A substantially load free anchor lock fastening assembly which comprises an anchor lock and a rail anchor, said anchor lock forming part of a plate or attachment to a tie or rail support, and containing an engaging and locking portion for providing a loose connection with the rail anchor, and said rail anchor containing portions adapted to engage with the base of a rail and loosely engage the anchor lock so as to enable the rail anchor to control the vertical position of the rail without exerting compressive forces between the rail and the rail support, said substantially load free fastening of the rail leaving the rail free to float.