5 Possible Reasons Your Model Train Is Derailing

Derailing is a problem that plagues new model train enthusiasts and veterans alike. It can happen whenever a car or engine wheel snags on the track, or even when an entire train rolls over. Here are five possible reasons your model train is derailing and how to fix it.

1. Dirty Equipment

Dust and grime can interfere with your model train in a number of ways. Firstly, too much grime on the wheels of your rolling stock can prevent them from connecting with the track properly.

The same problem can occur when the cars are clean but the track is dirty. If your track sits out when you’re not using it, you should always give it a quick dusting before use.

And lastly, too much grime on your electrical wiring or control system can also be a problem. The bottom line is to always keep everything as clean and tidy as possible!

2. Poor Balance

Many times, when a train is derailing, it’s because some of the cars don’t have enough weight. Weight allows gravity to keep the train in contact with the track at all times, but too little weight will decrease the gravitational pull and you’ll end up with a roll-over.

When you’re applying weights to your rolling stock, be sure to center them so that your cars maintain a low center of gravity. This is very important for rounding corners and curves.

3. Difficult Track Design

Sometimes, it’s not the train but the hobbyist who’s to blame for derailing. If all your trains are having trouble on the same piece of track, it may be that you installed a curve that’s too tight or a steep incline. Always be mindful of how long your cars are in relation to track curves.

One rule that can save you from derailing is to avoid placing curves after points, especially if there’s already another curve before the point. Ensure straights follow points and you’ll have much better luck.

4. Uneven Layout Surface

There’s a reason people build high-quality layouts on flat boards and tables—train tracks stabilize on a flat surface. If you’re running a track on a carpet, you should switch to something like a table for better results.

5. Wheel Gauge Is Off

Sometimes factory-made rolling stock can arrive with wheel gauge problems. Unless you’re extremely perceptive, you’ll probably need a back to back wheel gauge in order to tell. Once you’ve figured out where the problem is, you can readjust the wheel gauge.

We hope this list of reasons why your model train is derailing have been helpful. Here at Midwest Model Railroad, we work hard to supply you with largest and most well-organized collection of model train essentials like N scale rolling stock. We also sell amazing scenery decorations. Contact us if you have any questions or need help finding the right stock cars for your setup.