I recently acquired two Lionel Dash 8 locomotives, one is 18205 UP Dash 8 40C #9100 (1989) and the other is18206 Santa Fe Dash 8 40B #8206 (1990). I have Gargraves track curved to a 031 radius. The problem I am having is when I go through the curves, they both jump the track in either direction. The trucks swivel freely and there doesn’t seem to be any binding. I have lubricated where truck parts move against the base of the frame. I didn’t’ lubricate where the truck assembly slides against the frames lip. No wires are restricting the turning capabilities. I run Lionel Geeps and Williams without any problems.
Has anyone else experienced this? If so, how can I solve the problem? Many thanks, in advance, for your input.
Have you checked to see what the minimum recommended curve diameter is? If not in the engine manual you’ll need to find a caltalogue that had one of them in.
Thanks for your reply. I checked both the 1989 and 1990 Lionel catalogs as well as the instructions in the box and do not see any reference to track radius. I set up two sections of common O Gauge tubular track and find the trucks are at their max turning capabilities. The wheels fit on the track with almost no tolerance.
Thanks for your reply. The couplers are working freely. I haven’t coupled cars to these locos as I wanted to make sure they roll freely around my layout.
Does happen as it transitions into the curve or already into the curve ?
Does it happen in the same spot or randomly thru the curve ?
If it is happening in the same spot you might try checking the gauge of the track to make sure there aren’t any irregularities in the rails because it sounds as though the flanges are already fairly snug.
I’ve got the CNW version, and it was hopping curves too. The problem with mine was the little tabs on the trucks that go through the frame were bent down a bit and rubbed the frame. I bent them up a little so they weren’t hitting the frame (when it’s on the track), and it cured the problem.
Thanks for the reply. This happens as it transitions into the curve and at the same spot. I should mention that it doesn’t jump the track every time in either direction but more often than not. Have checked the guaging in several spots with a digital caliper and had less that .1 mm variation.
I have conrail SD 40, 60 and dash-8 wich are all very similar to your loco. All run around my tubular track 031 with no issues. You say you have checked the gauge of your gargraves curves, did you compare the gauge of your gargraves track with normal Lionel tubular? Maybe the gargraves is tighter and the engine can’t handle it when its combined with an 031 curve?? Also make sure you have no dips at that point. I have had issues with almost imperceptable dips in track that would only affect certain engines. Very annoying!!! One other comment, if you haven’t had the shell of one of those, there is a lot of stuff crammed inside and there could be a binding or tight wire or harness problem. They are a pita to get back together!!