Speed for Double Crossover

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

I have a #6 Double Crossover on my layout and my trains go through it quite nicely. My question is what would the speed limit for such a crossover be in the real world? Thanks.

Brent

2

10 mph. Switches below #9 typically 10 mph, #9-11 15 mph, #14-20 30 mph, #20 equilateral and above 40-50 mph.

Double crossovers (2 over lapping crossovers with a diamond where they cross) are very, very, very rare on real railroads, normally only found in major passenger terminals or hump yard leads.

3

Brent,

The general rule for the prototype is to double the ‘number’ of the turnout - a #6 would be 12 mph. A #20 - 40 mph. An old CB&Q timetable listed #20 turnouts as follows:

  • Frieght Trains - 35 mph

  • Passenger Trains - 40 mph

Jim Bernier