A small but annoying model train setback comes in the form of derailment.  Pinpointing what’s causing the derailment can also eat up a lot of time and attempt especially if it occurs 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 move to carry out some trial and error.  After cleaning what needs to be cleaned, run your model train again and if the derailment doesn’t come about to any further extent, then it was just a small thing that caused it and the it’s a lucky run for the model train enthusiast.

If the derailment persist, a much relevant factor in the model train or railway arrangement could be the culprit particularly if it happens in one section and pinpointing the problem may entail further meticulous investigation.  Aside from the way tracks are placed, other factors to think about are additional locomotives or cars, and any changes in the scenery or layout.  Being broad-minded is important in conditions like this as the area where the derailment happens may not always be the problem. 

Obstruction in the tracks could show the way to derailment or blockage so make sure sceneries are not lying on any part of the track.  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 cases, extension of cars and wagons can also cause model train derailments.  Run the model locomotive on its own without the cars and wagons.  If the locomotive derails in one portion of the track, the problem could be the arrangement of the track.  Level your sights down the particular track section given that it could be slanted in a particular angle which is too much for your locomotive especially if the locomotive’s wheels are not magnetized.  If that particular track is curved, it could also contribute to model train derailment. 

Potential derailments can be caused by tight track curves 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.  Six-axled locomotives usually require a 22 degree curve radius and anything 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 play a role 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.  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, re-mounting them maybe a care-free solution.  If the problem with couplings and wheels keeps coming back, it might be time to replace them with new ones.  Once more, never forget to clean each wheel.

While derailment problems can be because of a lot of causes, it is important to be patient and diligent towards finding it and fixing it.  Technical and problem solving skills are just some qualities needed for a model train hobbyist and every modification and repair accomplished is a satisfaction worth learning and having in model train collecting.

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