Can I use my manual B’Mann turnouts outside mated to brass track (USAT)? The rails are non-magnetic and appear to be stainless steel, but I think they are nickeled brass
I cut one apart to put some gaps in the rails. It’s nickel-plated zamac.
John Le Forestier said:
I cut one apart to put some gaps in the rails. It’s nickel-plated zamac.
You are quite right. I have a couple outside for the last couple of months with no rust or ill effects.
Not knowing the cost differences between Bachmann’s turnouts and USA. Aristo, PIKO,and LGB, are Bachmann’s turnouts considerably cheaper, better in quality or both, compared to the “Big Four” for outside use?
Thanks.
Wendell
In my opinion they have recently become overpriced for the quality. Couple years ago they were about $20-$25, even as low as $15.00. Now they run as high as $40.00. They have no switchstand, but a simple plastic mech built into the hollow throwbar. I like it. They won’t rust. You would have some difficulties connecting them to standard brass rail; you’d have to cut off three cast-on track connectors, then make your regilar fishplates fit. The rail contour is different, but compatible with a bit of effort. Bachmann switches are nickel in color; I would expect this plating to wear off eventually, and then you’d have the zamac color. Zamac oxidizes and can become quite brittle with age. At 40.00 apiece for the zamac, I’d recommend sticking with the brass switches, perhaps 2nd hand, which can be got for 20-30 each. My 2c.
John,
I bought some used Aristocraft switches and find the B’mann switches to be more reliable. The last new B’mann switches I bought I got off eBay new for $26 USD apiece. I paid more than that for the used Aristocraft switches. Yes they need a little modification to mate with my USA Trains track, but the work well.
I’d worry about corrosion with the zamac if there was a lot of moisture, or something off a neutral ph in the soil around it.
Greg
I also have paid $26.00 for them on occasion, but personally I wouldn’t pay any more than that, I own 15-16 of the B’mann switches, and I do like their operating characteristics. I use them both indoors and out, in both cases for temporary setups, and in both cases in conjunction with B’mann tinplate track.
I’m not a big fan of the Aristo switches either… I admit to using them, tho’. I remove the Aristo throw mechanisms, which I consider unreliable.