One of the most small but irritating problem with model train hobby is derailments. Pinpointing what’s causing the derailment can also be a time consuming and frustrating job particularly when more than one section of the track encounters it. 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 again and if the derailment doesn’t happen anymore, then the derailment was most likely caused by dirty bits and pieces.
If the model train still derail, a much relevant factor in the model train or railway setup could be the culprit particularly if it happens in one section and thorough investigation will be essential to find the source of the problem. Aside from the way tracks are positioned, other factors to bear in mind 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 area where the occurrence of the derailment may not always be the source of the problem.
Obstruction in the tracks could show the way to derailment or stoppage so make sure sceneries are not lying on any section of the track. Joints and nails of the tracks should also be thoroughly inspected. Make sure no nail heads are peeking up even if it’s only slight and make sure that no nail has a loose fit.
In some instances, extension of cars and wagons can also cause model train derailments. Disconnect all cars and wagons and just run the model locomotive by itself. If the locomotive derails in just one section over and over, the placement of the track could be the problem. Meticulously look at or measure the track’s degree angle because the track could be in a slope which is too much for your locomotive especially if its wheels are non-magnetized. The curvature of the track can also be a derailment factor.
Curved tracks are potential derailers and it is also important to consider the locomotive’s axle count as well as the number of cars to your model train extension. Model locomotives with six axles usually require a curve radius of 22 degrees and going below that would most likely derail the model train. How many cars can be connected should also be considered since centripetal force and inertia could be factors in derailment especially in tight turns at fast speeds. Also check for bumps and dips as these could deliver imbalance and tilting.
If you see no problem with the track’s positioning, each cars and wagons should be checked thoroughly especially their couplers, axles and wheels. Couplers should be mounted properly and should not be too low and all wheels should turn without difficulty. The width of the track should also determine the width of the wheels. If there is one or several coupling or wheel that is loose or tight, the basic solution is to re-mount them. If re-mounting doesn’t solve the problem, it might be time to replace them with new ones. Again, always clean everything that are meant to move.
Since derailment problems can be because of plenty of causes, it is important to be patient and thorough towards zeroing-in on it and fixing it. Model train hobbyists should have technical skills to enable to work out any problem that might come up and every customisation and repair accomplished is just one of the numerous satisfactions model train hobby brings.