Abstract: A machine to operate with at least one similar machine along a railway line to remove and install railway track portions and switches, has a portal structure extending transversely and straddling the railway line, and has telescopic uprights connected respectively to different telescopic cross-members, so that the uprights can be moved sideways independently of each other to a width sufficient to straddle a switch. At the base of each upright is a crawler track to run on the ballast at the sides of the railway line or switch. Four flanged wheels are mounted on the telescopic columns on the cross-members to move downwardly and run along the rails of the railway line. Below each cross-member are two pivotal hooks to grip the railway track portions and switches.