#5 or #6 turnouts to parallel spur?

[db22]

I have been reading lots of posts about getting the turnout back to parallel and my conclusion is a #5 with a 1/2 length of 22" radius. Does that sound correct?
I find it hard to believe that Bachmann design EZ Track with such odd angles and spurs and then don't give the dimensions and angles of either. I was going to ask, "What were they thinking" but it is obvious that the designer has never constructed a train set in his life and obviously cannot think. Wouldn't a "normal" person link a turnout with a complementary product to accomplish the easy implementation of a turnout to parallel track with a resulting common length?

[Yampa Bob]

The lack of complementary pieces is a much discussed topic on the forum. 

The EZ #5 has a divergent angle of 12 degrees. 1/2 of a 22" piece only diverges 11.25 degrees, but might fudge.  EZ 33.25" is 12 degrees, or use 2 - 6 degree pieces. 

EZ #6 is 9.46 degrees, a 1/3 - 18" piece is close. (10 degrees)

Confused?  These threads should help you:

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,4682.0.html

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,6549.0.html

If you know the divergent angle, then you can use the piece that has the same angle for return to parallel. Keep in mind this gives results for a "true" number frog, manufacturer's turnouts are not true, but rounded off in terms of the divergent angle.

For example, a true #5 has a divergent angle of 11.459 degrees. A true #6 is 9.549 degrees.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,6339.0.html

By the way, who informed you that Model Railroaders are "normal people". 

[db22]

Thank you Yampabob, it confirms my finding that Bachmann must make a conscious effert to suppress useful information. Their products link gives very little detailed information about each item whether it is track or cars. It is very difficult for somebody new to this to get into it without wasting a lot of money just to learn the hard way. If Mr Bach Man is listening: the website needs a lot of help.

[Yampa Bob]

You're welcome. Bachmann provides and supports this board so you CAN get information, either directly from the Administrator or from other members who have experience with Bachmann products.

I would encourage you to bookmark the links I gave so you can help others when needed.  Those who are helped should become helpers to keep this information flowing.

Go to the thread, if using Internet Explorer, click "Favorites" at the top, then click "Add to favorites".  In the "Name" window, change the default to the thread title. If you don't change it, any new favorite you add will just overwrite the old one.

Please read my thread on organizing forum information.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,7136.0

Good luck.