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Trying to decide on what code track to use. I was thinking code 83 for the main line and then code 70 for the yards and other spurs. Does this sound right or am I way off. The less used tracks are a smaller code? And how would I connect two different codes? Any help would be great before I spend $400.00 bucks on track and turnouts. Also what type of turnouts are recommended? If it is any help I am modeling the Lehigh Valley in the 1960's and my yard is at Huber (Ashley) coal breaker. Thanks for the help..
Welcome aboard. You are correct, smaller track sizes are generally used for things like industrial spurs and yards. Cose 83 for mainline tracks and code 70 for other tracks would be about right. You can join the two sizes by using specially made transition joiners. It's also common to use a regular joiner with one end flattened and solder the two joints together.
Turnouts, properly called switches, vary a lot in price and quality. Most modelers agree that Walthers/Shimihara are the best quality switches but they are expensive and not alws in stock. Peco switches are also good quality but you should make sure you get the insulfrog variety if you are going to run DCC. Atlas switch range from pretty bad to very good. You should avoid the snap switch types if at all possible. The Atlas Super Track code 83 switches are a good compromise between price and quality. You should #6 switches or larger, if you have the room, since larger radius switches will operate more smoothly and reliably. Micro Engineering and Kato also make switches that generally work well but at a higher price point. They are all worth investigating before you make a purchase.
