Track Level Gauge.

I have acquired a track level gauge and it gives the measurement 4foot 3/8". Is this the maximum allowable width? Also reverse to this is a P1 wheel profile, presumably again to see where the wheels would sit. Is there any reason a P1 profile has been chosen? The gauge is made entirely of Paxolene but the makers mark has disappeared, any ideas who the manufacturer would have been?

 

That doesn't sound right. Track gauge can be widened on tight curves, but not normally reduced from 4 ft 8 1/2 in. Even if it were a "wheel set back to back" gauge 4 ft 3/8 in is too tight.

 

Thanks for that I might run my tape measure over it.....

 

'Standard gauge' was reduced to 4'-8 ⅜" (1432mm) sometime in (I think) the 1960's. AIUI, the reason was because of an increasing number of derailments of four wheel wagons. which was put down to hunting of the vehicle and it was thought that, by tightening the gauge slightly, it would reduce lateral clearances and reduce the tendency of vehicles to hunt. Standard gauge has more recently reverted to 1435 mm, which is near enough 4'-8½". That's as I understand it.

 

4'-8 3/8" yes, but the OP stated 4' - 3/8"

 

There is a tolerance in Network standards.
A minimum of 1426 and a maximum of 1481 before line blocking had to happen.
However before those limits are reached speed restrictions are imposed.

Normal track should be at 1435 but allowable between 1430 and 1438mm

 

Looking back, that's correct. I read it as I thought it should be. Perhaps the original post is wrong or even the label on the gauge. Need Osprey to confirm.

 

The figures are properly etched into the Paxolene as 4ft 3/8 and 1432(metric).....the item is well used and has a curved bubble also marked in metric/imperial........I've run my tape measure over it and the dimensions are correct......it cost me £40 at a local auction...

 

Well, one of them cna't be right! 4'-⅜" does not equal 1432 mm. I would suggest that the latter is correct for the reasons I gave earlier.

 

Paxolene is a kind of resin plastic isn't it? Is it possible that it originally read 4foot 8⅜" but the 8 has worn away? In other words, does it read 4foot [gap] ⅜"? That would tie in with the metric measurement (i.e. 4' 8.375" = 1431.9mm, as near as 1432 as is essentially within the measurement tolerance).

Tom

 

Paxolene is as you say based around a woven material used as an electrical insulator and for mounting switch gear years ago..........the 3/8 is crystal clear.

 

Thanks for all the replies if I get time I'll post a photo(s)..........

 

I remember that but surely it would have been quicker and cheaper to turn the wheelsets slightly wider.