Beginner has questions?

[Anonymous]

Hi all .... I'm just getting started in HO gauge layouts. I started with a Bachman Old Tyme Village Passenger kit which included E-Z track. I didn't use the E-Z track - I bought some standard nickel-silver track and cork roadbed. My question is this: can the inexpensive engine be so light that it doesn't track reliably? Of course I've learned everything the hard way (:<))

I've checked the ballast, cleaned the tracks, etc. and even removed the front wheels of the engine. I noticed that the front wheels weren't heavy enough to track reliably.

Thanks for you comments,

Dean Dameworth
Hartsville, SC

[Train 284]

First of all welcome to the forum! [#welcome] Glad to have you aboard!

Anyways, like Dave said, check the wheel gauge. That would be the first place to check.
The wheels on the truck could be to tight or to loose. If you can, try to get a NMRA wheel gauge. Just a thought.

Don't be afraid to ask any question around here, no matter how stupid you think it is. Everyone is always willing to help!

[ARTHILL]

Welcome to the hobby. I don't have that engine, but I have never found an engine too light to run at all. Some won't pull much. There are a lot of connections where a little dirt can cause a break in current. Have you cleaned the tires on the engine, specially the flanges? Does the engine run on low voltage when it is off the track and you apply power directly to the wheels. Sometimes things get sticking inside and just stall out. Are all the interior wire connections solid? Good luck, Hope to hear from you again soon.

[loathar]

I had a cheap loco with pilot wheels where too light. Glueing a fishing sinker on it helped the problem.Some locos have springs mounted on the pilot to help pu***hem down on the track. Check your wheel gauge and check for binding as stated above.[#welcome]

[selector]

Run a finger in the area where the truck is meant to pivot to see if there is anything that might be acting as a burr or an obstacle. I take it that it pivots freely, without jerking or binding when under load or hanging freely? It is lubricated? If its retaining screw and washer are overtight, they may prevent it from either pivoting or rocking to accommodate irregularities and curves. Does it swing in equal arcs of at least 20 degrees on either side of dead centre?

My first step would also be to check gauge and to spring or weight the truck.

Good luck. Once you find the solution, would you consider reporting your findings here for the benefit of others?