{"product_id":"atl565","title":"Atlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Turnout – Left – ATL565","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Turnout – Left – ATL565\u003c\/strong\u003e is a broad-geometry left-hand HO scale track switch designed for \u003cstrong\u003emainlines, passing sidings, crossovers and other locations where smooth, gradual routing is a priority\u003c\/strong\u003e. 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePart of the Atlas HO Code 83 Custom-Line track system, ATL565 features \u003cstrong\u003enickel silver rail, prototypically fine brown ties, a blackened metal frog and rivetless switch points\u003c\/strong\u003e. It combines realistic HO scale appearance with dependable operation for permanent model railroad trackwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e#8 Custom-Line Turnout Geometry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eATL565 is a \u003cstrong\u003e#8 numbered turnout\u003c\/strong\u003e. 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis makes #8 geometry particularly useful for \u003cstrong\u003emainline junctions, passing sidings, crossovers, station approaches and other locations where trains regularly travel through the diverging route\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eLeft-Hand Configuration\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eATL565 is the \u003cstrong\u003eleft-hand version\u003c\/strong\u003e. When approaching the turnout from the single-track or point end, the diverging route branches toward the left.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLeft-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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Choose a #8 Turnout?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe major advantage of a \u003cstrong\u003e#8 turnout is its broad, gradual geometry\u003c\/strong\u003e. Compared with a #4 or #6 turnout, the diverging route changes direction more gradually, reducing the abruptness of the route through the switch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is especially valuable for \u003cstrong\u003elong-wheelbase locomotives, passenger cars and longer freight equipment\u003c\/strong\u003e. Broad turnout geometry can also create a more prototypical appearance in mainline trackwork where sufficient layout space is available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBlackened Metal Frog\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Atlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Turnout features a \u003cstrong\u003eblackened metal frog\u003c\/strong\u003e. The metal construction provides a more realistic appearance while forming part of Atlas's prototypically designed Custom-Line turnout system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAtlas designs its Custom-Line turnouts for \u003cstrong\u003esuperior electrical conductivity\u003c\/strong\u003e, an important consideration for dependable slow-speed operation through switches and complex trackwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eRivetless Switch Points\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eATL565 features \u003cstrong\u003erivetless switch points\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 #8 Custom-Line Left Turnout Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHO Scale 1:87\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e#8 Custom-Line turnout\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeft-hand configuration\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBroad, gradual numbered-turnout geometry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for mainlines, passing sidings, crossovers and station approaches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWell suited to longer locomotives and rolling stock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCode 83 nickel silver rail\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrototypically fine brown ties\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlackened metal frog\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRivetless switch points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDesigned for superior electrical conductivity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with under-table switch machines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with standard Atlas remote and manual Code 83 switch machines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSame geometry as the corresponding current Atlas Code 100 Custom-Line turnout\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCustom-Line geometry differs from Atlas Snap-Switch geometry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAtlas manufacturer item number 0565\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFusion Scale Hobbies SKU ATL565\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e#8 vs. #6 Turnouts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBoth #6 and #8 turnouts provide considerably broader geometry than compact switching turnouts, but a \u003cstrong\u003e#8 provides an even more gradual diverging route than a #6\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA #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 \u003cstrong\u003ebroad mainline-style geometry\u003c\/strong\u003e takes priority and sufficient space is available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e#8 vs. #4 Turnouts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA #4 turnout prioritizes compact trackwork, allowing the diverging route to separate quickly and saving valuable layout space. A \u003cstrong\u003e#8 turnout takes the opposite approach\u003c\/strong\u003e, using considerably broader geometry to create a more gradual route.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCustom-Line vs. Snap-Switch\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eATL565 is a \u003cstrong\u003enumbered Atlas Custom-Line turnout\u003c\/strong\u003e and should not be confused with an Atlas Snap-Switch. Atlas specifically states that Custom-Line turnouts and Snap-Switches have different geometry and \u003cstrong\u003ecannot simply be substituted for one another\u003c\/strong\u003e in a track plan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSnap-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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCompatible Turnout Control\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAtlas designed its HO Code 83 Custom-Line turnouts for operation with an \u003cstrong\u003eunder-table switch machine or standard remote and manual Code 83 switch machines\u003c\/strong\u003e, allowing model railroaders to choose a turnout-control system appropriate for their layout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn under-table switch machine keeps the operating mechanism hidden beneath the layout surface, while surface-mounted manual or remote controls provide alternative installation options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Construction\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 track features \u003cstrong\u003eprototypically fine brown ties and nickel silver rail\u003c\/strong\u003e. 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003ePlan for the Larger #8 Footprint\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe broad geometry that makes a #8 turnout desirable also means it requires \u003cstrong\u003emore layout space than a #4 or #6 turnout\u003c\/strong\u003e. Plan the surrounding trackwork carefully and make sure there is sufficient room for the turnout and the gradual separation of the diverging route.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore permanently securing and ballasting ATL565, connect the adjoining track and test locomotives and rolling stock through \u003cstrong\u003eboth the straight and diverging routes\u003c\/strong\u003e. Verify smooth point movement, wheel tracking and equipment clearance while adjustments remain easy to make.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShop Atlas HO Code 83 Turnouts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-code-83-turnouts-switches\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Turnouts \u0026amp; Switches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e collection for additional #4, #6 and #8 Custom-Line turnouts, Wye turnouts, Snap-Switches and switching components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBuild with Atlas HO Code 83 Track\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShop our complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-code-83-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e collection for flex track, sectional track, turnouts, crossings and additional components for realistic HO scale trackwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eExplore \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-code-83-flex-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Flex Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-code-83-straight-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Straight Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-code-83-curved-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Curved Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-code-83-crossings\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Code 83 Crossings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e for additional track components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAtlas HO Switch Machines \u0026amp; Accessories\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-switch-machines\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Switch Machines\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e for turnout-control options or shop \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-track-accessories\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Track Accessories\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e for additional layout-building components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHO Scale Track\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-ho-scale-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas HO Scale Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e selection or explore \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ho-scale-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHO Scale Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/model-railroad-track\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eModel Railroad Track\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e for additional track systems and manufacturers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eShop additional products from \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-model-railroad\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas Model Railroad\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e and browse \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/atlas-in-stock-products\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlas In-Stock Products\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Atlas","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43630591836416,"sku":"ATL565","price":20.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0613\/6453\/5552\/products\/ATL565_FSH.jpg?v=1789326668","url":"https:\/\/fusionscalehobbies.com\/products\/atl565","provider":"Fusion Scale Hobbies","version":"1.0","type":"link"}