Factors That Could Cause Derailment In Model Trains

One of the most small yet irritating problem with model train hobby is derailments.  Figuring out the main source of the derailment can also eat up a lot of time and effort especially if it turns out on more than one track section.  One particular cause of model train derailments are dirt and dust and cleaning tracks, engines and cars is the first step to perform some trial and error.  After cleaning what needs to be cleaned, run your model train for a second time and if the derailment doesn’t occur 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 mainly if it happens in one section and careful investigation will be required to pinpoint the source of the problem.  Aside 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.  You have to be open-minded to be able to consider all possibilities as the part where the occurrence of the derailment may not always be the problem. 

Ensure 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. 

The cars and wagons that trail the locomotive can also trigger derailments in some cases.  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 occurs in just one section again and again, then the track’s positioning or alignment might be the culprit.  Level your sights down the particular track section because the angle could be in a slope which your locomotive can’t handle especially if the locomotive’s wheels are not 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 how many cars can be connected to the locomotive.  Model locomotives with six axles usually require a 22 degree curve radius and going much curvier 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.  Dips and bumps should also be checked as these could tilt or  jump the train. 

If you see no problem with the track’s positioning, check the cars and wagons and thoroughly examine each one especially their couplers, axles and wheels.  Low-mounted couplers should be elevated 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 coupling or wheel 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.

Since derailment problems can be due to lots of causes, patience and diligence is valuable towards zeroing-in on it and getting it fixed.  Being a model train hobbyist needs technical and problem solving skills and every modification and repair done is a satisfaction worth getting and learning in model train collecting.