CamelBack engine jumps track going through Gargraves 072 turnout

[cruikshank]

We just started laying switches and track for the club layout.  We tested a line using an Atlas Camelback 2-6-2 ,I believe, 3 rail.  On the straight path no problems, when we turn the switch, manually with caboose groundthrow, for the curved turnout the engine jumps the track, it appears to happen at the Frog.  Anyone else experience this? what can / should we do to prevent it? There are no kinks in the track and the switch is mounted flat to the roadbed.  Thanks, Dave

[Roger Bielen]

Try easing the engine through the switch, either at a very low speed or by hand, to determin the exact location and cause of the derailment.  I've had an occasion where a pick-up roller was locking up and lifting the engine going over uncoupling sections that were a hair higher than the center rail.  I've also run into frogs on older GG switches that were too shallow.

[bfskinner]

Dave (cruikshank)

Recently had problem (with different equipment) where the brand new compression-spring that was supposed to keep the loco's front trucks down tightly on the tracks was too soft. On the switch, the front truck bounced sufficiently to short out. Cured it by replacing the spring. The original spring was entrapped on a slender rivet and appeared to be difficult to replace, but in fact it was easy to "unscrew" the spring itself from around its post and replace it. I had to experiment a little to adjust the new spring (by cutting off a turn or so) to get the proper pressure.

This doesn't really sound like your problem, but the info might help somebody else.

[phillyreading]

Could be one of two problems, the first is that the engine itself may be too light and for that you will need to add weight to it, the second could be a bent wheel if it is over two years old.

With Gargraves track you must have the track very level at the switches as this too can be a facter.  If the problem still persist try using Ross Custom switches instead.

Lee F.

 

[eZAK]

Also check to see if the switch is mounted too tight. Warping can accur. Back off the screws a bit if screwed down.