TRACKWORK 253 



To calculate the distance from the heel to the theoretical 

 point of frog, the width of the frog at the heel is measured 

 and multiplied by the frog number. For example, if the 

 width of the frog at the heel is 85 in., and a No. 8 frog is to be 

 used, the theoretical distance from the heel to the point of 

 frog is 8.5X8 = 68 in. = 5 ft. 8 in. Measure off this distance 

 from the point marking the heel of the frog; this will locate 

 the point of frog, which should be distinctly marked with red 

 chalk on the flange of the rail. It is a common practice to 

 make a distinct mark on the web of the main-track rail, directly 

 opposite to the point of frog. This point, being under the head 

 of the rail, is protected from wear and the weather. The heel 

 of the turnout is then located by measuring back the lead from 

 the point of frog. Next, make a chalk-mark on both main- 

 track rails on a line marking the center of the head-block. A 

 more permanent mark is made with a center punch. Stretch 

 a cord touching these marks, and drive a stake on each side of 

 the track, with a tack in each. This line should be at right 

 angles to the center line of the track, and the stakes should 

 be sufficiently far from the track not to be disturbed when 

 putting in switch ties. Next, cut the switch ties to proper 

 length; draw the spikes from the track ties, three or four at 

 a time, and remove the ties from the track, replacing them 

 with switch ties, and tamping the latter securely in place. 

 When all the long ties are tamped, cut the main-track rail for 

 the frog, being careful that the amount cut off is just equal 

 to the length of the frog. If, by increasing or decreasing the 

 length of the lead 5%, the cutting of a rail can be avoided, 

 this should be done, especially for frogs above No. 8. 



Full-length rails (30 ft.) should be used for moving or switch 

 rails, and care should be taken to leave a joint of proper width 

 at the head-chair. The head-chairs should be spiked to the 

 head-block so that the main-track rails will be in perfect line. 

 From 8 to 10 ft. of the switch rails should be spiked to the 

 ties. The tie-rods are placed between the switch ties, which 

 should not be more than 15 in. from center to center of tie. 

 The connection-rod should be attached to the head-rod and 

 switch stand. With these connections made, the switch stand 

 is easily placed to give the proper throw of the switch. 



