The folks at Wikipedia have a nice write-up that gives descriptions of single and double slip switches. Scroll down towards the bottom for the description.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railroad_switch

These switches exist to allow for more route switching options in a shorted distance. Very common around crowded passenger terminal areas.

regards,
GNNPNUT

 

I have two tracks side by side and would like to have the ability to go from one to the other in either direction.

For that you need a "double crossover".

Here is an example:

https://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/948-8812

 

For parallel tracks,you need a double crossover turnout.Though a more expensive unit,it will come cheaper as it's all you need.

Slips are very handy when you want to go from one track to another but need additional turnouts to access/exit them.They are used when you have a three or more track setup.They are mostly a yard feature where space is at a premium.

 

Double slip switches were most often used in large passenger terminals.

Here is an example:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railroad_switch#Double_slip

The Single Slip switch is explained here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railroad_switch#Single_slip

Don

 

Don R
Thanks It was a big help. Am just getting started on my layout. So far having a good time with it. Thanks Again

 

Here is a #8 double slip switch on my layout. Trains going through it can be routed down either track.

 

May I recommend that, instead of using this complicated and expensive piece of trackage, that you use 4 turnouts in pairs, separated by enough track to allow two trains to pass.

Not only is this much more prototypical, it is also easier to wire / operate and has the advantage of easing operations.

Yes, it is slightly cheaper to buy one double crossover than 4 turnouts, but it pays back in the advantages gained.

 

Good advice. I just recently installed 2 turnouts back to back instead of a single crossover. Took up more room on the layout but seemed to be more realistic of the prototype. And the maintenance/ operation of the turnouts has worked flawlessly.