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Types of Switching Tracks
Switching tracks direct the train from one track to another. This is achieved by points which are moveable rails, lying outside the main track.
Crossover: A crossover switch lets trains on one track to continue in a straight path or diverge onto an adjacent track. When both tracks diverge onto each other, a double crossover track is formed.
Three-Way: A three way track splits a track into three different directions.
Wye: A wye track allows the train to change directions. The train can go both right and left through a single track.
Double Slip: A double switch guides the train on four different routes. Two tracks combine with four points to achieve this.
6 Responses to Types of Switching Tracks
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What manufacturer makes the Three-way switches and the Slip switches = both the Single and Double slip switches. I could use some of each for a layout I am doing in HO Scale.
Thanks and Happy New Year to all the guys out there. May your modeling experience continue to be great.==DonJ
About the switches of three ways and slip switches, I meant to ask where they can be purchased also. Thanks Yours in Railroading = Donj
Don, Peco makes very nice switches for a decent price. They make both slip switches and 3-way switches, among others. If you can’t find them at your nearest hobby shop, the best place and price to look is either Amazon or Ebay. Enjoy. Rich
I have had a Peco 3 way since the dark ages 1998 or so. it has been used unused then stored for 10 plus years then re attached to the original peco 3 way track ( had to sit and think about wiring. but with peco like an ABC test dont overthink) It works great . Glenn ps peco now has switches special for them.
Slip switches and 3 ways can also be found made by Walthers. Just a note slip switches are just shortened versions of 4 single switches Just takes up more room.
I “roll my own”. Originally using Fast Tracks jigs and point/frog forming tools, now I build “freehand” using templates which are free downloads from the Fast Tracks website
http://www.handlaidtrack.com/Fast-Tracks-Printable-Track-Templates-s/11.htm
I’ve now made curved T/O’s, crossings (19 and 30 degree), and am now in the process of making a double crossover. I’ve made and installed over 50 #5 and #6 T/O’s, and they are SO MUCH better than ANYTHING you can buy pre-made. The trains roll over them so smoothly, one can hardly tell they’re rolling over a T/O. I’ve yet to have a train derail going thru any of my hand made track work. The best part of all…..I can make a T/O for a TOTAL cost of $3.00. Yes….$3.00. That’s for rail, PC board ties, and pre cut wood ties. I use RC servos to throw the T/O’s, and TAM VALLEY DEPOT Octopus III controllers to control the servos. Even with the servos and Octo III’s, my total cost per T/O is about $7.00. This is cost of the T/O, the servo, and the TVD controllers. The cheapest pre made T/O’s generally cost $15.00 and up, and then you still have to get something to throw and control them. You can easily spend North of $30.00 per T/O going the pre made rout. Just some encouragement to try making your own. You won’t be sorry!