subject: How To Avoid Model Railroad Derailments [print this page] How To Avoid Model Railroad Derailments How To Avoid Model Railroad Derailments
Are you frustrated because your model railroad trains derail from time to time?
This was a major frustration for me. I'd fix one part of the track and the next day the train would derail on one other section.
It frustrated me to the point of wanting to provide the hobby away..!
A smooth working model train is a dream for most model train beginners. However it's actually quite easy to achieve with a little attention to detail.
Here are 7 ways to stop your model train derailing:
1 - Ensure every joint on your track is degree, aligned and properly fitted.
Feels like common sense? But poorly assembled track joints are the worst offenders for derailing model trains.
Slide your finger throughout the joint. It ought to really feel stage with the gap between the tracks stored to absolutely the minimum. I solder my joints as a result of this stops any issues with expansion and contraction opening and closing of the joints.
With a small file I'm able to create a repeatedly level track and have a beautifully smooth operating model train.
2 - Check your track gauge on joints, turnouts and frog assemblies.
Another common problem for model train derailments is inaccurate track gauge. A good track gauge will trigger the wheels to climb up and derail off the track.
A wide track gauge will also derail your model train as the wheel flanges cannot span the track properly. The gauge may be adjusted utilizing a soldering iron to gently heat the rail, moving the rail to the right place and allowing it to cool.
3 - Check your switch points for sharpness when they switch.
Some new switch points may be pretty blunt on the movable section the place it strikes up against the inventory rails. This can grab on the wheels and trigger a model train derailment.
A small file can be used to gently smooth the moveable a part of the points to allow a nice smooth transition. Keep in mind to check the gauge in each positions.
4 - Check all your model train couplers.
A snagging coupler will cause model train derailments. Some new carriages can include unpolished couplers which may catch and force derailments.
Clean off any tough edges and alter the couplers for correct centering. The manufacturers usually provide these instructions.
5 - Add extra weight to your freight cars.
I find that most freight cars are too light and sometimes all the wheels don't contact the rails equally. By adding a small quantity of weight to the cars your model train will run smoother and you will eliminate derailments, particularly on the tight radius's.
Simply make sure you add the weight as little as possible to the car and in the centre, protecting a low center of gravity.
6 - Verify all your wheel sets for proper operation.
Wheel sets which might be out of gauge, not aligned or moving freely will cause your model train to derail. Verify your wheel units and ensure that your carriages usually are not crabbing and forcing the wheel flanges into the rail, making it liable to derail.
The carriages ought to rock freely to take up any small imperfections in your track.
7 - Lubricate the squeaks.
Sometimes the smallest drop of light oil will cure an issue along with your model train derailing. An unlubricated or snaggy wheel, or coupler, can cause a slight tip over, or jar, which usually forces the wheel flange to snag the rail and derail your model train.
Oil attracts dust and may harm paintwork, so be sure to use only the smallest quantity required.
Now you have no reason to place up with your model train derailing.
