Question on Double Crossover

On a previous layout, I switched all four together.  It seemed to be the right thing to do to me.

Might consider posting this on the OGR Real Trains forum to see what the real railroaders have to say as far as what their employer signal department did with crossovers.  Some RR switch just the required pair then return them normal after train passes. Others RR throw all four and leave them until next train is due.

On my layout, I just throw all four and done with it.

One reason to switch all four at the same time is that if you let the trains run and get distracted, there is no way the trains should derail.  If you only switch two turnouts, there is the possibility that you could have a derailment.

If you need special wiring to prevent stalling you may be better off with only one crossover lined at a time. Routes are a good way to go.

I have several locations on my layout with crossovers, usually in pairs to make them double-crossovers, but I used individual turnouts, as shown below.

I actuate them in pairs, and have not seen the need to throw all four of any complementary pairs. On my layout, some of the double-crossovers allow trains to go from one of the dual main tracks to the other; and in other cases, they create reversing loops.

Alex

If they are indeed called crossovers, no matter how far apart the two switches are, both must be lined for the movement before the movement begins. And both must be lined and locked in the normal position before reporting clear. I would wire them in pairs to keep it simple but it is not really necessary. 

This discussion brings up a another discussion. How many of us have a rule book and timetable for their layout? Using prototypical rules are educational and can add another layer to the fun of model railroading.     

Conductor Earl 

If you numbered them in facing pairs, say 10 for the two RH and 11 for the two LH that will keep the pairs matching. If all four throw at once it may prevent a derailment at the cross overs but you may end up hitting a parked train. I'd lean towards the matching pairs as it will allow you to number all your switches in some type of order that a guest operator can easily pick up.