1950s mainline track question

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

I’m trying to locate information on the rail dimension and cross tie distance on RRs during the 1950s so I can begin purchasing track components for a new Proto:87 layout.

I’m not commuter-challenged…just plain old Googled-out. Thanks for any help.

PS…if it makes any difference, the layout is setting is ATSF in West Texas

2

Hi Con

The best thing would be contacting the ATSF historicle society. As each RR did things their own way plus diferent divisions did thier own things also.

Pete

3

Thanks Pete…I’ll try that

4

Santa Fe System Standards 1978, Kachina Press, Dallas, Texas has information such as track and tie dimensions, shown on a system map… what standards were used on each line, etc. Volume 2. right of way fence and cattleguards. Volume 3. crosstie spacing, switch stands.

By Santa Fe in West Texas, do you mean the former Orient lines?

5

Thanks for the information Leigh. I’m modelling up near Miami in the Panhandle. As I remember, the Orient was down near Plata, Alpine & Presidio, wasn’t it? Yeh, I shoulda said Panhandle, not West Texas…ooops :slight_smile:

Mac