouts only come in #6's
and the Peco is a little pricey but looks good. I've been thinking of Atlas also. Any suggestions?
Thanks

[Zox]

One thing to keep in mind is that the Peco "Code 55" turnouts are really Code 80 rail, cleverly made to look like Code 55. You can use them, and Peco switches are definitely a good product, but you'll have to be a little creative in joining and leveling them to the M-E track.

[Caleb Austin]

I would go with Atlas C55. It connects flawlessly with the ME track.

It's what I did here.


Oh and the peco tie spacing does not match the ME tracks ties.

[ednadolski]

I like the Atlas #7's and they are DCC friendly.  Atlas also has a #10 now, plus a curved turnout in the works IIRC.

With any turnout: check with an NMRA gauge, and lightly file the toes of the points if needed.

[bicknell]

Build your own.  http://www.handlaidtrack.com/

ME Code 55 rail, any size you want.  Look great!

[ednadolski]

Build your own.  http://www.handlaidtrack.com/

ME Code 55 rail, any size you want.  Look great!

You don't need expensive fixtures to handlay turnouts:  http://www.fourthray.com/Peter/Articles/Trackwork/TurnoutsScratchbuild.htm

Here is a WIP shot:

[inkaneer]

I'm in the process of laying track on my modules and I'm using ME code 55 flex-track. I need some left-hand turnouts
and was wondering which brand is the best to go with for code 55 turnouts. The ME turnouts only come in #6's
and the Peco is a little pricey but looks good. I've been thinking of Atlas also. Any suggestions?
Thanks

You said, "...modules"  Are these Ntrak modules?  I ask this because Ntrak has some limitations on what can be used as far as turnouts. No Atlas turnouts are approved but Peco code 55 are.  Also If they are Ntrak modules you can use ME code 55 but you must revert back to Atlas code 80 at the module ends to accept the Atlas sectional track used as a joiner track.  Now your local Ntrak club may allow some deviation from the standard but if you want to take these modules to a National or even regional get together then I suggest adherring to the standards.  Again, this is "IF" these are Ntrak modules.  If not, then forget this post and do as you wish.

[unittrain]

Thanks for the input I just purchased an Atlas #10 left hand turnout. I hope to do some more track laying during
a few of my upcomming days off