Hello Charlie, love your latest video. As you know I model in Scalefour which has a track gauge of 18.83 mm, and a flange depth of only .66mm, as I model Southern Region EMU’s in the 60’s the maximum line speed on my layout is a scale 70 mph, which to some modellers might seem a bit slow. As for couplings, because the LNER (and some A4 locomotives), the Southern Railway, and early British Railways coaching stock where coupled together using buckeye couplers, all my coaches are fitted with Kadee couplings, for my goods wagons and NPS I continue to use 3 link or screw couplings. So why do I think I know why my fellow OO modellers have derailments. 1: First and foremost they run their trains far too fast, most real trains have speed restrictions and don’t travel at 150mph everywhere. 2: OO curved setrack rails are too tight, high speeds plus sharp curves equals a derailment, and it also causes buffer locking. When I started modelling in P4/S4 with .66 mm wheel flanges, I had a lot of derailments, so I relaid my track correctly. I removed any kinks in my track laying, then I built in transition curves and superelevation on to my curved track, allowing higher train speeds and to give my track a more realistic look ( Flexi track is best for transition curves and normally cheaper) 3: And most OO rolling stock is too light, running locomotives at high speed pulling light weight rolling stock causes the rolling stock to bounce off the rails. I was once advised to weight a standard 4 wheel goods wagon to at least 50 to 60 grams. I hope this reply to your excellent video will help other modellers to solve their derailment problems, as it took me many years to solve mine. PS. Did you manage to find an old Wills track cleaning wagon ? Best Regards Barry
IIRC BR had a similar problem with 4-wheel 9' wheelbase wagons bouncing of the rails on CWF track that had been ballasted for high speed running, and that the speeds involved were speeds that the wagons happily ran in sectional track
What an excellent comment Bazza. I couldn’t agree more. McKinley produced a video on the “weight of freight” and is well worth a watch. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie the comment about other youtubers not showing derailments and thus everyone else thinking it doesn't happen in absolutely true. I've been struggling a lot with derailments on my first loft layout and this is so enlightening!
Hello Charlie,. I know you are very busy (especially reading messages) so I'll be terse. For you to say that all model railways have derailments, and that they are not recorded, I thought, was absolutely brilliant. I for one, look at many layouts (yours inclusive) and think... how brilliant it must be to own a model railway to have an impeccable running session. So far from the truth. I loved the pugnacious approach to addressing the issue, and I thank you dearly. Thanks Charlie Lee
Hi Charlie, another fantastic video as a newbie to model railways I found the amount of electric boxes and wiring frightening it seemed to me they were everywhere along your layout, then I look at mine and see 4 boxes and think I must be doing something wrong lol , keep up the brilliant informative vids and thank you.
“If a picture paints a thousand words” you have written several books with your stripped back no nonsense educational video. Thank you, for demonstrating such an important subject.
Hi Charlie, I'd just like to say I've found this video and the last few videos very informative with plenty of tips I'll be taking onboard. So a big thank you, brilliant stuff. That's not to say your other videos are not informative, quite the contrary.🙂 Cheers, Julian
Thank you so much for another superb video. Funnily enough I’ve just been doing some test running and kept on getting derailments with Hornby coaches. It turned out to be the kinetic couplings that, unlike the Bachmann ones, have rough pieces on the rubbing plates between the coupling and the rear of the headstock. This stopped the coupling returning to ‘normal’ after a curve. (If that makes sense). A little work with an abrasive stick sorted things out but it just goes to show how many variables there are in investigating derailment causes. Just like the real thing then. Looking forward to the building of helix 2. Tony
Super interesting video, you have such a calming way of explaining subjects and your humour at times makes me chuckle. Just wish my Covid would clear up because every time I laugh it gives me a coughing fit. Thanks again , you are a star.
Great to here that you allso accept railway modeling is not a perfect science, over my many years of modelling Iike you have become a realist about these problems and accepted them as part of the norm .Your very good vid goes a long way to helping all modellers to improve the troublesome trucks,great stuff Rob A
Sadly many are to quick to blame manufacturers not their track work or choice of surface to lay their track on. Good to see this being discussed by a couple of serious channels that don't take the mick. Always a chuckle to be had at people being so angry that their models derail when even real railways are yet to fully eliminate this issue even with billions of research and centuries of improvement.
train kits and other bits, Thank you for your reply earlier. I honestly cannot find my origianl comment that you replied to. In Australia, the local machine shops have also disappeared, or are disappearing. It is something I considered, but the cost of fuel would really add up. I have ordered a back-to-back from one UK Shop, that had reasonable postage charges. Cheers, and stay safe, Michael
@@michaelimpey1407 all good, and yeah in some places there has been a decline in businesses that could do it but maybe im spoilt for choice in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne I could tell you of probably 20 places that you could walk up and get one made no issues.
@@Samstrainsofficially , when I lived in Melbourne I would agree with you, same with Hobart. I am now on the Central Coast of NSW, and just not around anymore. Not enough work, and better opportunities elsewhere I assume. Cheers Michael
Thanks for your very interesting and informative video presentation Charlie. I always enjoy watching your videos. The information presented is practical and helpful. With a bit of humour thrown in. I particularly like the wheel cleaner. I agree with your thoughts on track, couplings and wheels to have a well running train. Something I do to check if a Rail vehicle is the right length for a curve. I set the vehicle. (Be it a locomotive or wagon, passenger or freight). On the curved track. If the couplers, when centred with the wagon are inside the 4 foot. And the coupler is in the track centre when pushed to its full range of travel in the coupler box. The Rail vehicle is the correct length for the curve. This is for body mounted couplers of course. Which is why, as you no doubt know. Many manufacturers have bogie mounted couplers. So the longer wagons and locomotives are able to successfully negotiate tighter curves. Clearance testing is also an important part of layout design. Especially when running American articulated steam locomotives as I do.
Charlie, first off it was nice to meet you at the west camel railway clubs open day, Managed to pick up another Class 50 for £75 which was an absolute steel! We have plenty of derailments, especially on the lift up section. Normally caused by alignment of joins, we also have issues with bogies on some rolling stock being over tightened. We had an absolute nightmare with Hornbys Pullman coaches, Glad to say its now resolved but had to change out couplings.
Sage advice on wheel gauge that I'd extend to the entire truck. Gauge is critical, especially important to check out of the box & whenever you buy used. The connection between truck and body is also critical. I have a used HO boxcar that's pristine looking. But hold it upside down and turn the trucks like they're going through curves and you can actually watch the screws turning themselves out. It would literally lose its trucks after a few clockwise runs around a layout. Setting the tightness on all new & new-to-you rolling stock... er... wagons, and check it again after a dozen or so good uses is equally good for avoiding problems.
