Track Sections showing Base color options

HO/HOn3 Dual Gauge Track System

Track designed specifically with the discriminating HOn3 Modeler in mind.
✔ Sectional track system
✔ Works for tabletop or permanent layouts
✔ Expandable with curves, straights, tunnels, and dual gauge

Dual Gauge Track Alignment

Dual gauge track uses three rails, with one rail shared between both gauges.

Because of this, the narrow gauge track is offset to one side of the centerline.

What this means when building layouts:

  • Straight sections can be flipped without issue
  • Curved sections must be aligned consistently
  • Mismatched offsets can cause alignment issues at the joint

We define the offset direction based on the curve turning to the right (away from you).

Building loops and ovals

For continuous curves (circles or ovals):

Use curves with the same offset direction throughout the entire loop

This keeps the narrow gauge rail aligned correctly.

Building S-curves

When the curve direction reverses:

The offset side must also reverse

This ensures the narrow gauge track transitions smoothly through the change in direction.

Simple way to think about it:

  • Same direction curve → same offset
  • Opposite direction curve → reverse offset

(We do reccomend having a straight section between reverse curves, photo for reference)

Diverging Draws

When a diverging draw is used, each route will maintain proper alignment for both gauges.

  • The standard gauge follows the primary route
  • The narrow gauge continues along its offset path

They function similar to a fixed route turnout in that each gauge will always follow its planned route, however, unlike a turnout there is no moving parts.

Straight Draws

Straight draws change the offset of the narrow gauge. They solve issues where you may not have enough curves of one-offset or the other, and can be used in other special circumstances.

With dual gauge:

  • Offset direction must match between connecting sections
  • Can be used to fix mismatched offsets

Track System HO/HOn3

🚂 Looking for More Advanced Operation?

If you’re ready to take your HOn3 layout further, explore our HO/HOn3 Dual Gauge Track Systems. Designed for shared standard and narrow gauge operations, dual gauge opens the door to more complex track arrangements, prototypical yard scenes, and expanded operational possibilities.

👉 Upgrade to dual gauge to unlock a new level of realism and flexibility in your railroad.