Are curved points really that bad?

[Gixer]

I want to fit one more siding onto our layout, only way I can fit it on is by using a Hornby curved point.

Am I asking for trouble?

[Steve M]

With Hornby points, yes you are. I have quite a few curved Peco points on mine - no issue at all. Used one Hornby curved point (where nothing else would fit) and ended up ripping it out and redesigning that part of the layout.

[yelrow]

I have one on my new layout. I accept I change it manually, but has worked perfectly for 12 months.

[Gixer]

Thanks for the feedback.

I might give it a go and see, I can't think of another solution ATM

[Puddles]

I had two points on my layout (PECO) and never had any problems with them. I must admit I was a bit worried when I first purchased them after reading peoples bad experience’s with curved points, when laying I made sure they were perfectly aligned and perfectly flat so they did work well in all directions of travel.

Puddles

[bulleidboy]

I have two or three Peco curved points - same answer as Puddles.
Barry/BB

[Mike Parkes]

The issue with Hornby (and Peco Setrack - older ones if not current?) curved point is that at one location the track gauge narrrows slightly.

[Hound Dog]

I echo Puddles comments - It is all about the alignment into and out of the curved point, eg a tight radius track going into a curved point will find problems with longer wheel based locos, as it just cannot accommodate what is being demanded of it.

If you ensure the track entering and leaving the point is as gentle as possible ( and absolutely no tighter than the point itself), then I have found curved points to generally work fine.

[RogerB]

If you ensure the track entering and leaving the point is as gentle as possible ( and absolutely no tighter than the point itself), then I have found curved points to generally work fine.

You’ve hit the nail on the head, I have always wondered [in my OO days] why I couldn’t get on with the curved points and lots of other folk had no problems. My two were just after a curved track which obviously was different radius. Thanks. R-

[Buffer Stop]

I use one Hornby curved point in my layout and thus far, is has behaved as it should (touch wood), and works well with a point motor. I know that my local model shop owner doesn't like them, but I think, as previously mentioned here, if they are installed correctly, then they should work. If they didn't, why would both Hornby & Peco continue to sell them?