Charlie: You boldly address issues that every model railroader has to deal with. The dreaded derailment! Weight of cars, curve radius, turnouts, and coupler design. All the books and articles I read emphasized defining the minimum radius for your layout. This especially important with long cars. Most of these items are intuitive but there isn’t a one of us the sets a standard and just break the rules. I use mostly #6 turnouts (versus #4’s). Great video.
Great video again, Charlie. We all know Rule 1 of model railways: Rule 2 is that wagons and coaches will only derail when you are not watching them. :-) I first came across the kinematic close couplings in the 1970s on Röwa coaches (German HO but 1:100 length). We bought a few from Victors (RIP) and were amazed when we got them home and on the layout to find that they not only coupled corridor connection to corridor connection, but also went round our dodgy trackwork. Röwa went bust, and were bought out by Roco, who continued to make them, though Röwa's designer, Willi Ade, went his own way, and produced fine scale proper 1:87 models of the 26.4m long coaches. Amazed the Lux cleaner didn't send the dogfish flying. Weight in goods wagons has always been an issue (I guess because it's not as easy to hide a weight under the seats like in passenger coaches) - as I'm sure you're aware, throwing a few nuts in may not work, as the centre of gravity may be too high: you need to get the weight as low as possible.
I had a rake of those hoppers and they were constantly derailing on tracks that were good for the rest of my rolling stock so I got rid of them and bought a reke of EVA hoppers which run dine right out of the box . Also for your squeaky wheels on the freightliner wagons add a spot of white grease to the axle ends . as always Charlie great information for us to contemplate
Hi Charlie ,I run a small ho scale american switching layout and like you I suffered many derailments with a few KDee logging cars .I hve taken your tip and increased the weight of the single logs by hollowing them out and filling them with a brass rod .They run much better now with no derailments (ha ha so far ) thanks again for all your vids ,best regards Rob A👍
The double advertising really frustrating but I understand it's required. I stop having periods back in the 70s or actually I don't think I had one yet? So to be educated on how best to use a tampon during a coupling session was so what educational. Chadwick is progressing in a wonderful direction and I look forward to the beef from those cows on the hill at Christmas. Great stuff Charlie I also hope we can have a few summer trip day outside in 2023 as especially enjoyed the visiting of railways stations drive last year at 1000mph through the countryside. All the best.
Hi Charlie, I haven’t watched the whole vid yet, I’ve had to pause it at 4:20 after rewinding three times to confirm what you said. I think that’s the first time I’ve heard you revert to Jack Speak. For those who think Charlie calls himself a name… he is actually saying “dit” which is Royal Navy speak for telling a story or “spinning a dit”. If someone tells a boring story the quick response is usually “cheers dits”… so I’m sure I may get a similar reply 😀
I believe at 25:26 your tension lock couplers are all bound up from loco to first coach. Still didn't derail your track work must be marvellous I'd never get away with that. Nice work!
Thank you Charlie for another brilliant video much enjoyed watching your rolling stock go round the laying and up and down the helix and you shareing your problems with use very honest video and useful information on tools you had to use food for thought has I'm in limbo with my layout whether to move it out the loft to a shed. Take care Charlie look forward to the next one kind regards Gary
They are called life guards Charlie..... we had to trim the ones on the real thing as there is an actual measurement from rail head to guard. I have had to alter many over the years. I have actually worked on the full sized Thor many years ago at Canton.
Every time I see those Dogfish wagons I’m transported back to my childhood and the naughty trucks in the Thomas book! Great video as always Charlie - thank you for sharing.
Excellent video ! Sods Law has Sods Law written all over it !!!! I have seen your previous videos and after checking all my rolling stock, and correcting them, I have virtually no derailments ever. I have a 4-4-0 where the drive wheels are a bit out but nothing I can do about that: Hornby's fault. It just needs to run round a few times on its own to 'warm it up' and then it seems ok. . . . bit bizarre but as you say "we are where we are". Cheers x
Enjoying your videos Charlie. I have replaced all my very narrow nem couplings for Hornby medium nem couplings which fit Dapol, Hornby and Bachman. I have also removed the tabs which are constantly trying to push the couplings back to the centre position. This does seem to have helped, especially over points. ill certainly keep watching your videos for more tips
Hi Charlie, A few years ago I read an artical about adding weight to early hornby tank wagons, it worked a treat so thought i'd pop it on here incase it is of use on your freightliner wagons - the tip was to drill a 5 or 6mm hole on the bottom of the tank and pump it full of silicon sealant - this once set adds enough weight to overcome bouncing derailments and is a pretty cheap option. As you've screwed you containers down on the wagon bed this should work for them too, especially if you only do the outer 2 boxes, it might help with the sagging too. Cracking channel and loving the layout as it developes. All the best Rich
An absolutely cracking video Charlie, brutally honest, probably very accurate and hilarious. Your descriptive talents are priceless. Keep on producing great videos and a great layout.
hi Charlie, yet again a very entertaining but informative video, I an quite new to the hobby, along with my 8yr old grandson and although the chances that we will grow to the level of track you have are almost zero watching what you do and the problems you try to over come, helps even beginners like us out, with the back to back issues, the coupling problems and mostly replacing the rubbish wheels our derailments are now at a very low level and the frustration has decreased, I also try to keep the stock wheels and the track "clean' which does seem to make a difference thank you for sharing your knowledge also watching your trains run just before bedtime is very relaxing, thanks again regards Ron
Hi Charlie, what a great video. There are numerous causes of derailments and you have covered all in a very enlightening and humorous manner....Thanks Greg
Thank you, that was so much fun to watch. I always come to your videos for a bit of a pick-me-up. Your videos are not just entertaining and informative, but the pure joy of the hobby just flows out of you and on to the screen. We all have frustrations with the hobby at times. Love your consistent ‘built by man, can be fixed by man’ attitude. Thanks again, and keep up the great content.
Excelente video muy explicativo señor Charlie , he visto muchos detalles que usted a descripto que comparto plenamente , es un verdadero placer ver sus pr0lijos trabajos , muchas gracias por compartir Mario Gallardo .
Hi Charlie, Kalmbach just came out with a book Model Realistic Freight Car Loads, on my short list to buy, cuz I agree those freight cars look like they could use some weight. My next thing is right from the first video of yours I watched, (some time ago) not only because I luv your English trains (live across the pond not what i grew up with), but I really liked you and your down to earth style and honesty, look forward to every video on Chadwick. Thank-you.
Something I have discovered recently which has been an absolute breakthrough with the running of my 009 narrow gauge layout is flange depth. Yes it doesnt look as good, but the deeper old style "pizza cutter" are 10x more reliable. I reckon the gradual straying away from these in favour of more prototypical flanges has made a silent but awful reduction in reliability which has gone somewhat unoticed perhaps. Spent ages chasing microscopic trackwork issues only to find that the deeper flange wheels (within reason of course) have quite literally transformed my layouts reliability! food for thought.
