N-gauge Bachman Consolidation constantly derails

[Anonymous]

I just got an N-gauge Bachman Consolidation. The motor runs well, but the lead truck will NOT stay on the track. The problem occurs on both curves and turnouts (even the broad radius turnouts). I'm using Peco code 80 track throughout.

I've been careful with laying my track, and none of my other locomotives or cars have this chronic derailment problem. Is there something I can do to keep the lead truck from derailing?

Thanks for any advice on this.

[Wdlgln005]

Call Bachmann. Tell them about your problem. They may ask you to send it back for repair. You may get a new engine or something else for your trouble.

[mls1621]

Check the gauge of the pilot wheels, they may be too wide. That is something you can correct yourself without having to ship it anywhere.

If the gauge is correct, you might see if there's room to add some weight to the pilot, I have a Big Boy that derails the pilot from time to time. Lead sheets are available from your local hobby shop that can be cut to size and glued to the pilot. The main thing you need to be careful of is not shorting across the wheels.

Lastly, does the pilot swing side to side freely, if it's binding that may be the reason for the derailments. It might be nothing more than an anchor screw that's too tight.

I hope this gives you some ideas.