I just bought crossing gates for my layout. How far from the center line of track should I place them. Was there a standard or minimum distance in transition era?
Let me google that for you. 20ft. from the tracks.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=railroad+crossing+gates+distance+from+track
Guy,
A suggestion; While you are waiting for a response,Google,Railroad Crossing Gates and you will run across a wealth of info,including You Tube Videos of them in operation,I just did,so I thought,I would pass it on to you…
Cheers,
Frank
Even though you are looking for the “prototype” distance used, you may have to alter the exact placement for the type of crossing,width of your road and the “true” scale and length of arms (if used) from the product being installed.Many times we have to compromise w/ our scaled dimensions and the final look may more depend on fitting/ placement to suit your eye.
You want to place them far enough back from the rails to avoid getting struck by the trains. Real life crossing gates that I can remember were within a few feet of the railheads. Gates on city streets wanted to be close to the rails to avoid blocking access to storefronts near the tracks when down. Also to be located on railroad property, which tended to end where the ballast ended. Either way, close.