Definitive Answer - Are Lionel Lionel 6‑23010 and 6‑23011 turn-outs to be trusted, and if not what substitutes?

They have a reputation for having issues but I have used them for many years without an issue.  They can be delicate, particulalrly the small track extension pieces, but once mounted they have been fine for me.  I bought them when they were new and I didn't realize they were "bad" before reading it here.  Take what you read on the internet with more than one grain of salt.  Things err on the side of the dramatic here.

If i didn't have them already I wouldn't rush out to buy them today because competition has created other solutions for a small footprint switch track, but if I had them I would continue to use them and if they could be had cheap I would buy them.  Hope this helps and happy new year.

yep, some are finicky and require adjusting and/or tuning. The what and how-to's can be found. The modern answer is a Ross Custom Switch #'s 105 & 106.

You would have to cut them to fit into this track plan. More money, no issues.

Yes they can be trusted. Just in case service is needed take the under side screws out so the top cover can be taken off without removing the switch. Also Ross makes a drop in tinplate switch.

Rod Miller