Hello, i just bout my first n scale switcher today and i find that it keeps derailing the train, it an atlas switcher manual. does anyone know the reason or how to fix it, any suggestions would be very helpful,
thanks
Firstly, check that the wheelsets are in gauge (your LHS should be able to sell you a gauge to check this and may be able to help is they’re out of gauge - with N scale adjusting this is a very delicate operation). Also, check that the trucks are free to rotate and can also rock a little fore and aft and side to side - sometimes a wire can become trapped and stop the truck from moving freely. I’m unsure from your question whether you mean that the switcher is derailing or that the cars behind it are derailing - if this is the case, and they pose problems with your other locos, try adding some ballast.
If these fail, try running the loco slowly over the trouble spot and watch what happens. I had a series of puzzling derailments caused by Kadee magnets until I realised that the back to back on my locos was set too narrow, causing the loco to run up onto the uncoupler ramp and jump the rails!
Are you taking about the a manual track “switch”, or are you talking about an engine “switcher?”
Generally, most modelers refer to the track as either turnouts or “switches” as the part of the track where you move trains from one main line to another or siding. The term “switcher” usually refers to a type of engine, usually used in yard service. These are the smaller engines.
If in fact you tallking about track, I’ve had similar trobule with some of my Atlas HO switches. I found sanding down the frogs a bit helps ease the wheels sets in and out of this area which cut down on the derailments. I also found that most cars that derail were under the recommended weight. Check the track, but don’t forget the cars.
the manual yard switchers
switchers=locomotive
switches=track turnouts
manual yard switchers= (human hand (0-5-0)
Wayne