Marx/Lionel Track Incompatibility

I am aware of the problem with running Marx locos on Lionel switches. This past weekend, I also discovered that my old Marx 0-4-0 loco has a problem with the Lionel 027 45 degree crossover. Is there any way to fix this problem, or do I have to scour ebay for old Marx track in order to run this old train on anything but an oval? Are there any modern track solutions that will allow the Marx to operate?

Thanks!

What is the problem? Is the locomotive derailing or stopping? I’m running Marx over a Gargrave crossing (90 degree though) that I had to work on a bit, actually more than a bit to increase the depth for the wheel flanges. But this was for a Marx 2-4-0 and a 4-6-2.

Check the drive wheels. If the wheel has the notches for the gear on the inside edge that extra thickness is what lifts the drivers up and over the switch or crossover. Marx allowed for that thickness in there track work. Later engines the notches were moved closer to the axle and will work without jumping at the switch.

I ran into this very same problem. I found the Marx 333,666,and 1666 steamers with the double reduction gear motors run threw O-27 Lionel switches and even a 90 degree crossover. My 999 with the large gear on the driver will derail or jump into reverse. I tried using a marx 90 degree crossing and everything ran great until I tried a postwar geep and it stalled going threw the marx crossing. I have since dismantled my small layout and just run one make at a time on temporary floor layouts.

With few exceptions, Marx’s 0-4-0 locos won’t make it through a Lionel crossover because the drive wheels are too thick–same problem as the switches. Unfortunately Lionel locos, due to the pickup rollers, don’t do well at all on Marx crossovers.

Best bet is to take a Lionel crossover and use a file to widen the grooves in the center to accomodate the fat wheel. It’s tedious work.

Howdy Dave,

Long time no posting but you haven’t changed a bit in that photo! Glad to hear/see/read you again.