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Well, I discovered that Fastrack O-60 switches don't fit in a loop when constructing a "o_" siding.

 

So instead, I want to make a passing siding along the straightaway of my mainline using one left- and one right-hand O-60 switches.

__________________________

    \___________________/

 

 

I have to buy another switch, and while at the store, will I need to pick up any odd-sized sections of straight track for the passing siding to connect properly?

 

Thanks,

Bill

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Let me ask my question a different way. Is there a Website or book (besides the Lionel Fastrack Book by R. Schleicher) that that diagrams track sections needed for various switch configuarations? I really don't want to buy a computer program just to make a simple layout.

 

The layout is two separate long ovals, outer loop 60" radius and the inner loop 48".

I want to do a passing siding on the outer loop like this:

___________________________   or this \_______________________/

    \____________________/                  .. \______________________/

 

Within the 48" loop I would like to add a reverse loop and a couple of sidings. I would like to use O-60 switches, but don't know how they will connect from one side of the 48" oval to the other. Fastrack seems so much more complicated than good old O-31 tubular track and switches.

 

Thanks,

Bill

Hi Patrick,

 

Thank you for the track diagram. That is pretty much what I have in mind.

My table top is 6' x 16'. Both the 60 and 48 ovals have ten straights or 120" down each straightaway. I would prefer the outer passing siding come off the curve to avoid the "S" but I don't know how to make the curve section of the O-60 switch fit into the curve correctly. I understand that with O-36 switches this is not a geometric problem, but since I am making a complete transition from tubular track to Fastrack, I would like to use O-60 switches.

 

I have two principal RailKing buildings to include in the operational design: the 30-9014 Passenger Station and the 30-90267 Single Engine Shed, plus various other smaller structures.

 

Thanks for sharing your expertise. I've played with Lionel trains for 50 years but Fastrack is all new to me!

 

Bill

Bill,

 

I don't know if you have or plan to have DCS on your layout but if it was me, I'd save the difference between O72 command and O72 remote switches and put it towards something else.  It will add up fast.  I believe you can control 10 switches and 10 accessories from a $100 AIU.  Also, shop around.  Wild Bill's in Clinton Twp., Michigan has great prices on FasTrack.  There may be some other places that have better prices.  Even $10 per switch can add up in a hurry.

 

Regards,

Eric S.

Saline, MI

Hi Eric,

I plan to keep the layout simple, like Patrick's diagram above, with perhaps only 4 or 5 switches. I know the cost can add up quickly. I have four TMCC and one Legacy locomotives with TMCC control, so I am pretty well committed to Lionel. The passing siding on the outer loop will enable me to operate two of those trains on that one loop.  BTW, my locos are Erie, B&O, and Penna because those are the railroads that operated in my city during my youth. I have limited my purchases to those road names which helps me save money. 

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