4-Way Intersection For Wooden Tracks

A four-way intersection of wooden tracks

This is not a modeling part, but an accessory for a wooden train track. The PLUTON intersection is a junction where four arms of the line meet. The accessories of this brand are made by 3D printing.

What it does to a track

As long as a track is assembled only from curves and straight pieces, it stays a loop that can be run in one way only. A junction with four arms changes the rules: the train can carry on straight or turn, two routes can be led across each other, and a single circuit suddenly becomes a network. For children it makes for a more interesting game, because the direction is decided afresh every time, and for builders of larger layouts it is a way to connect two parts of a table without having to run all the way round.

Advice on assembly

Put the intersection in the middle of a free area and only then lead the arms out to the edges, otherwise the last section will not come out to length. Try the layout by running the train before you leave it to the children, so that you know nothing catches in the junction. A flat surface comes in handy under the crossings; on a soft carpet every junction works loose in time. The dimensions and the number of pieces in the package are stated by the manufacturer on the packaging.

Who will find it useful

• Households where a wooden track has grown across the whole room.
• Children who want to invent the route afresh every time.
• Builders of more extensive layouts connecting two parts of a table.
• Everyone whose track lacks a proper junction instead of another curve.