Hi Charlie - you demonstrate some interesting issues and its nice to see that you don't duck the issue of the dreaded derailments. At present I'm having to re-lay a section of track at the top of my helix since many locos derail on it and it was definitely my fault - I didn't take enough care laying the track originally - aargh!!! The other thing that I noticed is the HST buffet car derailment - I have a similar one on my HST set, all fitted with Hunt couplings and it constantly derails and it has done so since new. It's been fitted with a variety of couplings during its life, the original Hornby ones, Keen system ones and latterly the Hunt Couplings. I've checked the back to back measurements, I've swapped bogies off other Mk 3 coaches but the problem persists although derailments of it are less often than they used to be. I just cannot work out why it happens. Hope that your fix on yours will stand the test of time.Thanks for the video.
A masterclass in how to make an interesting and entertaining video about one of the least interesting and entertaining aspects of our hobby Charlie! The close-up of the HST moving off in the wrong direction made me laugh out loud and the ballast train at the diamond crossing was the icing on the cake. I think I will also adopt your approach to “scenic” and “non-scenic” trains for types of couplings as I also have a helix - a great way of thinking about it, rather than slavishly using just one type of coupling (as I had been planning to do). Thanks for sharing your experience and interesting tips and ideas, as always.
If anything demonstrates the importance of back to backs, it is this video. Thank you for this, it was extremely valuable information very well presented!
Hello Charlie. Important to realise that weight distribution in terms of the length of the train will be a big factor. Heavier items should wherever possible be directly behind the locomotive with the lightest at the rear. This was standard practice on the real railway to help avoid imbalance when negotiating curves. It's a very fine balance when it comes to the model railway world obviously. Best wishes from Slovenia.
Cheers Charlie. I thought it was just me too 😁 I have a Hornby Cock O North and the front bogey is forever derailing on curves and 1 set of points! Driving me nuts!!! 😂😂
Important points to bare in mind. I look forward to seeing the construction of the second helix, and the math's involved. I am also excited about how an understanding of math's can be applied to everyday situations.
Hi Charlie Love it. Simple? Problem solving. Once again warts and all. So encouraging when you see you have some of my problems. You are so right when I watch some other videos where everything goes right you question your own ability. It's not always my fault ! Back to back really worth checking on all stock I now realize. Well done once again and thanks. Look forward to next episode. Howard
Marvellous charlie so true in what you say make the equipment correct and the rails with in tolerance weight is key as well for good adhesion and forced rail following ? Splendid job sir ! Little john from chichester
Great to see another video from you Charlie - and I feel your pain! I've just put together a train with two Hornby Class 73s top-and-tailing, and for some reason I just can't get it to do a full circuit of the layout without derailing somewhere. Suspect my shoddy trackwork may well be to blame, so there will be engineering works and a rail replacement bus service operating until I can be bothered to sort it out 😂 Your honesty and humility make this channel unique - it's great to see end results, but the hurdles and challenges we face on the way are just as much a part of the hobby. Love it.
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie :) I've figured out the problem with my Class 73s as well - there was a small bit of detail on the bogie frames that was fouling the 3rd rail. Normal service resumed 😂
Another excellent video Charlie. You are right, many videos are edited so de-rails and uncoupling aren't shown, so a realistic video showing what can happen is really useful. I had one occasion when the coaches decided to fall off the track to one side, but then I was using tighter curves than 3rd radius. One other issue particularly with freight stock is the use of kit built wagons/vans. It can be that the frame sides aren't perfectly aligned, so you end up with parallel axles but they try to run crabwise and de-rail. I now use a Brassmasters jig to ensure that the axles are straight and parallel. I agree with weight and wagons. I found that 9' and 10' wheelbase wagons needed to be at least 35 gm and recovered lead pipework, which I found underneath the floorboards of a previous house we lived in is used for this. Now in the days of H & S, I wear gloves when cutting it to size. I am sure there are modeller supplies who provide the same thing without all the hammering and cutting that I do. I have also started using one fixed axle and one compensated axle on wagons and wished I had done this from the start and have started retrofitting some of my old Airfix mineral wagons with a compensated axle. With regards to your Heljan hoppers, would it be a good idea to replace the wheels. I have a set of 3 or 4 and don't particularly like the wheels which are on them and am considering replacing them just for the look alone. I found that Bachmann back to back always had to be checked and adjusted, so I now do that as a matter of course.
Thank you for the brilliant comment Don. My problem with replacing the wheels on the dogfish wagons, is that the axle length is different. What I might try is just to replace the wheels themselves with ones from Bachmann or Hornby. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Please let me know how you get on with the wheels. I might do the same myself, but at the moment they are away in the attic in boxes.
awesome video charlie i had that same problem with oo australia coal wagons being to Light so i just filled them with crashed up coal to give it some weight .and Realistic Look to
Charlie, you should automate the wheel scrubber to power on and off at will with IR sensors before and after on that fiddle yard line and to trigger the scrubber in both directions. One of the best things about your channel Charlie is the way you research, Annalize and amend the issues you are faced with concerning rolling stock and the layout build problems. You are methodic in finding the solutions to faults and explain in the best feasible way you know how to tackle them.
Well done Charlie 👍 I find life with all its awful problems depressing at times. I am so greatful to close the windows and drfift away to your world. Nice and calming to watch and it feels me with hope that the world is not all bad. I suppose it's what model railway are about. It's each person escape to a time and place that bring back happy memories. I wonder how many scenery on people railways are based on places they grow up in. I remember as a child my nan walking with her and the dogs over fields then to cross a unmanned railway crossing. My nan looking up the track saying we safe now then at times remember see a train approach was such excitement. That scene is so clear in my mind. I did in recent years visit this place and it was a housing estate all that remain is the small stream I remember walking past. So one day when I build my own layout the crossing will once again see trains. Thsnks again it means so much to enjoy your channel. Best wishes. Tony
@@ChadwickModelRailway I watched the one with expand foam it make me laugh how much it grown over night. Will you be launching a chadwick App soon with your content and shop etc
Charlie, I took a few minutes to go back and look at the origins of Chadwick Model Railway to see just how far you've come with your empire. Suffice to say, you have a whole lot of model railway now my friend! It's great to watch trains rolling along on your trackage and the expanse of the layout. Well done, I say, Charlie! This is another great video; we all have to thrash out the gremlins to keep the wheels on the track, and you expertly show us how to approach the problem. Really looking forward to the next in the series - completing the final loop! Thanks again, mate!
That's it! I'm buying some trains....I accidentally started watching your videos recently after I found an old Hornby train set I got when I was a lad in the 90s and recently set it up for my kids to have a play with. Your videos are excellent, informative, down to earth and just all round great craic. Your passion for the hobby is infectious and you have managed to pull in this fella to give it a go( My kids too). Now off to ebay I go on a shoe string budget!
