Beginner's Guide to Model Railroading

Crossing Tracks

Crossing tracks allow trains to cross over other tracks without switching to different lines. A figure-8 track layout uses a crossing track so trains don’t have to go over or under the tracks. Crossing tracks come in many different angles. Two are illustrated above. The one on the left is a 90-degree crossing and the one on the right is a 30-degree crossing. There are even 15-degree, 45-degree, and other various track angles for accommodating almost any railroading layout. Generally, to keep a train on the same line, use a crossing track. To switch a train between two different lines, use a switcher (turnout) track.

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Buildings and Other Structures

Cross or Switch

When laying out your track plan, just remember that crossing tracks generally restrict the movement of your train to a specific rail line, while switcher tracks are used to move your trains onto or off all the rail lines on your model railroad. An isolated line always brings your train back to the crossing track; switchers allow movement to all track lines and all crossing tracks.