John Degnan wrote:
>>>----- Original Message -----
>>>From: "B.T.S. - Bill & Diane Wade" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
>
>
>>Those of us HO scale modelers who have been modeling in HO for nearly 50
>>years have used Atlas code 100 in the past because that was about all
>>that was available, and we had no problems with Atlas or AHM switches.
>>My last N&W layout was all code 100 because code 83 stuff had not been
>>offered at the time and code 70 was too small for representing N&W
>>mainline trackage.... in my opinion. Of course, opinions are like
>>certain body parts - everyone has one.
>
>
> Not calling you old or anything like that, but you inadvertently supported
> my arguement... sort of a "that was then, this is now" sort of thing. I was
> referring to modelers (and layouts) of today, not those of 50 years ago.
'That was then, and then is now' is more the case. Many of today's HO
layouts are still being built with code 100 as too many folks do not
grasp the reasoning for smaller rail or want the hassle. In addition to
having sold model trains for 27 years, we have visited way too many
layouts while attending the many conventions and shows... most modleres
and most layouts use code 100, and there are still a lot of Atlas
products in play.
And on my next HO layout, Atlas will be featured more than any other
because it is dependable.
Again, you have your opinion and I have mine. NEITHER can be considered
the current standard of the world nor will we convert each other.
>>Over the years, I have experienced fewer operational problems with Atlas
>>switches than with Shinohara - which was the top of the line in the
>>1970-80s. As scenery progressed, Atlas switch machines were removed and
>>Kemtron were installed under the layout.
>>
>>Of course, my collection of PFM, Akane, Overland, Sunset, etc, brass
>>locos range in age from 5 years to 47 years old, so they might not be
>>considered 'scale' based upon the form this discussion has taken.
>
>
> I wouldn't advise you to try and run any of the nicer, long-wheel-base steam
> locos on those Atlas turnouts... every single one of my Sunset brass steam
> locos derailed at just the thought of an Atlas turnout on my old layout...
> no matter what # the turnout was. I was forced by this to upgrade to
> Shinohara... which I know have their own issues... but at least my locos did
> not derail on them. and since models of today are far more accurate than
> those of olde, and therefore probably less forgiving (having less play or
> slop in the drivers) than those of olde, I feel safe in betting that most
> larger steam locos will not happily traverse most Atlas snap-switches.
Atlas offers two lines of switches.... #4 snap switches and #4 & #6
Customline..... UP 4-8-8-4, ATSF 4-8-4, ATSF 2-10-4, PRR 4-4-4-4, N&W
2-8-8-2s, 2-6-6-4s, 4-8-4s, 4-8-2s, and many others all worked well on
the ATLAS #6 Customlines in my last layout. Snap Switches are good for
small diesels and that is about all. Could be the way the trackwork
were installed has something to do with performance.
As for accuracy on newer locos, putting lagging clamps on top of the
boiler or cab interior details does not have a lot to do with
performance. Laterial motion standards have not changed - my new locos
and my old ones are about the same. Putting can motors in place of open
frames do not help tracking. Basically, it is how the track is installed
that is the major consideration.
Ahhh, Sunset. My 20+ Sunset locos have more operational challenges than
any of the others. May have something to do with the lowest-bidder
syndrome.
But to tie this to S Scale, since it is an S Scale list, it is too bad
that Atlas does not offer their Customline switches in S Scale. I doubt
it will ever happen, but it would be good for the S Scalers.
Take care
Bill
--
============== Scale Model Railroad Products ================
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