@@fircombehallrailwayoogauge1430 Thanks fo the tip! Will be starting with a small end to end layout mounted on a wall so will probably be ok to buy some track straight out of the shop. Main focus will be to get involved with the automation side of things. So will have to get that hardware seconndhand and build it up slowly.
A very interesting video 📹, I am proud to say I have not had any derailments......my track isn't fully laid yet🙃😁. I think you are right the helix has to be damn near perfect. It was good to see the variety of couplings used that was very helpful. I like your HST mine is similar. Well done.
A timely presentation, Charlie. I'm going through testing of my track with various train consists, both freight and passenger. With all of my rolling stock being equipped with Kadee couplers, the vertical curves have become the bane of my existence. I am now working through my rolling stock to test all couplers for their positioning above top of rail. Simultaneously I am working to flatten out the vertical curve as best as possible. Not what I had hoped to be doing at this point but pushing through it.
Charlie, I think what I like most about your videos, besides the knowledge you part to us, is that you show it how it is and tell how it is. It is what it is! I am a firm believer in testing and tweaking track, locos and rolling stock before getting into scenery. I still chuckle over your "unboxing" video. I run all steam locos, no diesels. I am running 2-8-0s. I don't want to be tearing up scenery if my track laying mistakes will cause me tear out a section of layout. I also don't like to be showing my trains running with constant derailments. So, I use my most sensitive steam model loco as my test locomotive. I now have seven of the 2-8-0s by the same manufacturer. These particular 2-8-0s will seriously enhance any flaw in the track laying where other manufactures' model steam locomotives are more forgiving. Once I see that my test 2-8-0 can navigate through the layout without a bump or wobble I know the rest of my 2-8-0s will also do the same. However, I do tune up each one. Why seven of the same model? The real world railway I model after had seven Baldwin C-16s and one 0-6-0 Porter tank engine. Great video!
Charlie, another excellent honest true video. Blooper time surely not, you keep yours in intact never say never for derailments. Back to back gauge worth it weight in brass…. Being mindfull of the track work is important and sometimes crucial, anyone still have 1st radius curves where the older classic engines make it round but the newer more recent decade engines don’t!!! It happens, that’s their design. Hornby surely not. Sorry your videos are always good to watch and listen to, small things that pickup on and use at later stage. Modelling or testing or running the “toy” model trains. Looking forward to the next exciting video. All best Marc
The old Hornby (and others) rolling stock had back-to- back measurements of about 14.2 mm and Settrack points are designed still to accept these. The issue is confused somewhat by the use half a century ago (was it really that long!) of much thicker flanges. If you only use modern stock, then it can help if a small strip of 2 mm x 0,25 mm (10 thou) plasticard is glue to the face of the check rails.
9:36 I think, Charlie, you are probably a genius, and that is why we keep coming back… Great and inspired video as always. Chadwick is looking great - and is nearly there - until you decide to change it all again? Just a thought, and it's way above my pay-grade, can you set at entry to the helix to automatically "drop the sound and reduce the speed to 30"? It would seem like a great idea, but I'm sure there are all sorts or reasons why you can't, apart from the fun factor!
You make a very interesting point mate. Yes you can using traincontroller, mute the sound or turn it down as it leaves the visual section. Furthermore, you can dictate the maximum speeds that all locos can do on the Helix. Perhaps it might be advantageous, to have a slower speed on the way down and a faster one on the way up. Regards Charlie
Thanks Charlie, wish these videos where around when I designed and built my 8x4 tail chaser, I do get one or two problems but you have covered most in this video, I have some work to do with some slight modifications, happy days .
I love a representation of an HST; takes me straight back to my childhood, but the formation at 3:26 was not proto-typical. When, in the very early HST days of two buffets, the buffets were not located next to each other, but had TSs in-between. Also every buffet would have appeared to be positioned the 'wrong' way around, ie with the buffet portion adjacent to the Standard class, and the Standard class potion actually adjacent to the First Class portion of the train. I know you probably know that. Doesn't take anything away from another thoroughly enjoyable video. Thank you Charlie. The best model railway videos on YT. I learn a hundred-times more from your excellent knowledge and tutorship than I could ever get the chance to criticize!
Actually Nicholas I think we’re both right, I’ve been through very many books to find out which orientation they should be and they seem to be all over the place. Regards Charlie
With regards to the tension couplings, the tail of it was to be raised by the uncoupler ramps that Hornby used to split a rake of rolling stock. If your not using one, the base of the tails could be cut higher so they clear the top of the rail!
Hello Charlie, love your latest video. As you know I model in Scalefour which has a track gauge of 18.83 mm, and a flange depth of only .66mm, as I model Southern Region EMU’s in the 60’s the maximum line speed on my layout is a scale 70 mph, which to some modellers might seem a bit slow. As for couplings, because the LNER (and some A4 locomotives), the Southern Railway, and early British Railways coaching stock where coupled together using buckeye couplers, all my coaches are fitted with Kadee couplings, for my goods wagons and NPS I continue to use 3 link or screw couplings.
So why do I think I know why my fellow OO modellers have derailments.
1: First and foremost they run their trains far too fast, most real trains have speed restrictions and don’t travel at 150mph everywhere.
2: OO curved setrack rails are too tight, high speeds plus sharp curves equals a derailment, and it also causes buffer locking. When I started modelling in P4/S4 with .66 mm wheel flanges, I had a lot of derailments, so I relaid my track correctly. I removed any kinks in my track laying, then I built in transition curves and superelevation on to my curved track, allowing higher train speeds and to give my track a more realistic look ( Flexi track is best for transition curves and normally cheaper)
3: And most OO rolling stock is too light, running locomotives at high speed pulling light weight rolling stock causes the rolling stock to bounce off the rails. I was once advised to weight a standard 4 wheel goods wagon to at least 50 to 60 grams.
I hope this reply to your excellent video will help other modellers to solve their derailment problems, as it took me many years to solve mine. PS. Did you manage to find an old Wills track cleaning wagon ?
Best Regards
Barry
IIRC BR had a similar problem with 4-wheel 9' wheelbase wagons bouncing of the rails on CWF track that had been ballasted for high speed running, and that the speeds involved were speeds that the wagons happily ran in sectional track
What an excellent comment Bazza.
I couldn’t agree more. McKinley produced a video on the “weight of freight” and is well worth a watch.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I’ve just watched the video, seems we are on the same page, 50 grams for a 12 ton ventilated van, and 60 grams for a 16 ton mineral wagon.
Hi Charlie another excellent video....every day is a school day at Chadwick..
We’re never too old to learn Graham. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Rodger that and Charlie does a good job.
