Atlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Turnout – Left – ATL565

Atlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Turnout – Left – ATL565 is a broad-geometry left-hand HO scale track switch designed for mainlines, passing sidings, crossovers and other locations where smooth, gradual routing is a priority. Its #8 geometry provides a gentler diverging route than #4 or #6 turnouts, making it an excellent choice for layouts operating longer locomotives, passenger cars and modern rolling stock.

Part of the Atlas HO Code 83 Custom-Line track system, ATL565 features nickel silver rail, prototypically fine brown ties, a blackened metal frog and rivetless switch points. It combines realistic HO scale appearance with dependable operation for permanent model railroad trackwork.

#8 Custom-Line Turnout Geometry

ATL565 is a #8 numbered turnout. Higher-numbered turnouts provide a more gradual diverging route, so a #8 requires more layout length than a #4 or #6 but produces a considerably gentler route through the switch.

This makes #8 geometry particularly useful for mainline junctions, passing sidings, crossovers, station approaches and other locations where trains regularly travel through the diverging route.

Left-Hand Configuration

ATL565 is the left-hand version. When approaching the turnout from the single-track or point end, the diverging route branches toward the left.

Left-hand #8 turnouts can be combined with flex track, straight track and additional turnouts to create broad passing sidings, mainline crossovers, station tracks and other realistic HO scale track arrangements.

Why Choose a #8 Turnout?

The major advantage of a #8 turnout is its broad, gradual geometry. Compared with a #4 or #6 turnout, the diverging route changes direction more gradually, reducing the abruptness of the route through the switch.

This is especially valuable for long-wheelbase locomotives, passenger cars and longer freight equipment. Broad turnout geometry can also create a more prototypical appearance in mainline trackwork where sufficient layout space is available.

The tradeoff is space. A #8 turnout requires more layout length than a tighter turnout, so it is best suited to locations where the broader geometry can be accommodated.

Blackened Metal Frog

The Atlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Turnout features a blackened metal frog. The metal construction provides a more realistic appearance while forming part of Atlas's prototypically designed Custom-Line turnout system.

Atlas designs its Custom-Line turnouts for superior electrical conductivity, an important consideration for dependable slow-speed operation through switches and complex trackwork.

Rivetless Switch Points

ATL565 features rivetless switch points for improved electrical conductivity and a cleaner, more realistic appearance. Removing prominent point rivets helps the turnout more closely resemble prototype railroad track while maintaining dependable operation.

The switch points direct locomotives and rolling stock between the straight and diverging routes. Proper alignment and complete point closure should always be checked before permanently installing the turnout.

Atlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Left Turnout Features

• HO Scale 1:87
• #8 Custom-Line turnout
• Left-hand configuration
• Broad, gradual numbered-turnout geometry
• Ideal for mainlines, passing sidings, crossovers and station approaches
• Well suited to longer locomotives and rolling stock
• Code 83 nickel silver rail
• Prototypically fine brown ties
• Blackened metal frog
• Rivetless switch points
• Designed for superior electrical conductivity
• Compatible with under-table switch machines
• Compatible with standard Atlas remote and manual Code 83 switch machines
• Same geometry as the corresponding current Atlas Code 100 Custom-Line turnout
• Custom-Line geometry differs from Atlas Snap-Switch geometry
• Atlas manufacturer item number 0565
• Fusion Scale Hobbies SKU ATL565

#8 vs. #6 Turnouts

Both #6 and #8 turnouts provide considerably broader geometry than compact switching turnouts, but a #8 provides an even more gradual diverging route than a #6.

A #6 is an excellent all-around choice for passing sidings, crossovers and yard approaches while keeping layout length manageable. A #8 is better suited to locations where broad mainline-style geometry takes priority and sufficient space is available.

#8 vs. #4 Turnouts

A #4 turnout prioritizes compact trackwork, allowing the diverging route to separate quickly and saving valuable layout space. A #8 turnout takes the opposite approach, using considerably broader geometry to create a more gradual route.

For industrial areas, compact yards and switching layouts, a #4 may make better use of available space. For mainlines, passenger routes and broad crossovers, a #8 can provide more realistic-looking track geometry and a gentler route for longer equipment.

Custom-Line vs. Snap-Switch

ATL565 is a numbered Atlas Custom-Line turnout and should not be confused with an Atlas Snap-Switch. Atlas specifically states that Custom-Line turnouts and Snap-Switches have different geometry and cannot simply be substituted for one another in a track plan.

Snap-Switches are designed around sectional curved-track geometry, while ATL565 uses #8 numbered-turnout geometry. Always verify which type of turnout is required when following an existing Atlas or other track plan.

Compatible Turnout Control

Atlas designed its HO Code 83 Custom-Line turnouts for operation with an under-table switch machine or standard remote and manual Code 83 switch machines, allowing model railroaders to choose a turnout-control system appropriate for their layout.

An under-table switch machine keeps the operating mechanism hidden beneath the layout surface, while surface-mounted manual or remote controls provide alternative installation options.

Atlas HO Code 83 Construction

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

Plan for the Larger #8 Footprint

The broad geometry that makes a #8 turnout desirable also means it requires more layout space than a #4 or #6 turnout. Plan the surrounding trackwork carefully and make sure there is sufficient room for the turnout and the gradual separation of the diverging route.

Before permanently securing and ballasting ATL565, connect the adjoining track and test locomotives and rolling stock through both the straight and diverging routes. Verify smooth point movement, wheel tracking and equipment clearance while adjustments remain easy to make.

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