Dave,
In this hobby, we all make some good decisions and some.....not so good. When I got back into this hobby, my original intention was to get my childhood stuff back running. It's morphed into way more than that now (which is a good thing). But one of the vestiges of those early efforts was using my original 027 track (mistake on many levels). I corrected my early problems by replacing the old track with brand new and modifying it. And using big curves. But I stuck with the switches (bad decision). I've modified them for fixed voltage and put in a capacitor system to eliminate the buzz. I also periodically replace rough riding switches with smoother ones. So, they work well, but...they are still 027 curves in the switch and that has been a problem which I just have to deal with because at this point, going to something else would require ripping out my layout and starting over. Not something I'm going to want to do anytime soon. So, bottom line, I have to deal with those switches. I've got a ton of engines now.....I just don't run any big engines through the switches. For switching work, I've got a bunch of MTH diesel and steam switchers that will make it through back to back 027s.
I'm not going to get into tinplate in any big way. But if I can find some stuff that will make it through my switches in a reasonable fashion, I'll do that. If it's going to be a major issue, I won't bother. Seems like I'll have to pick and choose.
Roger