I would have loved a school like this . Takes me back as I recon it does for everyone but shows the future too.
Such a relief to find that I'm not the only one having 'dreadful derailments, even without so much rolling stock.
I’m glad you appreciate the honesty of it. You are not alone. Regards Charlie
9:30 gives me a smile. You seem to enjoy keeping the bloopers in. As always an informative and interesting video - thanks Charlie
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it, regardless of me going off piste!
Hi Charlie the comment about other youtubers not showing derailments and thus everyone else thinking it doesn't happen in absolutely true. I've been struggling a lot with derailments on my first loft layout and this is so enlightening!
Thanks for your comment mate. Honesty does seem to be an issue on certain channels! Regards, Charlie
Hello Charlie,.
I know you are very busy (especially reading messages) so I'll be terse. For you to say that all model railways have derailments, and that they are not recorded, I thought, was absolutely brilliant. I for one, look at many layouts (yours inclusive) and think... how brilliant it must be to own a model railway to have an impeccable running session. So far from the truth. I loved the pugnacious approach to addressing the issue, and I thank you dearly.
Thanks Charlie
Lee
Good on you Lee. I feel that the lack of derailments on some channels, really is an elephant in the room. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, another fantastic video as a newbie to model railways I found the amount of electric boxes and wiring frightening it seemed to me they were everywhere along your layout, then I look at mine and see 4 boxes and think I must be doing something wrong lol , keep up the brilliant informative vids and thank you.
So pleased that you found it interesting, Jon. Sometime simplicity is best. Regards, Charlie.
“If a picture paints a thousand words” you have written several books with your stripped back no nonsense educational video. Thank you, for demonstrating such an important subject.
That’s very kind of you to say so Peter. Stay safe, regards Charlie
Not just my layout then! Enjoyable and appreciate the honesty.
And I appreciate yours to John. Regards Charlie
Nice video Charlie. I have to say that is quite an indepth video. I certianly learnt somthing from this. - Nicholas.
That’s great Nicholas, I’m so pleased that you found it useful
Hi Charlie, I'd just like to say I've found this video and the last few videos very informative with plenty of tips I'll be taking onboard. So a big thank you, brilliant stuff. That's not to say your other videos are not informative, quite the contrary.🙂 Cheers, Julian
That’s very kind of you to say so Julian.
Regards Charlie
One of the most honest guys in the game! 😊
That’s very kind of you to say so Pete. Regards, Charlie
thank you Charlie I really enjoyed this video
Thanks mate, it was interesting trying to make a boring subject appeal to our audience. But derailments are a challenge to us all. Regards Charlie
Thank you so much for another superb video. Funnily enough I’ve just been doing some test running and kept on getting derailments with Hornby coaches. It turned out to be the kinetic couplings that, unlike the Bachmann ones, have rough pieces on the rubbing plates between the coupling and the rear of the headstock. This stopped the coupling returning to ‘normal’ after a curve. (If that makes sense). A little work with an abrasive stick sorted things out but it just goes to show how many variables there are in investigating derailment causes. Just like the real thing then. Looking forward to the building of helix 2. Tony
Thanks Tony, for a very useful comment. I shall look a little more closely at my Hornby Pullman Cars.
Regards Charlie.
Super interesting video, you have such a calming way of explaining subjects and your humour at times makes me chuckle. Just wish my Covid would clear up because every time I laugh it gives me a coughing fit. Thanks again , you are a star.
Sorry to hear that you’re still under the weather mate. Keep taking the paracetamol.
Get well soon, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie Thank you so much for another superb video
Thanks Stephen, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate. Regards Charlie
Great to here that you allso accept railway modeling is not a perfect science, over my many years of modelling Iike you have become a realist about these problems and accepted them as part of the norm .Your very good vid goes a long way to helping all modellers to improve the troublesome trucks,great stuff Rob A
It’s problems such as these Robin, turn us from railway modellers into small scale. Engineers! Regards, Charlie
Charlie, I really enjoy your videos. They are educational and funny. You are awesome.
Educational and funny perhaps, awesome I doubt it. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie I bought some new passenger carriages from Hattons and not one wheel set is right I put on a back to back thank you for your help Terence
You’re most welcome Terrence. Regards Charlie
Lovely video. I learn every time I watch your videos.
Thanks Q, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
Sadly many are to quick to blame manufacturers not their track work or choice of surface to lay their track on.
Good to see this being discussed by a couple of serious channels that don't take the mick. Always a chuckle to be had at people being so angry that their models derail when even real railways are yet to fully eliminate this issue even with billions of research and centuries of improvement.
Excellent comment TK. Regards Charlie
train kits and other bits, Thank you for your reply earlier. I honestly cannot find my origianl comment that you replied to.
In Australia, the local machine shops have also disappeared, or are disappearing. It is something I considered, but the cost of fuel would really add up.
I have ordered a back-to-back from one UK Shop, that had reasonable postage charges.
Cheers, and stay safe, Michael
@@michaelimpey1407 all good, and yeah in some places there has been a decline in businesses that could do it but maybe im spoilt for choice in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne I could tell you of probably 20 places that you could walk up and get one made no issues.
@@Samstrainsofficially , when I lived in Melbourne I would agree with you, same with Hobart.
I am now on the Central Coast of NSW, and just not around anymore. Not enough work, and better opportunities elsewhere I assume.
Cheers Michael
@@michaelimpey1407 hope you've avoided the flood waters of late.
dude, this is awesome. thanks for sharing this!
Thanks mate, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
Very interesting video, Charlie. When building the H2 do not forget your nuts. Martin. (Thailand)
An excellent reminder Martin.
Fingers crossed.
Regards Charlie
Derailments are so frustrating. Worth checking back-to-back first, even on new stock.
I couldn’t agree more mate. Regards Charlie
Thanks for your very interesting and informative video presentation Charlie.
I always enjoy watching your videos. The information presented is practical and helpful. With a bit of humour thrown in.
I particularly like the wheel cleaner.
I agree with your thoughts on track, couplings and wheels to have a well running train.
Something I do to check if a Rail vehicle is the right length for a curve. I set the vehicle. (Be it a locomotive or wagon, passenger or freight). On the curved track.
If the couplers, when centred with the wagon are inside the 4 foot. And the coupler is in the track centre when pushed to its full range of travel in the coupler box. The Rail vehicle is the correct length for the curve.
This is for body mounted couplers of course.
Which is why, as you no doubt know. Many manufacturers have bogie mounted couplers. So the longer wagons and locomotives are able to successfully negotiate tighter curves.
Clearance testing is also an important part of layout design.
Especially when running American articulated steam locomotives as I do.
Thanks Helmut, for a very interesting comment. Regards, Charlie.
