Maybe it's been answered before, but I can't seem to find it. I am considering Ross Switches on my upcoming layout. If I make a parallel crossover using the 11 degree turnouts, what is the center to center rail spacing?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
With Ross 100 or 101 switches, it would be about 4.2 inches.
Attachments
Its 4 1/4 to match the spacing in the curves in the ross system. If you remove the short rails adjacent the frog on the diverging legs and splice two switches together you can get the center to center down to 3.5”.
Attachments
Images (1)
Just watch spacing on the curves. Check the spacing with your longest car on the outside track and your engine with the widest over hang on the inside track.
The smaller the radius of your curve calls for a wider center line spacing on the curves to avoid contact.
National Model Railroad Association, NMRA, has a chart "recommended curve spacing S-8" for curve spacing based on the size of the curve and the type of equipment you intend to run.
I can tell you with certainty that 4.25" on curves ain't gonna' cut it if you run any articulated locomotives. 
@gunrunnerjohn posted:I can tell you with certainty that 4.25" on curves ain't gonna' cut it if you run any articulated locomotives.
I can Vouch for THAT!
