Abstract: A track clearing device is described using hydraulic power for pushing apart rail vehicles which have been pushed into or onto each other. To provide such a track clearing device which may also be used successfully even where the anchorage resistance of the rails is very small and which enables derailed cars to be re-railed, an expander is provided comprising two pivotable expander arms, a pivot pin, two transverse guide pieces mounted so as to be displaceable by sliding and each having linked to it by articulated joints two lifter supports, two lifters and two displacement cylinders.