Stricltly speaking about performing on HO tracks, is there a differnce in how an engine performs based on wheel layout. It just seems that a 4-6-4 would stick better than a 0-4-0.
I would expect an 0-4-0 to be more likely to stall on un-powered frogs. Beyond that, I would think that the ability to “stick” would be more related to the weight and the guage tolerance of the locomotive rather than the wheel arrangement. I have a 4-6-2 that condtantly has its front truck de-rail because of problems with mounting.
SpaceMouse,
What do you mean by “stick better”? Pull more cars, stay on the track going around curves, maintain all wheels in contact with the rails at all times? The larger engine should pull more cars, have better electrical pickup, be more forgiving over dirty track or through switches with unpowered frogs than the smaller engine. If it jumps the track, or “walks over the rails” on the curves, you have a problem with the engine.
Now, if you are racing them through tight curves, well, the larger engine may have more of a tendency to come flying off the rails than the smaller one.
Mark C.
I guess that really depends upon the engine. Logic would dicate the more wheels the better the traction capability. Usually, as long as the track is kept clean and also the pickup wheels on the engine then performance will be as best as that particular type of engine will allow.
Usually engines with an 0-4-0 designation are designed for switching in yards and industries and are not really for the over the road hauling. Engines with front and rear wheels are such as the 4-6-4 are you engines for pulling on the main line.
The simple answer is yes, wheel arrangement is going to make a performance difference.
I don’t know if by the term “stick” you mean getting traction, or not derailing. Sometimes the leading and trailing wheels on models are just there for looks and they can have a derailing problem. Bigger wheel base locomotives aren’t going to perform as well in tight corners or sudden changes in grade. Bigger wheel base locomotives are generally going to get better traction and pull better than small ones.
Weight, balance and wheels are the critical parts in the equation.
Simon: I have had issues with pilots and have found that ballasting them, insuring clearances are maintained makes a big difference. The use of Pine Car weights (zinc)is one option, lead sheeting another, though there is a health concern.
Fergie