Bachmann saddletanker and LGB switch problem

[vsmith]

I picked up a NIB Bachmann saddletank Porter at the BTS this last weekend and I have noticed an unusual problem with it.

When crossing my LGB 12000 switches, where the engine is on the curved diverging track moving towards the points, it will jam hard and solid, the lead axle flang, into the frog and will stop cold, or strike and bounce of with a noticable "clunk".

I remembered that others here had mentioned that the engine was nose heavy so I added some metal weights into the cab and the engine ran much smoother thru the switches.

Anyone else notice this? Is this the correct solution to this problem? HELP!

[toenailridgesl]

Sounds like a gauge problem. Check the back-to-back distances between the drive wheels and report back,

[Anonymous]

Hi Vic,
If your wheel gauge is correct check the track gauge at the frog point. You may be able to correct a track gauge problem by glueing a strip of plastic along the back side of the guard rail to force the wheels away from the frog.

OLD DAD....Larry T.

[Anonymous]

LGB switches do stick, I have three and they all stick sometimes. Are you going into them facing or trailing when this happens?My trouble is trailing and the switch sticks halfway.

Rgs Ian kawana

[vsmith]

I checked the gauge and there is a difference.

Gauge inside back of flange to inside back of flange is :

40 mm at front wheels

41 mm at rear wheels

The frogs of the switches is not the problem, there is someting going on with the engine itself.

[toenailridgesl]

Vic, both wheel sets need to be at 41mm. The wheels just slide on the axles so pull on the front wheels until you get the right back-to-back spacing. Unfortunately the lower end Bachmann models only have press-fit wheels on the axles, unlike the topend stuff that has screws. At least it's an easy fix

[vsmith]

Thanks for the straight answer.

I'll try to wedge them out by gently prying them against the frame with a flat screwdriver I should be able to get them aligned correctly. Then we'll see how it works , I and still planning on adding some weight to the rear to balance it out better.