Charlie, first off it was nice to meet you at the west camel railway clubs open day, Managed to pick up another Class 50 for £75 which was an absolute steel! We have plenty of derailments, especially on the lift up section. Normally caused by alignment of joins, we also have issues with bogies on some rolling stock being over tightened. We had an absolute nightmare with Hornbys Pullman coaches, Glad to say its now resolved but had to change out couplings.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed our show and picked up a bargain at the same time.
Happy modelling, regards Charlie
Sage advice on wheel gauge that I'd extend to the entire truck. Gauge is critical, especially important to check out of the box & whenever you buy used. The connection between truck and body is also critical. I have a used HO boxcar that's pristine looking. But hold it upside down and turn the trucks like they're going through curves and you can actually watch the screws turning themselves out. It would literally lose its trucks after a few clockwise runs around a layout. Setting the tightness on all new & new-to-you rolling stock... er... wagons, and check it again after a dozen or so good uses is equally good for avoiding problems.
An excellent point Frank. Are you and I have clearly had the same nightmare issues. Regards Charlie
Charlie: You boldly address issues that every model railroader has to deal with. The dreaded derailment! Weight of cars, curve radius, turnouts, and coupler design. All the books and articles I read emphasized defining the minimum radius for your layout. This especially important with long cars. Most of these items are intuitive but there isn’t a one of us the sets a standard and just break the rules. I use mostly #6 turnouts (versus #4’s). Great video.
Thanks Ken I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting mate. Regards Charlie
Also the 's' of curves for longer carriages - I find they can be a problem.
Excellent stuff, bloopers and all. I've now purchased a back to back gauge to help sort my own issues.
Good on you Wayne, I’m sure it will be a useful addition to your toolbox. Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie.
Thanks Iain, regards Charlie
All interesting stuff. I have quite a few wagons needing some additional weight - unlike their owner!
You and me both Davie.
Great video again, Charlie. We all know Rule 1 of model railways: Rule 2 is that wagons and coaches will only derail when you are not watching them. :-)
I first came across the kinematic close couplings in the 1970s on Röwa coaches (German HO but 1:100 length). We bought a few from Victors (RIP) and were amazed when we got them home and on the layout to find that they not only coupled corridor connection to corridor connection, but also went round our dodgy trackwork. Röwa went bust, and were bought out by Roco, who continued to make them, though Röwa's designer, Willi Ade, went his own way, and produced fine scale proper 1:87 models of the 26.4m long coaches.
Amazed the Lux cleaner didn't send the dogfish flying. Weight in goods wagons has always been an issue (I guess because it's not as easy to hide a weight under the seats like in passenger coaches) - as I'm sure you're aware, throwing a few nuts in may not work, as the centre of gravity may be too high: you need to get the weight as low as possible.
Willi Ade aka Mr. Clips. 😁 An extremely important man in model railway history that most people will have never heard of.
Rest assured Andrew, I will crack these dogfish wagons! Regards Charlie
I had a rake of those hoppers and they were constantly derailing on tracks that were good for the rest of my rolling stock so I got rid of them and bought a reke of EVA hoppers which run dine right out of the box . Also for your squeaky wheels on the freightliner wagons add a spot of white grease to the axle ends . as always Charlie great information for us to contemplate
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it John. And thanks for the tip, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie ,I run a small ho scale american switching layout and like you I suffered many derailments with a few KDee logging cars .I hve taken your tip and increased the weight of the single logs by hollowing them out and filling them with a brass rod .They run much better now with no derailments (ha ha so far ) thanks again for all your vids ,best regards Rob A👍
Thanks Rob, I’m so pleased that you have found a working solution.
Regards Charlie
Great video as always Charlie. Good information. Thanks for sharing. Roy.
Thanks Roy, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie
The double advertising really frustrating but I understand it's required. I stop having periods back in the 70s or actually I don't think I had one yet? So to be educated on how best to use a tampon during a coupling session was so what educational. Chadwick is progressing in a wonderful direction and I look forward to the beef from those cows on the hill at Christmas. Great stuff Charlie I also hope we can have a few summer trip day outside in 2023 as especially enjoyed the visiting of railways stations drive last year at 1000mph through the countryside. All the best.
I’m so pleased that you enjoy my videos boombox, there’s another one in the can ready to be edited. Regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway You are TH-cam number 1 Railway modeling channel. The best!!
Hi Charlie, I haven’t watched the whole vid yet, I’ve had to pause it at 4:20 after rewinding three times to confirm what you said. I think that’s the first time I’ve heard you revert to Jack Speak. For those who think Charlie calls himself a name… he is actually saying “dit” which is Royal Navy speak for telling a story or “spinning a dit”. If someone tells a boring story the quick response is usually “cheers dits”… so I’m sure I may get a similar reply 😀
An excellent comment shippers!
Regards Charlie
I believe at 25:26 your tension lock couplers are all bound up from loco to first coach. Still didn't derail your track work must be marvellous I'd never get away with that. Nice work!
Although rest assured Josh, those tension lock couplings will be replaced. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway they are a pain from time to time, especially the fact they are not standardized, cheers for the reply
Thank you Charlie for another brilliant video much enjoyed watching your rolling stock go round the laying and up and down the helix and you shareing your problems with use very honest video and useful information on tools you had to use food for thought has I'm in limbo with my layout whether to move it out the loft to a shed. Take care Charlie look forward to the next one kind regards Gary
Thanks Gary, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Stay safe mate, regards Charlie
They are called life guards Charlie..... we had to trim the ones on the real thing as there is an actual measurement from rail head to guard. I have had to alter many over the years. I have actually worked on the full sized Thor many years ago at Canton.
Thanks DD, what an interesting occupation. Regards, Charlie.
Every time I see those Dogfish wagons I’m transported back to my childhood and the naughty trucks in the Thomas book!
Great video as always Charlie - thank you for sharing.
Thanks mate, I’m so pleased that my dogfish wagons bring you much joy as well! Regards Charlie
Excellent video ! Sods Law has Sods Law written all over it !!!! I have seen your previous videos and after checking all my rolling stock, and correcting them, I have virtually no derailments ever. I have a 4-4-0 where the drive wheels are a bit out but nothing I can do about that: Hornby's fault. It just needs to run round a few times on its own to 'warm it up' and then it seems ok. . . . bit bizarre but as you say "we are where we are". Cheers x
That’s great news Richard, regards Charlie
Enjoying your videos Charlie. I have replaced all my very narrow nem couplings for Hornby medium nem couplings which fit Dapol, Hornby and Bachman. I have also removed the tabs which are constantly trying to push the couplings back to the centre position. This does seem to have helped, especially over points. ill certainly keep watching your videos for more tips
Thanks for sharing your solution, Richard. Regards, Charlie.
Your blue Warship is an origonal Mainline version. I have done the same, de motorized for double heading with later Bachman Warships.
You will love Friday’s video!
