Question of compatibility for the experts

Yes.  At least the J-1e Hudson ran ok on Atlas track (before I converted it to scale flanges).

Todd  - One last check - what version is your Atlas O scale 2 rail track?  Recent AtlasO track is made in China (brown ties) and comes in 36, 40.5. 45, 49.5. and 54" radius curves.  If your MTH Hudson can handle O-72 3 rail curves (nominally 36" radius) and you have the newer Atlas O track you should be good to go.  However If your track is 1970/80's vintage Atlas-Roco (black ties made in Austria) the curved sections were 24" radius - probable too tight for a scale length Hudson.  

Hi Ed, I have all newer Atlas, not the 70's/80's stuff. It is all 49.5 radius. Looks just like their HO stuff, but of course bigger

Next to their 3 rail stuff it looks so tiny (profile wise). I really wanted to purchase a newer PS3 steam loco from MTH with all the latest sounds and with Proto-Scale 3-2 3-rail/2-rail conversion capabilities, but I see that the pickings are very slim if you are trying to get one with scale wheels, so that's why I am asking about using Hi-Rail wheels on this track. Thanks.

I'd check to see if the hi-rail wheel pizza cutter flanges hit the ties, my guess is they probably will.

Why not use Atlas flex track. Approx 40" and easy to bend.

Dick

The flange and rail "code" (heights)  would need checking. 

Roundsaturn31 posted:

Hi guys, I have some Atlas O scale two rail track and am thinking of making a small loop around my home office. Very simple, nothing fancy.

QUESTION- will an MTH Proto-Scale 3-2 3-rail/2-rail conversion capable locomotive with Hi-Rail wheels run on this track? I don't plan to have any switches, just a loop around the office...I ask because this track looks so small compared to Atlas 3 rail.

 

Thank you,

Todd

Not without a center rail if yours is still un-converted. The 2-rail conversion kits have scale wheels.

I replied in a video I posted about diesels not working because of the larger flanges. So with the steamers, it will depend on the size of their flanges and if they are a dead short. Check all the wheels for shorting not just the main drivers. I believe just certain models were modified to tie the outside flanges for better 3 rail performance?

Thanks guys for the info. Will let you know the decision and will post pictures...

Ross and GG will make two rail track on special order.  Their taller rail will clear all three rail wheels.  Ross sub roadbed will make for an excellent and quieter presentation.

Some 3 rail flanges will clear new Atlas, some will not.  No hard fast standard.

IMO, Ross sectional curve track is preferred.   Very stable for pushing together.  Resists twisting/deforming better than GG.