Atlas HO Code 83 Snap-Track Starter Set – 38" x 56" Oval with Passing Siding – ATL588

Atlas HO Code 83 Snap-Track Starter Set – ATL588 provides the track and switching components needed to build a 38" x 56" HO scale oval with a passing siding. Designed as an easy-to-assemble introduction to HO model railroad track, this starter package combines Atlas Code 83 sectional track, left and right manual switches and terminal joiners into one convenient layout package.

The finished track plan is more interesting than a simple oval. The included passing siding creates a second route where trains can meet, pass, park or perform basic switching operations, while the sectional Snap-Track design makes the layout easy to assemble and expand later.

Builds a 38" x 56" HO Layout

Atlas designed the ATL588 Starter Set to assemble into an approximately 38" x 56" oval layout with a passing siding. This compact footprint makes it a practical starting point for a first HO railroad, temporary train setup or the foundation of a larger permanent layout.

Once assembled, the continuous oval allows trains to run continuously while the siding introduces turnout operation and gives the railroad a second track for more varied operation.

What's Included?

• 2 – 9" Straight Track Sections
• 16 – 18" Radius Curved Track Sections
• 1 – Left Manual Turnout
• 1 – Right Manual Turnout
• 1 Pair – Terminal Joiners
• Complete assembly instructions

18" Radius Curves

The starter set uses 18" radius curved track to form the main oval. Radius describes the distance from the center of the circle to the track centerline, so a complete 18" radius circle is approximately 36" in diameter at the track centerline before allowing additional clearance around the track.

An 18" radius is a common compact HO scale curve, but locomotive and rolling-stock requirements vary. Always check the manufacturer's recommended minimum radius for the equipment you plan to operate on the layout, particularly longer locomotives and passenger cars.

Passing Siding Included

What separates ATL588 from a basic oval track set is the included passing siding. Rather than providing only one continuous route, the left and right manual switches create a second parallel track that trains can enter and leave.

A passing siding can be used to allow two trains to meet or pass, temporarily park a train, practice switching movements or add operating variety to a compact layout.

Left & Right Manual Switches

The set includes both a left-hand and right-hand manual switch. Together, these switches form the entrance and exit of the passing siding.

Because they are manually controlled, the route is changed directly at the switch. This provides simple turnout operation without requiring an electrical remote-control system just to get the starter layout operating.

Terminal Joiners for Track Power

A pair of terminal joiners is included to provide a convenient connection between the track and a compatible model railroad power system. The terminal joiners replace standard rail joiners at the electrical connection point while carrying power to the rails.

A train and power pack are not included and must be purchased separately.

Atlas HO Code 83 Track

Atlas HO Code 83 track features nickel silver rail and prototypically fine brown ties. The finer Code 83 rail profile provides a more scale-appropriate appearance than traditional Code 100 track while maintaining dependable operation for HO scale model railroads.

Because ATL588 uses the Atlas Code 83 track system, the starter layout can be expanded with additional compatible straight track, curved track, turnouts, crossings and flex track as the railroad grows.

Designed for Beginners – Expandable for the Future

The Atlas Snap-Track Starter Set is particularly useful for someone building an HO railroad for the first time. The sectional-track geometry makes it easier to create a dependable layout without measuring and cutting every piece of track individually.

More importantly, the finished 38" x 56" railroad does not have to remain a starter layout. Additional Atlas Code 83 track can be added later to create longer mainlines, additional sidings, industrial spurs, yards, junctions and larger operating layouts.

Atlas HO Code 83 Snap-Track Starter Set Features

• HO Scale 1:87
• Builds approximately a 38" x 56" layout
• Continuous oval with passing siding
• 18" radius main curve geometry
• 2 pieces of 9" straight track
• 16 pieces of 18" radius curved track
• Left manual switch included
• Right manual switch included
• Pair of terminal joiners included
• Complete assembly instructions included
• Nickel silver Code 83 rail
• Prototypically fine brown ties
• Easy-to-assemble sectional track system
• Expandable with additional Atlas HO Code 83 track
• Ideal as a first HO scale layout or foundation for a larger railroad
• Train and power pack sold separately
• Atlas manufacturer item number 0588
• Fusion Scale Hobbies SKU ATL588

What Else Do I Need?

ATL588 supplies the track components for the starter layout, but it is not a complete ready-to-run train set. A locomotive, rolling stock and compatible model railroad power/control system are required separately.

For a permanent layout, modelers may also want roadbed, track nails or adhesive, additional electrical feeders, ballast and scenery materials as construction progresses.

Shop Atlas HO Code 83 Layout Packages

Browse our Atlas HO Code 83 Layout Packages for starter sets and track packages designed to simplify construction of complete HO scale track plans.

Expand with Atlas HO Code 83 Track

Shop our complete Atlas HO Code 83 Track collection to expand the starter layout with additional track and switching components.

Explore Atlas HO Code 83 Straight Track, Atlas HO Code 83 Curved Track, Atlas HO Code 83 Turnouts & Switches and Atlas HO Code 83 Crossings for additional layout-building options.

Atlas HO Track & Accessories

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