Double Track Question

[magickmaker]

This is something I was wondering, in fact I've been wondering it for some time now.

When it comes to double track orientation, how many railroads had their orientation opposite what would be considered the norm in the US? Left hand drive I suppose is the word for it.

I know that with some passing sidings, it would vary depending on the class of the train, but speaking of routes as a whole, how many of them used the left hand drive orientation as opposed to right hand? I seem to recall at least one railroad that did, but for the life of me I can't remember which.

 

[gfisher]

The Chicago & North Western used left hand running.

 

[LoudTrain]

Also confused...

I am also confused about double-tracks. When we took Amtrak's Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago, much of the route was double-tracked. We almost always ran on the "left" side, with freights running on the "right" side. (Unless what I thought was a double-track route was a very very very long passing siding?)

-- Russ

 

[Steveo241]

Usually the Empire Builder will run on the left on CP, right side on the BNSF. Someone who is really good with the CP will know. WCL or 007007 know...

Cheers,

Steve

 

[evan123]

If I understand correctly, it doesn't matter what track you're running on if it's double track main line. Amtrak is supposed to have track priority over freight, they're paying the railroads "big money" to get them track priority, however I don't know how often this track priority is given.

 

[JCitron]

In many cases, trains will run in either direction on either side, particularly in CTC territory.

John

 

[evan123]

In many cases, trains will run in either direction on either side, particularly in CTC territory.

John

Which actually depends on that railroads specific timetable.

 

[LoudTrain]

Thanks!

Thanks for the answers, folks! Not only do they help me understand a little better, but it may help route builders enhance the realism of their operations.

-- Russ