O gauge tubular o42 reverse loops compatible with fasttrack o36 switches???

orfedjOGR Forum Member

I have a pretty simple layout comprised of two reverse loops on 4x8s on opposite ends of the basement. They are connected by several feet of straight away and it's all comprised of fasttrack. It's loud and I'm not really impressed with fasttrack (other than the switches).

I bought some o42 tubular track and I was wondering if could still use the fasttrack switches (o36) and the o42 together (with adapters) and be able to complete my loops correctly.

In theory, since 42 is greater than 36 by a difference of 6, I think I would just need to add two 3" straights in between the outer curve and the switches. However, I'm no layout pro, so I wanted to consult the veterans here with all the expertise!

Thanks

12/2/207:29 AM

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ADCX RobOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

@orfedj posted:

In theory, since 42 is greater than 36 by a difference of 6, I think I would just need to add two 3" straights in between the outer curve and the switches. However, I'm no layout pro, so I wanted to consult the veterans here with all the expertise!

Your theory is solid... O36 FasTrack is 15" radius, O-42 is 20.17" radius, so you will have to shuffle your math a little is all.

12/2/207:49 AM

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PRR1950OGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I have attached 2 variations of what you want to do, both created in SCARM (a free to try track design software for Windows computers only), that start with a FT O36 Command Control switch. One uses Menards track and the other uses Ross track so that you can see that which tubular track you use will make a difference in what you need. Neither variety closes the loop completely without requiring some cutting and/or bending, but both look doable with some effort.

Chuck