I originally posted this in a different section but realized it would be better to post here. Is it possible to make a 90 degree fastrack crossover insulated in both directions. I have attached a diagram of part of my layout plans where I make a loop off of a crossover and would like to have two crossing gates lower and raise before entering the crossover and again after leaving it. If this is possible could you please let me know how to do it.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I would think that if you had insulated track before and after the crossover the gates would operate normally because part of the train would always be activating them.
So you want gates to lower before train hits crossing, remain down until last car is off the crossover?
While I do not have fastrack, I believe, and could be wrong, that all the crossover outside rails are shorted to each other via metal strips underneath, meaning you would have to isolate one crossover outside rail from other side for north/south direction, and for east/west insuring the insulated rails "line up" with the insulated rails of the approach and departing sides of track. The insulated track then would cause gates to lower and rise whenever wheels shorted the grounded rails to the insulated rails.
Or use trackside sensors wired in parallel to activate gates.
Clear as mud, right? 
With Gargrave track, Ross Switches. I cut the rail, and CA'ed a piece styrene. Track that has integral road bed, much more difficult, IMO.
Cuts were done with the track/switches in place using a Dremel Cut-off wheel.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
