two question: Operation and turnout?

[KentBy]

Kent,

You turn a train by simply running the engine around it and tacking it on the other end.

As for the crossover, there have been several linkages designed to throw all four points with one switch machine - most of them involve a series of bell-cranks that operate the throw bars. A little simpler, and less mechanically complicated mechanism can be done with two machines, one for each opposed pair.

I think Tetters tackled this with his handlaid crossover/double-slip switch... I'm not sure if he cross-posted that thread from Zealot or not.

The pictures with the artical show the use of steam engine. Assuming that the engine pulled the train in frontwards, then the return trip would be with the tender going first? Is this prototypical?

Thanks for the info, Kent