Should I use a Wye or Switch

Doug, try Ross Custom Switches, they have just about anything you may need.

Jack

Hi Doug:

Have you posted pictures of your layout, especially the helix, in another thread? If not would you mind taking a few to share when you get the time? Is the curve on the helix 054?

I also use tubular track and enjoy the look.

All the best,

Paul

Paul,

I have construction pictures in my Blog in the J&C Studios Archive.  Just click on "My Blog"  in my last post above,  then go to "Double Helix Construction pictures.  I'm using 054 tube track for the down side and 0 60 Fast track for the up loops.

Hope you enjoy the pictures,

Doug

Boomer, I would go with the switch.  Coming off the legs of the wye you may be creating an ess curve that you might regret later.

Rick

Looks like you have space for O72 switches, that would be my choice.

You bet, looks good for 072 switch.

PCRR/Dave

Thanks for your advice everyone,  guess I'll start shopping for a couple 0-72 switches.

Boomer

That looks like a place where traditional tinplate switches like an O-54 or O-72 are not good choices.  They take up too much width and create abrupt S curves.

It does look like a good place for a Ross #4 tinplate switch.  Numbered switches are only curved between the points and the frog and have a straight angle on the departing route from the frog on.  That allows for closer parallel tracks and provides a straight segment between reverse curves.

Just a thought, but could you use a 072/054 curve switch?

Ted,  That's a good suggestion, I just looked at the #4 switch and have sent an e- mail off to Ross with some questions.

Thanks,    Doug

Those Ross tinplate switches definitely look better from a geometric standpoint for closer parallel tracks, although they are spendy at $120 each. I once cut down an O22 switch (O31 curve) to make closer parallel tracks. I might do the same with an O72 switch someday. A standard O72 switch and curve gives 5.5" spacing for parallel track.