derailments at turnouts

[Anonymous]

I have an N scale layout that was given to me as a gift. It's not a great set (Life-Like with power-Loc track). I really want to get into the hobby but have only one question so far. Why does my train constantly derail at the turnouts. My deisel usually will make it through no problem but my freight cars seem to get stuck on the turn out. If I run them straight everything is fine. I can't seem to find anything wrong with the track and I've replaced the turnout once already. Are my cars too light?

[Jacktal]

You probably have the answer on your own.Most rolling stock come too light and can beneficiate from weight adding.There are charts that state proper weights for model train cars,on NMRA's website I believe..

You could also have slight wheel gauge offsets.If the wheels are too narrow,they tend to dip between the rails,if they're too wide,they ride on the flange so that they try to jump over the rail.A slight offset may not show on continuous tracks but most often will be a headache at turnouts.Wheel flanges may also be too high so that they hit the turnout frogs.It may also be the turnout itself that is the problem.

As you can see,there are quite a few possibilities.I suggest you get the NMRA gauge,it will permit you to check all these measurements.It's not expensive and most serious hobby shops have it in stock.You can also order it "online" at the NMRA's website,I think.

Model Railroader Magazine's website has a fine article explaining how to "banish derailments",you could take a look at it too.

[Anonymous]

Aside from the above mentioned you may also want to take a small needle file and gently sharpen the points as the stock points can be rather blunt. heres a test for you , take your thumbnail and run along the outside stock rail through the diverging route of the turnout if it hangs up your trains will too. I do N Scale so i am know all bout them damn pesky turnouts!! i still got one or two the like to give me hell when i aint lookin or payin reeal close attention! there slated for replacment soon as funds allow

Hope this helps ya

Regards

Larry

[bruce22]

also check the gauge between the frog and guardrail .