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JeremyB-- Here's another rule of thumb that might be helpful. For crossovers and switches, take the frog number (i.e., #6, #9, etc.) and multiply it by 2--that's the max speed through it. So a powered #16 on a main line siding would be good for about 30 mph but a #11would be good for only about 20, assuming they are lined and tamped and in acceptable cross-level. Now on a model, you'll have to cheat a little because the curves are tighter and the frog number's lower than on the prototype. But then, think about it, a mile is a difficult thing to model in HO (5280'/87) and only a little bit easier in N. So don't worry, be happy! I notice you are from CA but don't say where. CalTrans has taken an aggressive position regarding protection of crossings on main lines, with full closure gates and islands on many main and some secondary tracks where they can't eliminate the crossing altogether. Don't expect to see any trains slow down for these, as that's why they were installed-just run track speed if you're on a main track. Also there are very few speed restrictions that aren't track-driven. Follow Ed's good advice and go pick up an employee timetable for the line and era you are modeling. It'll have a wealth of info in it that will help you in a lot of different areas. Or find someone who has one and who will photocopy the appropriate sections for your reference. Remember, too, not all trains, even of the same type or class, travel at the same speed on the same track. It depends on what is happening at the time. Yard and switching: walking speed. Underpowered and overloaded--slow, Crossing over or going into a siding--slow (see above). There are also speed restrictions for freights running through passenger stations (very relevant for CA, depending on what you model). And on double track Automatic-permissive block (one way traffic on each track) with train running on the wrong track against current of traffic--30 mph max. And as several people have pointed out--on the real RR, BEWARE, that train is likely traveling a whole lot faster that it looks to you. Sorry you had to be subjected to the soapbox types. Let us all know what you come up with. Good hunting.[:)]
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