Offshore Formation

One of the most minor but annoying problem with model train hobby is derailments.  Pinpointing what’s causing the derailment can also eat up a lot of time and effort particularly if it turns out on more than one track section.  Dirt or dusts is one factor that can cause derailments and cleaning tracks, engines and cars is the first step to carry out some trial and error.  Make several trial runs and if all goes okay, then it was just a minor thing that caused it and the it’s a lucky run for the model train enthusiast.

If the derailment continues, the problem could already be the assembly or technical particularly if it happens in one section and pinpointing the problem may call for further careful investigation.  Apart from the way tracks are positioned, other factors to take into account are additional locomotives or cars, and any changes in the scenery or layout.  It is essential to consider all possibilities in this kind of situation as the part where the occurrence of the derailment may not at all times be the problem. 

Make sure that no small or big piece of sceneries are obstructing the tracks.  You should also inspect track joints and nails carefully.  Nail heads should be embedded all the way in the railway’s platform and they should not go through the track holes. 

In some instances, extension of cars and wagons can also bring about model train derailments.  Determining this would also require elimination process so you have to disconnect the cars and wagons and let the model locomotive run solo.  If the derailment happens in just one section again and again, the placement of the track could be the problem.  Carefully look at or measure the track’s degree angle seeing as it could be tilted in a particular angle which might make your locomotive lose its balance especially if the locomotive’s wheels are not magnetized.  The curvature of the track can also be a derailment factor. 

Potential derailments can be caused by tight track curves and it is also important to consider the locomotive’s axle count 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 much curvier 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 especially in tight turns at fast speeds.  Dips and bumps should also be checked as these could cause tilts and jumps. 

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 problems.  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, re-mounting them maybe a care-free solution.  If the problem with couplings and wheels keeps coming back, replacing them is the only choice left.  Again, always clean everything that are meant to move.

Whether the derailment is caused by a small or big issue, patience and diligence is essential towards determining it and fixing it.  Technical and problem solving skills are just some qualities required for a model train hobbyist and every configuration and repair accomplished is just one of the various satisfactions model train hobby brings.