I am contemplating modeling segments of the PRR electified lines. I am confident this subject has been discussed before so any reference to same is appreciated ....but, is it possible to run "electrics" with operational catenary serving as the 3rd rail and run the engines on 2-rail track?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Yes.
The only potential problem I would see is mechanical, not electrical: Ensuring that your "3 rail electrics" have wheels / flanges that are compatible with your choices of 2 rail track, and specifically at turnouts, crossings, and other locations where flange height and location vs guardrail / frog dimensions come into play.
SZ
Sure. You can use 2-rail Gargraves track and eliminate all the potential problems about wheel flanges. I use it and I had Ross make me a bunch of switches without the third rail to use with the Gargraves.
You already got great answers. I will only add that you will want to remove the 3rd rail pickup shoes and store them somewhere as they can get stuck between the ties of Gargraves track. Have no idea where I learned that! 
Lionel actually did that with one of their display layouts decades ago. The GG1's ran from overhead with their pickup rollers disconnected while other trains picked up from the center rail.
If you have a good catenary setup, you shouldn't have a problem subject to track compatibility. Definitely remove your pickup rollers, though.
Thanks to everyone for your answers and suggestions. As mentioned I'm just thinking about this....... the real issue is whether modeling a detailed and operational catenary system is worth the time and expense, or to just stay with the 3rd rail represent the catenary system. Again....many thanks.
NEPA
Cosmetic or live, cat is cool! 
Sure. You can use 2-rail Gargraves track and eliminate all the potential problems about wheel flanges. I use it and I had Ross make me a bunch of switches without the third rail to use with the Gargraves.
Sorry to Hi-Jack the post, but I'd like to touch bases with you Arthur. I'm designing a new 2 Rail Hi-Rail layout with Gargraves/Ross and I'd like to pick your brain if you don't mind. You can contact me directly at my email in my profile. Thanks!
Not exactly prototype on the cat poles, but the wire looks pretty decent on my recent addition to my mostly 3RS modular layout in the middle of my train room. Still needs a ton of work and has been a distraction from rebuilding the around the wall layout, but it is still fun and it runs. I still need to wire the overhead and I am missing about 4 poles to complete my loop.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
