Model Trains Layouts - Are Derailments a Problem for You?

Model trains layouts sometimes give us some bother because our model trains derail from time to time -- often in the same spot. Does this frustrate you just like it did me? Sometimes I would fix the problem in one place, only to have my model train derail in another place entirely! We all want our model train layout to be running smoothly all of the time, but if it doesn't work as well as we would like then you may, like me, have thought seriously about stopping for a while.

It turns out that it is not that difficult for your model train set to run with minimal derailments -- all you need is a little attention to detail, a little patience, and these seven tips:

1. Check that the joints between tracks are aligned, properly fitted, and smooth

Yes, I know this sounds like common sense, and it is -- but one of the worst offenders for causing model trains to derail is poorly-assembled track joints. The best tool to use to detect this sort of problem is the tip of your finger: slide it across the joint and feel for any abnormalities -- the joint should feel level, and the gap between the tracks should be as small as possible. Some people solder their track joints because this avoids any problems with expansion and contraction causing the joints to open and close and hence become misaligned. If you do solder the joints, use a small fine file to make the joint completely smooth. Your track layout will be continuous and level, and your model train should run beautifully.

2. Ensure that the track gauge is correct on joints, frog assemblies, and turnouts

One other common cause of train derailment is if the track gauge is not correct. If the track gauge is light then the wheels on the train will climb up and the train will derail. On the other hand, if the track gauge is too wide then your train could still derail because the wheel flanges are not able to span the track correctly. Your track's gauge can be adjusted with a soldering iron: very carefully heat the rail, move it to the correct position, and then let it cool.

3. Check that your switch points are sharp when they switch

Sometimes a new switch point is rather blunt on the movable section where it hits the stock rails, and this can catch the wheels and make your train derail. Use a small file on the movable part of the joints to smooth it so that the transition will be nice and smooth. When you have finished, make sure the gauge of the track in both switch positions is correct (see point 2 above).

4. Check all of the couplers on your model trains work properly

If one of your couplers is snagging then it can cause your train to derail. Sometimes a new train carriage has couplers that are not as polished as they might be, and they can catch, interrupting the smooth operation of your train and causing a derailment. Correction is simple enough: clean off any roughness on the couplers and adjust them to make sure they are correctly centered (instructions for doing that are usually available from the manufacturers).

5. Freight cars are too light

It is important that all of the wheels on all components of your model train engage with the track rails equally, and failure in this area can cause derailments. Sometimes this is because freight cars are too light. Simply add some weight to the freight cars, and you will find that your train will run smoother and derailments will be much reduced, especially on tight bends. Just make sure that any weight you add is as low as possible to ensure a low center of gravity, otherwise your freight cars will still cause derailments.

6. Ensure your wheels are mechanically sound

The wheels on your model train have to work properly -- they must be within gauge, they must be aligned, and they must turn freely -- otherwise derailments are almost guaranteed. Check all of your wheel sets to make sure they work how wheels should work! You will not be able to completely eliminate imperfections in your track, and your carriages should rock freely to compensate.

7. Lubrication is important

Sometimes, even after all of the above adjustments and filing, there is still some snagging -- some place where two components do not move together as smoothly as they should. In that case, try a little oil. And I do mean a little -- since oil attracts dust and it can sometimes damage your beautiful paintwork, you don't want to use more than is absolutely necessary. Sometimes even a single drop of oil may be too much, in which case you will have to apply it with the tip of a pin or some such implement.

So that's it! If your model train layout is annoying you because of derailments, you have seven ways to attack the problem. All you need is a little routine maintenance now and then to anticipate the problems we have outlined, and model train derailments will be a thing of the past.

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