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Hi Folks -

 

I'm new to this forum and have only recently gotten back into O-gauge trains.  I haven't pursued them since I was a teenager. 

 

I have the following equipment:

 

Lionel

Steam - 1130

Steam - 2026

Steam - 2046

Diesel - 6-8659

Diesel - 6-8763

Switcher - 628

 

Williams

Steam 40501/3380

 

Marx

Steam - 333

Steam - 666

Steam - 1666

Diesel - 70-Ton

 

I'm seeking out some track switches.  I have several O27 Lionel switches, but they're constantly derailing my rolling stock.

 

This may be a dumb question, so I apologize in advance -- Is there such a thing as O-31 switches? (I know there exist larger radius switches, such as O-54.)

 

If so, I would be grateful if anyone could provide part numbers.  I'm using the legacy O-31 3-rail track.

 

Thanks kindly.

Original Post

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LM,

   1st lets get this conversation into reality, are you using FasTrack, or Conventional

Tubular, you need to tell us exactly which track you are running, so we can advise you as to which switches to purchase.  If you are running FasTrack the 031 switches have

not arrived in the US for sale yet.  If you are using O gauge Lionel Conventional Tubular, the O gauge, 022 switches are the switches you are probably looking to purchase.  If you are using 027 track you will need the transition O gauge track, for the O Gauge switches to mate up properly height wise with your 027 track.  You need to identify exactly which track you plan to run with, then we can help you further.

PCRR/Dave

Originally Posted by JohnS:

as mentioned in the first post, Ross switches come in almost any diameter you want. they are the best as far as reliability and super smooth running. they are made in the USA and will mate to any track system you might choose. 

I'm going to have to check out the Ross switches for future purchases. I don't see myself sticking with the conventional tubular stuff in the long term.  Thanks for the info!

Originally Posted by Pine Creek Railroad:

LM,

   1st lets get this conversation into reality, are you using FasTrack, or Conventional

Tubular, you need to tell us exactly which track you are running, so we can advise you as to which switches to purchase.  If you are running FasTrack the 031 switches have

not arrived in the US for sale yet.  If you are using O gauge Lionel Conventional Tubular, the O gauge, 022 switches are the switches you are probably looking to purchase.  If you are using 027 track you will need the transition O gauge track, for the O Gauge switches to mate up properly height wise with your 027 track.  You need to identify exactly which track you plan to run with, then we can help you further.

PCRR/Dave

Hi Dave - Apologies if I wasn't clear. Not fluent in the correct vernacular. It would be the conventional tubular. Per your guidance, I was able to pursue the 022 switches.

 

I know enough that I don't use the O-27 stuff.  It's flimsy and derails all of my coaches.

 

Thanks!

Originally Posted by Larry3railtrains:

Lionel Mrx  - what you describeois Lionel "O" gauge Tinplate track, still being made but basically superseded by Lionel FASTRACK.

 

Thay have 0-31 Switches, either current production or the postwar  # 0-22 which are supposed to be better.  There is also RMT (EX K-Line) 0-31 snap track switches.

 

Originally Posted by mlavender480:
You could use Lionel #022 (remote control) or #042 (manual) switches, both are O31 diameter.

Thanks guys. I appreciate the guidance. With your guidance and Dave's, I was able to get the correct switches. 

 

My apologies if I wasn't clear. I'm still learning the right jargon.

LM,

   Never apologize unless to a friend and you really mean it.  Glad we could help a little.  If you purchased the 022's fine, I would also suggest you look at the RMT 031

Super Snap Switches, these old K-line type low voltage switches, were some of the best tubular switches ever made, and function perfectly 99% of the time.  The 022's take a lot of power to run, if you stay with them, replace the bulbs in the controllers and switch housing, with LED's, especially if you plan to run them with regular track power.  When you are ready for DCS & Legacy let us know, and we will help you down that road.

PCRR/Dave

 

Final DCS Pine Creek Railway layout 020

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  • Final DCS Pine Creek Railway layout 020
Last edited by Pine Creek Railroad

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