I am adding a second line next to my main line. Both tracks are 8to10 car lionel post war passenger cars running over a double wide trestle on a large sweeping S section. My question is what is a safe distance from center rail to center rail to insure no chance of contact. All the track work is supported on 1X4 with 1X3 uprights supports so the number is key for proper track location. I have 4&1/2 inches? I'am I close? Any help is greatly appreciated.
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Atlas track system is designed at 4 1/2" track centers. Some of the modular groups operated at 4 1/4" track centers.
4 1/4" track centers Gargraves track Ross switches.
Atlas 4 1/2" track centers.
The Dash 8's are on O-45 track curves. Outer loop is O-54.
Hi Mike, I should have mention its Gargraves. Thank's Steve
First three pictures are Gargraves with Ross Switches, Fort Pitt Hi-Railers layout.
Thanks for the pictures they look great,and for your help. Steve
Thanks for the pictures they look great,and for your help. Steve
You're welcome, 
Mike
The track center-to-center spacing for curves should be based upon the locomotive or rolling stock with the greatest over hang. Be sure to consider the overhang of future trains on your wish list.
The track center-to-center spacing for straight tracks can be significantly less. For parallel straight tracks, my standard is in the sketch, but I have also used 3 inches between centers which butts together the roadbeds of Real Trax. Fastrack is 0.63" wider than Real Trax, so you can butt these on straights as well.
Thank you Bobby, I will keep my wish list in mind. Steve
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