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Fixing Dead Spots On Crossing
Dave has this question:
“Does anyone know of anything that can be done to reduce dead spots when a loco passes thru crossing slow speed. Seems like the smaller the angle, the worse the performance (i.e. a 19 degree is much worse that a 12.5 degree crossing).”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
The sharper angled crossings usually have more plastic at the frog. If you hand push the loco over the crossing slowly and check:
1. Is the crossing lying flat? Slight warp will lift a contact wheel off the rail.
2. Is there a build up of gunk in the frog area that will lift a contact wheel off the rail?
3. Check the gauge of your locomotive wheels. You might have to run a file through the checkrail and frog area.
4. Older locomotives have very deep flanges that will lift a contact wheel off the rail. Either re-wheel or try to file them down.
Use live frog points.
Or live frog crossings, to pick up on what you actually asked.