Model Train Derailments
A small but irritating model train setback comes in the form of derailment. Figuring out the main source of the derailment can also prove difficult and frustrating if more than a few sections of the tracks get affected. Dirt or dusts is one factor that can cause derailments and cleaning tracks, engines and cars is the first move to do some trial and error. After cleaning what needs to be cleaned, run your model train once more and if the derailment doesn’t take place anymore, then cleaning did the job and you don’t have to worry about it anymore.
If the model train still derail, a much significant factor in the model train or railway setup could be the culprit particularly if it happens in one section and pinpointing the problem may entail further thorough investigation. Aside from the way tracks are placed, other factors to consider are additional locomotives or cars, and any changes in the scenery or layout. You have to be open-minded to be able to consider all possibilities as the spot where the derailment occurs may not always be the problem.
Any obstruction in the tracks could show the way to derailment or blockage so make sure sceneries are not lying on any part of the track. Track nails and joints should also be inspected precisely. Nail heads should be embedded all the way in the railway’s platform and they should not go through the track holes.
The cars and wagons that trail the locomotive can also cause derailments in some cases. Disconnect all cars and wagons and just run the model locomotive by itself. If the derailment happens in a particular track portion, the position of the track could be the problem. Level your sights along the particular track section seeing as it could be tilted in a certain angle which might make your locomotive lose its equilibrium especially if its wheels are non-magnetized. Another factor that could contribute to derailment is if the track is incompatibly curved for the model locomotive.
Curved tracks are potential derailers and it is also important to consider the number of axles in the model locomotive as well as the limit of cars that can be connected to the locomotive. Model locomotives with six axles usually require a curve radius of 22 degrees and going lower would most likely cause derailment at every pass. The number of extension cars and cabs should also be considered since centripetal force and inertia could play a role in derailment specially when the model train is going fast on tight turns. Other unintended inconsistencies like bumps or dips should also be sorted as these could tilt or jump the train.
If you see no problem with the track’s positioning, each cars and wagons should be checked thoroughly especially their couplers, axles and wheels. Make sure the couplers are not mounted too low and all wheels should easily turn. The width of the track should also determine the width of the wheels. If there is one or several wheel or coupling that is loose or tight, try to re-mount them if possible. If the problem with couplings and wheels keeps coming back, replacing them is the only option left. Once more, never forget to clean each wheel.
Whether the problem with the derailment has to do with small or big factors, it is important to be patient and thorough towards finding it and fixing it. Being a model train aficionado needs technical and problem solving skills and every modification and repair done is a satisfaction worth getting and learning in model train collecting.
This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 at 4:29 am and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.