I have a variety of USA and Aristo engines. All run well except for my Alco FA-1. The problem is that it continuously derails. I suspect the problem is with the wheels themselves. Any ideas on how to resolve this issue? Sources for parts? Thanks.
Doug1953 I have a variety of USA and Aristo engines. All run well except for my Alco FA-1. The problem is that it continuously derails. I suspect the problem is with the wheels themselves. Any ideas on how to resolve this issue? Sources for parts? Thanks.
No real ready source since the fire sale, but you can find parts if you look.
How old is the unit? Does it have axle stubs that extend outward into the journal box bearings?
What is the back-to-back reading on each axleset, starting at the front?
Are any wires pinched between truck and frame? Holding loco in one hand and manually, lightly, rotating the trucks through all angles shows no impediment to said free rotation?
What kind of couplers (can make a difference, even if no coupled to anything)?
Where does this occur?
Straight track, RH curve, LH curve?
Switches?
Dave
Curmudgeon Are any wires pinched between truck and frame? Holding loco in one hand and manually, lightly, rotating the trucks through all angles shows no impediment to said free rotation? What kind of couplers (can make a difference, even if no coupled to anything)? Where does this occur? Straight track, RH curve, LH curve? Switches? Dave
I would add;
Do derailments occur in same locations?
At derail locations, is the rail to rail spacing correct? Any possibility that wheels are "picking" an off centered rail joint? or balast debris too close (too tall) to rail?
Tom Trigg
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