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Constant Derailments
Warren sent in this question:
“I am in the process of constructing my rural country/mountain layout in HO scale 12ft x 4ft. I’m working on two tunnels right now and am about to lay the track where the tunnels will go. However, I have already had quite a few problems with my cars derailing at the switches so I don’t want to proceed until I can solve the derailments. I have replaced a few wheels on the cars, but the problem still exists. I would really appreciate it if one of your readers could give me some advice. Thanks in anticipation.”
4 Responses to Constant Derailments
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A few questions:
What kind of track are you using, what code is it?
What kind of turnouts are you using, code, and number (4, 6, 8)?
I have a 4′ by 17′ HO layout, and was using Atlas #4 turnouts. I had so much trouble with stalls on the frog and derailments thatI am tearing out all the Atlasturnouts and replacing them with Shinohara #4’s. Of course, this means relaying alot of track, but Shinohara turnouts are so much better (just my opinion).
I had a similar problem in N – found out that the wheels were out ( too narrow ) and were catching the point ends.
And also found one set of points didn’t convey power to the turnout due to poor point contact – I just soldered a short jumper and all was good again.
There are three main contributing factors with derailments at points, wheel spacing and flange clearance both of which are checked with the NMRA gauge. The third is weight.
If it is a particular car, check wheel sets and weight, if it is a particular set of points check the track gauge and clearance.
The NMRA gauge is one of the most used items in derailment trouble shooting. Check the gauge of all wheel sets at at least three to four places to ensure they are in gauge and square to the axle.
When checking the points ensure that the track is in gauge, almost all new track will be but if it has been used and relaid it may have been damaged slightly. You also need to check the flange way and point blade clearance so wheels don’t catch on them.
Incorrect weight will also contribute to derailments, if the rolling stock is too light it will be prone to derailments. Different scales have recommended weights, check this out and weigh your cars. Add weight to any that are too light.
When laying points it is also critical that they are level across and lin line. I use a miniature spirit level. To help also I don’t use rail joiners to connect the points to the rest of the track. I wire them independently so if you have a point motor failure you can easily change them over without disrupting the layout. Regards John