Lionel Challenger Derailing

by Richard ...

Buy Locos

I have had tremendous problems of the Challenger staying on the track and not derailing. The problem is in the front lead truck that is not tracking freely. The solution for me was to remove the spring, take 1/4 oz lead weights and cut them down to size to fit over the front and rear wheels, screw assembly back into the locomotive, and use lots of grease around the screw in order to cut down on an friction. Check to see if the pivot slot has any burrs and lightly sand to remove any friction points of conflict.

It is also critical that one's track work is not sloppy. Since most modelers use HO flex track, it is important to not have any broken ties, add ties under the track where tracks are joined together, and most important - use a track gauge to measure the radius.

Best of luck,
Richard

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