Regards Charlie
Most informative and very amusing Charlie.
Thanks Robert, it’s great to have you on board mate.
Hi Charlie, A few years ago I read an artical about adding weight to early hornby tank wagons, it worked a treat so thought i'd pop it on here incase it is of use on your freightliner wagons - the tip was to drill a 5 or 6mm hole on the bottom of the tank and pump it full of silicon sealant - this once set adds enough weight to overcome bouncing derailments and is a pretty cheap option. As you've screwed you containers down on the wagon bed this should work for them too, especially if you only do the outer 2 boxes, it might help with the sagging too. Cracking channel and loving the layout as it developes. All the best Rich
Thanks for the tip Rich, I shall have a little look. I’m so pleased that you enjoy the channel, regards, Charlie
An absolutely cracking video Charlie, brutally honest, probably very accurate and hilarious. Your descriptive talents are priceless. Keep on producing great videos and a great layout.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Lindsey, and it’s great to have you on board mate.
hi Charlie, yet again a very entertaining but informative video, I an quite new to the hobby, along with my 8yr old grandson and although the chances that we will grow to the level of track you have are almost zero watching what you do and the problems you try to over come, helps even beginners like us out, with the back to back issues, the coupling problems and mostly replacing the rubbish wheels our derailments are now at a very low level and the frustration has decreased, I also try to keep the stock wheels and the track "clean' which does seem to make a difference thank you for sharing your knowledge also watching your trains run just before bedtime is very relaxing, thanks again regards Ron
Thanks Ron, for such a heartwarming comment. Good luck with your project, I know these things can be tedious at times. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, what a great video. There are numerous causes of derailments and you have covered all in a very enlightening and humorous manner....Thanks Greg
Thanks Greg, I’m so pleased that the video brought a smile to your face. Regards Charlie
Thank you, that was so much fun to watch. I always come to your videos for a bit of a pick-me-up. Your videos are not just entertaining and informative, but the pure joy of the hobby just flows out of you and on to the screen. We all have frustrations with the hobby at times. Love your consistent ‘built by man, can be fixed by man’ attitude. Thanks again, and keep up the great content.
What a heartwarming comment Barry.
I’m so pleased that you enjoy the channel. Regards Charlie.
Excelente video muy explicativo señor Charlie , he visto muchos detalles que usted a descripto que comparto plenamente , es un verdadero placer ver sus pr0lijos trabajos , muchas gracias por compartir Mario Gallardo .
Thanks Mario, I’m so pleaded that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, Kalmbach just came out with a book Model Realistic Freight Car Loads, on my short list to buy, cuz I agree those freight cars look like they could use some weight. My next thing is right from the first video of yours I watched, (some time ago) not only because I luv your English trains (live across the pond not what i grew up with), but I really liked you and your down to earth style and honesty, look forward to every video on Chadwick. Thank-you.
Thank you, midnight rider, it’s great to have you on board mate. Regards Charlie
Interesting video Charlie and good luck with the other helix....fingers crossed
I start building on Monday in the summer heat!
Regards Charlie
Great video loved the warts an all element (derailment ) as you said not always shown keep them coming Charlie 👍
Thanks Jeff, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed my warts and all video. Regards Charlie
Something I have discovered recently which has been an absolute breakthrough with the running of my 009 narrow gauge layout is flange depth. Yes it doesnt look as good, but the deeper old style "pizza cutter" are 10x more reliable. I reckon the gradual straying away from these in favour of more prototypical flanges has made a silent but awful reduction in reliability which has gone somewhat unoticed perhaps. Spent ages chasing microscopic trackwork issues only to find that the deeper flange wheels (within reason of course) have quite literally transformed my layouts reliability! food for thought.
What an excellent observation EWS.
Progress isn’t necessarily of benefit to us all. Regards, Charlie.
Showing the problems you have with your layout helps us diagnose ours. Placing weights over the truck should help with the bowing .
Good tip. Regards Charlie.
Really enjoyed the video watching trains run.
Thanks Errol, regards Charlie
Thanks, Charlie, everyone has derailments on the HO layouts.
Exactly right mate, TH-cam videos without derailments should be viewed with scepticism. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie - you demonstrate some interesting issues and its nice to see that you don't duck the issue of the dreaded derailments. At present I'm having to re-lay a section of track at the top of my helix since many locos derail on it and it was definitely my fault - I didn't take enough care laying the track originally - aargh!!! The other thing that I noticed is the HST buffet car derailment - I have a similar one on my HST set, all fitted with Hunt couplings and it constantly derails and it has done so since new. It's been fitted with a variety of couplings during its life, the original Hornby ones, Keen system ones and latterly the Hunt Couplings. I've checked the back to back measurements, I've swapped bogies off other Mk 3 coaches but the problem persists although derailments of it are less often than they used to be. I just cannot work out why it happens. Hope that your fix on yours will stand the test of time.Thanks for the video.
Have you tried turning it around? If so, try adding some weight. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks for the advice - I'll try doing both things. Cheers Dave
A masterclass in how to make an interesting and entertaining video about one of the least interesting and entertaining aspects of our hobby Charlie! The close-up of the HST moving off in the wrong direction made me laugh out loud and the ballast train at the diamond crossing was the icing on the cake. I think I will also adopt your approach to “scenic” and “non-scenic” trains for types of couplings as I also have a helix - a great way of thinking about it, rather than slavishly using just one type of coupling (as I had been planning to do). Thanks for sharing your experience and interesting tips and ideas, as always.
Thanks James, I’m so pleased that you found content particularly useful.
Regards Charlie
If anything demonstrates the importance of back to backs, it is this video. Thank you for this, it was extremely valuable information very well presented!
Thanks JT, I’m so pleased you enjoyed it mate.
Hello Charlie. Important to realise that weight distribution in terms of the length of the train will be a big factor. Heavier items should wherever possible be directly behind the locomotive with the lightest at the rear. This was standard practice on the real railway to help avoid imbalance when negotiating curves. It's a very fine balance when it comes to the model railway world obviously. Best wishes from Slovenia.
Great advice Martin.
Regards Charlie
Cheers Charlie. I thought it was just me too 😁 I have a Hornby Cock O North and the front bogey is forever derailing on curves and 1 set of points! Driving me nuts!!! 😂😂
And good luck with this one Redbank. Perhaps you can add a little weight to the bogie, if the back to backs are already within limits. Regards Charlie
Important points to bare in mind. I look forward to seeing the construction of the second helix, and the math's involved. I am also excited about how an understanding of math's can be applied to everyday situations.
Rest assured, I will deal with the maths.
Every day is a school day, after all.
Regards Charlie.
Hi Charlie, another very detailed video thank you. The video has given me food for thought with a few issues I have.
