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Hornby R2581 BR 4-6-0 King Arthur Class N15 on HO Layout

John has an HO layout and sent in this question for readers:

“I have recently purchased a steam locomotive – a Hornby R2581 BR 4-6-0 king arthur class N15 ‘sir gwain’. This loco was purchased from a reputable dealer, but due to time restraints I was unable to see it test run. The unit is brand new and unused. Upon running the loco (without rolling stock) on an existing track, the loco front bogie continually derails when pasing over ‘points’. I have several diesel engine models and have not had the problem before. Is the trouble located with my track, or with the locomotive? Any constructive comments would be deeply appreciated.”

Comment below.

One Response to Hornby R2581 BR 4-6-0 King Arthur Class N15 on HO Layout

  • Geof says:

    John,

    Being a ‘Yank’ I can only assume that the front ‘bogie’ is the front truck of your locomotive. I’ve had similar issues with my steam locomotives (N gauge) and my solution was to place either a small weight on the ‘top’ of the truck (a couple metal washers glued in place usually did the trick) OR mount a small weak coil spring between the top of the truck and the underside of the engine’s body. The coil spring would provide a gentle downward pressure that would minimize the derailments you describe or using the metal weights instead would essentially produce the same effect. You might have to experiment a bit to make sure you don’t over do it with either approach.

    Hope this helps,

    Geof

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