Model train derailments are one of those small problems that can become very irritating. Pinpointing what’s causing the derailment can also be very trying and frustrating if quite a few divisions of the tracks get affected. Model train derailments can be caused by dusts and dirt and cleaning tracks, engines and cars is the simplest measure to do in zeroing in on the problem. Do some trial runs and if all goes okay, then cleaning did the job and you don’t have to worry about it any longer.
If the derailment persist, there is perhaps a much deeper cause mainly if it happens in one section and pinpointing the problem may require further meticulous investigation. Apart from the track’s layout, other factors to take into account are additional locomotives or cars, and any changes in the scenery or layout. Being broad-minded is important in situations like this as the spot where the derailment occurs may not at all times be the problem.
Ensure that no small or big piece of sceneries are obstructing the tracks. Joints and nails of the tracks should also be carefully inspected. Nails should have a packed fit on where they are seated and loose ones should be examined immediately and corrected if needed.
The cars and wagons that trail the locomotive can also cause derailments in some cases. Determining this would also have need of elimination process so you have to disconnect the cars and wagons and let the model locomotive run solo. If the locomotive gets derailed in one portion of the track, the placement of the track could be the problem. Level your sights along the specific track section seeing as the track could be in a slope which your locomotive can’t handle especially if its wheels are non-magnetized. If that particular track is curved, it could also contribute to model train derailment.
Curved tracks are potential derailers and it is also important to consider the locomotive’s axle count and also the limit of cars that can be connected to the locomotive. usually require a 22 degree curve radius and going below that would most likely derail the model train. The number of extension cars and cabs should also be considered since centripetal force and inertia could be factors 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 cause tilts and jumps.
If there’s no problem with the position of the tracks, check the cars and wagons and thoroughly examine each one especially their couplers, axles and wheels. Couplers should be mounted properly and should not be too low and all wheels should easily turn. The width of the wheels should also be properly set according to the track’s width. If there is one or several coupling or wheel that is loose or tight, try to re-mount them if possible. If re-mounting doesn’t solve the problem, it might be time to replace them with new ones. Once more, never forget to clean all wheel.
Whether the derailment is caused by a small or big issue, patience and diligence is vital towards finding it and fixing it. Being a model train enthusiast requires technical and problem solving skills and every modification and repair done is a satisfaction worth getting and learning in model train collecting.
