Driving Over Railroad Tracks?

Question

What is the best way to drive your car over railroad tracks in order to avoid messing up your tires, alignment, brakes, etc. I have heard different methods (for instance, brake immediately before and coast going over the tracks, accelerate over tracks, and more). I have a new car (Toyota Corolla) and cross at least one set of railroad tracks twice a day. The only route that I can take that doesn't involve crossing tracks adds an extra 10 minutes to my commute. Any suggestions to keeping my car as new as possible despite the train tracks?

Answer 1

I think you have made up your mind by nearly all suggestions. Use your brakes well before crossing the tracks never slam on the brakes while driving over them. If possible, "free wheel" while driving over tracks. Simply glide and ride. If the tracks are not rough at all maintain your speed. After you've driven over the specific tracks, pick a spot that has the least amount of bumps. Good Luck . Take care of your "new ride"

Have someone explain all the moving suspension parts underneath your car. If their unfamiliar with Toyota lower A arms they won't believe their eyes. There fully boxed in. That means their tough as nails.

I own a new Camry and was shocked beyond belief when I saw my lower arms for the first time.

Answer 2

I wouldn't worry about driving over train tracks all that much. The tracks you cross are at a street crossing and set into the pavement, right? If so, then I'd suggest driving normally and crossing at as much of a 90 degree angle as you can. Not really going to mess up your car at all.

Over time you'll drive over various pot holes, cracks in the road, trash, etc that mess up your car about as much as driving across train tracks will, which is to say, not very much. What I worry about is trolley tracks on streets I drive on. Sometimes the tire will run along the trolley track that is set in the ground and it will pull the car one way or another. This is what you should try to avoid as it can mess up alignment over time.

Answer 3

i would cross them like i would a high curb entrance or exit. slow but still moving enough to not stop

i cross some too in my new car and so far i've been good

Answer 4

The only thing I can think of is maybe get a lift kit, but they're pretty expensive.

Answer 5

Go slow, especially if it's front wheel drive.

Answer 6

I would say just go over them slow..... maybe at an angle too.

Answer 7

you could put it on a tow truck or flatbed and have them drive it over, its not practical but the only answer i could come up with

Answer 8

slowly