Atlas HO Code 83 Custom-Line Mark IV Curved Turnout – Right – 22"/30" Radius – ATL596

Atlas HO Code 83 Custom-Line Mark IV Curved Turnout – Right – ATL596 is a specialized curved HO scale track switch that allows one curved route to divide into two curved paths without first transitioning to straight track. Featuring a 22" inside radius and 30" outside radius, this right-hand turnout is ideal for curved passing sidings, junctions, yard entrances, station approaches and other complex track arrangements where a conventional straight turnout may not fit the desired geometry.

Unlike a standard turnout with a straight route and a diverging route, both routes through ATL596 remain curved. This makes curved turnouts particularly valuable when a route needs to branch while the main track is already following a curve.

22" Inner & 30" Outer Radius

Atlas specifies ATL596 with a 22" inside radius and 30" outside radius. The two different radii allow the routes to separate while maintaining continuous curved track geometry through the turnout.

The 22" inside route provides the tighter curve, while the 30" outside route provides the broader path. This combination can be especially useful for curved sidings, yard approaches, station tracks, industrial leads and junctions located within an existing curve.

Always check the minimum-radius requirements of the locomotives and rolling stock that will use each route, particularly equipment traveling through the tighter 22" radius path.

Why Use a Curved Turnout?

A curved turnout allows a route to divide while the track is already curving. This can eliminate the need to straighten the track before installing a conventional turnout and can make much better use of available layout space.

ATL596 is especially useful for:

• Curved passing sidings
• Yard entrances located on curves
• Station approaches
• Industrial and branch-line junctions
• Engine terminal approaches
• Curved mainline junctions
• Space-conscious track arrangements
• Locations where a straight turnout would interrupt the desired track alignment

Right-Hand Curved Configuration

ATL596 is the right-hand version of the Atlas HO Code 83 Custom-Line curved turnout. Because both routes through a curved turnout are curved, its geometry differs from a conventional right-hand turnout with a straight through route.

Carefully plan the orientation of the turnout and adjoining track before permanent installation so the 22" inner and 30" outer radius routes align correctly with the intended track arrangement.

Custom-Line Mark IV Construction

Atlas identifies ATL596 as a Customline Mark IV turnout. It features nickel silver Code 83 rail and fine brown plastic ties that match the appearance of the Atlas HO Code 83 track system.

The turnout can be configured for manual or remote operation depending on the appropriate switch machine installed by the modeler, allowing it to be incorporated into several different turnout-control systems.

Die-Cast Switch Points

ATL596 features die-cast switch points that direct locomotives and rolling stock between the two curved routes. Proper point alignment is particularly important on a curved turnout because equipment is already negotiating curvature as it passes through the switch.

Before permanent installation, verify that the points move freely and seat properly against the appropriate stock rails in both positions.

Isolated Die-Cast Frog with Power Contact

Atlas equips this turnout with an isolated die-cast frog and power contact. The frog can optionally be energized to help maintain electrical pickup as a locomotive passes through the frog area.

Powered-frog capability can be especially useful during slow-speed switching operations or with locomotives having shorter electrical pickup wheelbases.

Atlas HO Code 83 Curved Right Turnout Features

• HO Scale 1:87
• Atlas Custom-Line Mark IV curved turnout
• Right-hand configuration
• 22" inside radius
• 30" outside radius
• Both routes remain curved through the turnout
• Ideal for curved junctions, sidings, yards and station approaches
• Code 83 nickel silver rail
• Fine brown plastic ties
• Die-cast switch points
• Isolated die-cast frog
• Power contact allows optional frog energizing
• Can be configured for manual or remote operation with an appropriate switch machine
• Atlas manufacturer item number 0596
• Fusion Scale Hobbies SKU ATL596

Curved Turnout vs. Standard Turnout

The key difference between ATL596 and a conventional #4, #6 or #8 turnout is the shape of the routes. A standard numbered turnout generally provides a straight route with a diverging route branching away from it. With this curved turnout, both routes follow curved alignments.

That makes ATL596 a specialized track-planning component rather than simply another turnout size. It allows a siding or secondary route to begin within an existing curve and can help create track arrangements that would otherwise require substantially more space.

22" vs. 30" Radius Routes

The 22" radius route is tighter than the 30" radius route. The broader 30" path provides more generous curvature, while the 22" path allows the inner route to remain considerably more compact.

When planning the turnout location, consider which locomotives and rolling stock will regularly use each route. Verify equipment minimum-radius requirements rather than assuming every HO scale locomotive or car will comfortably negotiate the tighter 22" route.

Atlas HO Code 83 Construction

Atlas HO Code 83 track uses nickel silver rail with prototypically fine brown ties, providing a finer and more scale-appropriate rail profile than traditional Code 100 track while maintaining dependable operation for HO scale layouts.

The realistic tie appearance and finer rail profile make Atlas Code 83 particularly well suited to permanent layouts where both appearance and reliable operation are priorities.

Plan & Test Before Permanent Installation

Curved turnouts require careful installation because track alignment through both curved routes directly affects operation. Avoid forcing adjoining flex track into an unnatural alignment or creating a kink immediately before or after the turnout.

Before securing and ballasting ATL596, test representative locomotives and rolling stock through both the 22" and 30" radius routes in both directions. Verify point movement, wheel tracking, electrical continuity and equipment clearance while adjustments can still be made easily.

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