Description
The Atlas 544 is an HO Code 83 left-hand 22-inch radius Snap-Switch manual turnout — one-piece turnout with attached manual throw lever, matched to a 22" mainline so 6-axle diesels and 80-foot passenger cars take the diverging route without the geometry pinch you get on 18" turnouts.
Why the 22" radius. The diverging leg of a Snap-Switch curves at the same radius as a corresponding curve track section — an 18" Snap-Switch matches Atlas 532, a 22" Snap-Switch matches Atlas 535. On 18" turnouts, long power and passenger cars suffer coupler swing and overhang issues when they take the curve. The #544 puts the diverging route on 22", which is the modern minimum for SD40-2 / SD70-class diesels and full-length passenger equipment. The curved leg includes a partial radius section so the exit matches a full 22" arc when joined to standard track.
Plastic frog keeps wiring simple — no powered-frog polarity worries on DC or starter DCC. Manual throw lever is the standard above-benchwork Atlas lever; swap to remote with #65/66 for electrical control. Right-hand companion is Atlas 482 (RH manual, 22").
Specifications
- Scale: HO
- Rail Code: Code 83 nickel-silver
- Type: Snap-Switch turnout, manual throw
- Direction: Left Hand
- Diverging Radius: 22"
- Frog: Plastic (insulated)
- Brand: Atlas
- SKU / Item Number: 544
Pairs Well With
- Atlas 535 — 22" radius curve (6pc), matched diverging radius
- Atlas 537 — 22" radius 1/3 section, for fine trim after turnout
- Atlas 482 — 22" radius LH manual Snap-Switch turnout
- Atlas 483 — 22" radius RH manual Snap-Switch turnout (right-hand mate)
- Atlas 543 — RH 18" manual Snap-Switch (narrower turnout for industry sidings)