H.O. Model Trains — 7 Ways To Avoid HO Model Train Derailments
A major frustration of the H.O. model train enthusiast occurs when their train derails. It may not happen a lot but when it does it can cause all sorts of H.O. Train angst. The purpose of this article is to help the H.O. model train enthusiast avoid model train derailment by providing seven quick tips. If these tips are followed a smooth running H.O. model train can become a reality.
First, Make sure every joint on your layout is level, aligned and fitted appropriately.
This may sound like common sense and it is but more times than not poorly constructed track joints are the greatest offenders for taking the H.O. train off the track.
Thankfully this is simple to fix and brings quick results. Move your finger across the joints to see if there is a discontinuity. It should feel continuous with no gaps between the tracks. I fuse my joints together because this stops any problems with expansion and contraction of the joints. Using a small file I am able to create a continuously level track.
Second, Make sure to check your track gauge near joints and track turnouts.
Another frequent reason for model train derailments is incorrect track gauge. Remember that for H.O. Trains the track gauge should be 16.5 mm at every part of the track. This 16.5 mm may change at weaker parts along the track such as joints. A tight track will cause the train cars to climb up and come off the track.
If the track is too wide the train will also derail as the wheels cannot span the track properly. To adjust the width simply use a soldering iron to gently heat the rail. Once the rail is hot it is much more easily moved. Once you have the rail track where you want it allow it to cool.
Third, Ensure that your switch points are sharp when they switch.
Occasionally switch points can be fairly dull on the movable section where it strikes up against the stock rails. This may grasp on the wheels and cause a model train derailment.
To fix this use a small file to smooth the movable portion of the switch points allowing for a smooth transition of the H.O. model train. Also be sure to keep an eye on the gauge between each of the positions.
Fourth, Check all your H.O. model railroad couplers.
A snagging coupler will cause the model train to fall off the track. If you are using new carriages they frequently come with unpolished couplers which can catch on various things and cause derailments.
Most manufacturers offer instructions on how to clean the couplers. If in doubt simply sharpen any rough edges and adjust the fasteners for proper centering.
Fifth, Add extra weight to your transportation cars.
You will find that most transportation cars are too lightweight and occasionally all the wheels remain on the tracks equally. The solution is fairly simple, providing fast results. By adding a small amount of weight to the cars your model train will run smoother and your train will not fall off the track, especially when the trains are going around tight bends.
Note that when you add weight to your model trains you should try to place the weight as low as possible to the car and in the center, allowing a low center of gravity.
Sixth, Make sure your wheel pieces are in good operation.
Wheel sets that move easily, are out of gauge and not aligned will cause your model train to fall off the track. Make sure that your wheel sets are not crabbing and forcing the wheel rims into the rail, making it prone to fall off the track.
Allow your wheel sets to move freely so that they can navigate the tiny inconsistencies in your track. If they are too tight the model train is more likely to fall off the track
Seventh, Make sure your train layout is well lubricated.
Simple as it sounds sometimes the smallest drop of light oil will cure your H.O. model train derailing. An unoiled wheel, or coupler, can cause a jar, which most likely forces the wheels to snag the rail track thus forcing your model train off track. Regular and simple maintenance can save you a lot of head ache in the future.
Keep in mind that lubricant attracts dust, so make sure you use only the smallest amount required.
It is our hope that this article has given you seven helpful things that you can do to avoid a model train derailment. Now its your job to put into practice these strategies so that H.O. model train derailments will be a thing of the past.
derailments is incorrect track gauge. Remember that for H.O. Trains the track gauge should be 16.5 mm at every part of the track. This 16.5 mm may change at weaker parts along the track such as joints. A tight track will cause the train cars to climb up and come off the track.
If the track is too wide the train will also derail as the wheels cannot span the track properly. To adjust the width simply use a soldering iron to gently heat the rail. Once the rail is hot it is much more easily moved. Once you have the rail track where you want it allow it to cool.
Third, Ensure that your switch points are sharp when they switch.
Occasionally switch points can be fairly dull on the movable section where it strikes up against the stock rails. This may grasp on the wheels and cause a model train derailment.
To fix this use a small file to smooth the movable portion of the switch points allowing for a smooth transition of the H.O. model train. Also be sure to keep an eye on the gauge between each of the positions.
Fourth, Check all your H.O. model railroad couplers.
A snagging coupler will cause the model train to fall off the track. If you are using new carriages they frequently come with unpolished couplers which can catch on various things and cause derailments.
Most manufacturers offer instructions on how to clean the couplers. If in doubt simply sharpen any rough edges and adjust the fasteners for proper centering.
Fifth, Add extra weight to your transportation cars.
You will find that most transportation cars are too lightweight and occasionally all the wheels remain on the tracks equally. The solution is fairly simple, providing fast results. By adding a small amount of weight to the cars your model train will run smoother and your train will not fall off the track, especially when the trains are going around tight bends.
Note that when you add weight to your model trains you should try to place the weight as low as possible to the car and in the center, allowing a low center of gravity.
Sixth, Make sure your wheel pieces are in good operation.
Wheel sets that move easily, are out of gauge and not aligned will cause your model train to fall off the track. Make sure that your wheel sets are not crabbing and forcing the wheel rims into the rail, making it prone to fall off the track.
Allow your wheel sets to move freely so that they can navigate the tiny inconsistencies in your track. If they are too tight the model train is more likely to fall off the track
Seventh, Make sure your train layout is well lubricated.
Simple as it sounds sometimes the smallest drop of light oil will cure your H.O. model train derailing. An unoiled wheel, or coupler, can cause a jar, which most likely forces the wheels to snag the rail track thus forcing your model train off track. Regular and simple maintenance can save you a lot of head ache in the future.
Keep in mind that lubricant attracts dust, so make sure you use only the smallest amount required.
It is our hope that this article has given you seven helpful things that you can do to avoid a model train derailment. Now its your job to put into practice these strategies so that H.O. model train derailments will be a thing of the past.
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