Derailment in Portugal (photo courtesy Joao Rocha)

By John Branden 

It took me a long time to figure out the best way to stop derailment issues on my layouts.

Because I use N gauge trains and track which is quite small and tricky the problem may be exaggerated but these rules apply to all gauges.

I would fix one section of the track one day and the very next day I would get a derailment on a different section. This is frustrating because it make you nervous about the rest of the layout.

When trains run smoothly on the rails you feel really good about the layout. When a model train derails it can be a nightmare but it is actually quite easy to put right with a little attention to detail.

So my 8 ways to curing your model train derailments are:

1 – Ensure every joint on your track is level, aligned and properly fitted.

This is the most common fault and often is difficult to spot but it is a critical issue.

Keep the gap between rails to an absolute minimum, if you can feel the joint when you run your finger over it you have probably found the problem. If you are seeking security solder the joints because this stops any problems with opening and closing of the joints caused by temperature change or layout flexing. Clean up the soldered joint with a needle file. Just like the real thing, this creates a continuous track.

2 – Check your track gauge on joints, turnouts and frog assemblies.

Constant use and wear to the track components has the effect of either squeezing or opening the gauge. This is common but more pronounced on small gauge layouts. If you install the moving track sections accurately and securely you should have no problems.

3 – Check the rail end at the switch points.

Some new switch points can be fairly blunt on the movable section where it strikes up against the stock rails. This can grab on the wheels and cause a model train derailment. A needle file should be used to smooth the moveable part of the points to allow a smooth transition. Make sure the gauge is identical in the open and closed positions.

4 – Carefully check all train and rolling stock couplers.

A snagging coupler will cause derailments. New locomotives are sometimes delivered with snags on the coupler, as do some carriages. The manufacturers usually provide instructions on how to clean up, smooth out couplings and also for centring.

5 – Add some weight behind the locomotive.

Very often there is not enough weight bearing down through the wheels on to the track, especially with plastic rolling stock. By adding a small amount of weight to the cars your train will run more smoothly. Remember that when everything is running smoothly the chances of derailments are very low. Don’t use excessive weight and make sure you place it over the wheels and make sure that any load clears all you overhangs like bridges etc..

6 – Check all the wheels on each piece of rolling stock.

Alignment of all the wheels in a set is critical and then each set on a carriage should line up with each other. This stops any crabbing and if the gauge measurement between the flanges is constant you can go the next carriage. Wheel alignment seems obvious but is often not seen as a problem because there should not be a reason for them to move askew, but it can happen. Carriages should be free to rock just to take up any track imperfections.

7 – If anything is stiff or squeaking, lubricate it.

Oil is the answer to so many problems associated with derailments but is generally not used because it is difficult to apply in minute quantities which is important. Go down to the hobby shop and get a precision oil can that will cost 50 cents. Too much oil attracts dust and can damage paintwork, so make sure get that oil can.

8 – Just make sure everything is clean.

All parts of the track especially moving parts, all rolling stock and locomotives. All electrical connections and controls. We call if preventative maintenance.

If you keep you system clean and follow the advice derailments should be a thing of the past. Great help is given by the manufacturers now as quality standards have improved hugely.

Related Articles:

1. How To Avoid Model Railroad Derailments
2. Five Basic Steps For Building Model Railroads
3. Twin City Model Railroad Museum

This was a major frustration for me. I would fix one section of the track and the next day the train would derail on another section.

It frustrated me to the point of wanting to give the hobby away..!

A smooth running model train is a dream for most model train beginners. But it is actually quite easy to achieve with a little attention to detail.

Here are 7 ways to stop your model train derailing:

1 – Ensure every joint on your track is level, aligned and properly fitted

Sounds like common sense? But poorly assembled track joints are the worst offenders for derailing model trains.

Slide your finger across the joint. It should feel level with the gap between the tracks kept to the absolute minimum. I solder my joints because this stops any problems with expansion and contraction opening and closing of the joints.

With a small file I am able to create a continuously level track and have a beautifully smooth running model train.

2 – Check your track gauge on joints, turnouts and frog assemblies

Another common problem for model train derailments is incorrect track gauge. A tight track gauge will cause the wheels to climb up and derail off the track.

A wide track gauge will also derail your model train as the wheel flanges can not span the track properly. The gauge can be adjusted using a soldering iron to gently heat the rail, moving the rail to the correct position and allowing it to cool.

3 – Check your switch points for sharpness when they switch

Some new switch points can be fairly blunt on the movable section where it strikes up against the stock rails. This can grab on the wheels and cause a model train derailment.

A small file can be used to gently smooth the moveable part of the points to allow a nice smooth transition. Remember to check the gauge in both positions.

4 – Check all your model train couplers

A snagging coupler will cause model train derailments. Some new carriages can come with unpolished couplers which can catch and force derailments.

Clean off any rough edges and adjust the couplers for proper centering. The manufacturers usually provide these instructions.

5 – Add extra weight to your freight cars

I find that most freight cars are too light and sometimes all the wheels do not contact the rails equally. By adding a small amount of weight to the cars your model train will run smoother and you will eliminate derailments, especially on the tight radius’s.

Just make sure you add the weight as low as possible to the car and in the centre, keeping a low center of gravity.

6 – Check all your wheel sets for proper operation

Wheel sets that are out of gauge, not aligned or moving freely will cause your model train to derail. Check your wheel sets and make sure that your carriages are not crabbing and forcing the wheel flanges into the rail, making it prone to derail.

The carriages should rock freely to take up any small imperfections in your track.

7 – Lubricate the squeaks

Sometimes the smallest drop of light oil will cure a problem with your model train derailing. An unlubricated or snaggy wheel, or coupler, can cause a slight tip over, or jar, which usually forces the wheel flange to snag the rail and derail your model train.

Oil attracts dust and can damage paintwork, so make sure you use only the smallest amount required.

Now you have no reason to put up with your model train derailing.

It usually comes down to a small bit of maintenance from time to time. With the quality most manufacturers are producing today, and some ongoing maintenance, you can make model train derailments a thing of the past.

Related Articles:

1. 8 Steps to Curing Model Railroad Derailments
2. Twin City Model Railroad Museum
3. Model Railroading Beginners; Mistakes You Need To Avoid