I’m so pleased that it might be useful Barry. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie
Love it. Simple? Problem solving. Once again warts and all. So encouraging when you see you have some of my problems. You are so right when I watch some other videos where everything goes right you question your own ability. It's not always my fault ! Back to back really worth checking on all stock I now realize.
Well done once again and thanks. Look forward to next episode.
Howard
Thanks Howard, and so pleased that you enjoyed it, and I’m not alone in the world of derailments! Regards Charlie
Marvellous charlie so true in what you say make the equipment correct and the rails with in tolerance weight is key as well for good adhesion and forced rail following ? Splendid job sir ! Little john from chichester
Thanks John I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting. Regards Charlie
I really enjoyed this! It was good to get an insight into your desired Ops
Thanks Jade, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting.
Great to see another video from you Charlie - and I feel your pain! I've just put together a train with two Hornby Class 73s top-and-tailing, and for some reason I just can't get it to do a full circuit of the layout without derailing somewhere. Suspect my shoddy trackwork may well be to blame, so there will be engineering works and a rail replacement bus service operating until I can be bothered to sort it out 😂 Your honesty and humility make this channel unique - it's great to see end results, but the hurdles and challenges we face on the way are just as much a part of the hobby. Love it.
What a heartwarming comment mate, you’re too kind. It’s great to have you on-board, regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie :) I've figured out the problem with my Class 73s as well - there was a small bit of detail on the bogie frames that was fouling the 3rd rail. Normal service resumed 😂
Very interesting video Charlie. Thanks!
Thanks Mike, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
Another excellent video Charlie. You are right, many videos are edited so de-rails and uncoupling aren't shown, so a realistic video showing what can happen is really useful. I had one occasion when the coaches decided to fall off the track to one side, but then I was using tighter curves than 3rd radius. One other issue particularly with freight stock is the use of kit built wagons/vans. It can be that the frame sides aren't perfectly aligned, so you end up with parallel axles but they try to run crabwise and de-rail. I now use a Brassmasters jig to ensure that the axles are straight and parallel. I agree with weight and wagons. I found that 9' and 10' wheelbase wagons needed to be at least 35 gm and recovered lead pipework, which I found underneath the floorboards of a previous house we lived in is used for this. Now in the days of H & S, I wear gloves when cutting it to size. I am sure there are modeller supplies who provide the same thing without all the hammering and cutting that I do. I have also started using one fixed axle and one compensated axle on wagons and wished I had done this from the start and have started retrofitting some of my old Airfix mineral wagons with a compensated axle. With regards to your Heljan hoppers, would it be a good idea to replace the wheels. I have a set of 3 or 4 and don't particularly like the wheels which are on them and am considering replacing them just for the look alone. I found that Bachmann back to back always had to be checked and adjusted, so I now do that as a matter of course.
Thank you for the brilliant comment Don. My problem with replacing the wheels on the dogfish wagons, is that the axle length is different. What I might try is just to replace the wheels themselves with ones from Bachmann or Hornby. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Please let me know how you get on with the wheels. I might do the same myself, but at the moment they are away in the attic in boxes.
awesome video charlie i had that same problem with oo australia coal wagons being to Light so i just filled them with crashed up coal to give it some weight .and Realistic Look to
I’m pleased that worked out satisfactorily Christopher. Regards Charlie
Charlie, you should automate the wheel scrubber to power on and off at will with IR sensors before and after on that fiddle yard line and to trigger the scrubber in both directions. One of the best things about your channel Charlie is the way you research, Annalize and amend the issues you are faced with concerning rolling stock and the layout build problems. You are methodic in finding the solutions to faults and explain in the best feasible way you know how to tackle them.
That’s exactly right John, the wheel scrubber will activate as a train occupies the approaching rail. Regards Charlie
Well done Charlie 👍 I find life with all its awful problems depressing at times. I am so greatful to close the windows and drfift away to your world. Nice and calming to watch and it feels me with hope that the world is not all bad. I suppose it's what model railway are about. It's each person escape to a time and place that bring back happy memories. I wonder how many scenery on people railways are based on places they grow up in. I remember as a child my nan walking with her and the dogs over fields then to cross a unmanned railway crossing. My nan looking up the track saying we safe now then at times remember see a train approach was such excitement. That scene is so clear in my mind. I did in recent years visit this place and it was a housing estate all that remain is the small stream I remember walking past. So one day when I build my own layout the crossing will once again see trains. Thsnks again it means so much to enjoy your channel. Best wishes. Tony
What a heartwarming comment Tony, I’m so pleased you enjoyed the channel. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway I watched the one with expand foam it make me laugh how much it grown over night. Will you be launching a chadwick App soon with your content and shop etc
I don’t think so boom box, I can hardly keep up with my own commitments. Regards Charlie
Charlie, I took a few minutes to go back and look at the origins of Chadwick Model Railway to see just how far you've come with your empire. Suffice to say, you have a whole lot of model railway now my friend! It's great to watch trains rolling along on your trackage and the expanse of the layout. Well done, I say, Charlie! This is another great video; we all have to thrash out the gremlins to keep the wheels on the track, and you expertly show us how to approach the problem. Really looking forward to the next in the series - completing the final loop! Thanks again, mate!
A brilliant comment as usual Pat. I appear to be making good progress this year, at long last. Regards Charlie
Nice one, Charlie. It's surprising just how much couplings play in reliable running!
Thanks 1701, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie
Great and informative. :)
Quote of the video: "Let's run some trains and see what can go wrong." Amen.
So pleased that you enjoyed it Rob. Regards Charlie
It looked like there is a dip in the track on the helix where the derail was.? Did on I see on the video after you adjusted the wheels. Thanks Peter
Thanks Peter, I shall certainly check it out. Regards Charlie
Awesome update as usual Charlie!!! Thanks for sharing mate!!!
So pleased that you enjoyed it Onno
Yet again another excellent video Charlie keep up the good work
Thanks OR TMD, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate. Regards Charlie
That's it! I'm buying some trains....I accidentally started watching your videos recently after I found an old Hornby train set I got when I was a lad in the 90s and recently set it up for my kids to have a play with. Your videos are excellent, informative, down to earth and just all round great craic. Your passion for the hobby is infectious and you have managed to pull in this fella to give it a go( My kids too). Now off to ebay I go on a shoe string budget!
It’s great to have you on-board Ben, happy modelling, regards Charlie
Don’t buy secondhand track, is my advice and don’t surf eBay after drinking a bottle of wine!
@@fircombehallrailwayoogauge1430 Thanks fo the tip! Will be starting with a small end to end layout mounted on a wall so will probably be ok to buy some track straight out of the shop. Main focus will be to get involved with the automation side of things. So will have to get that hardware seconndhand and build it up slowly.
A very interesting video 📹, I am proud to say I have not had any derailments......my track isn't fully laid yet🙃😁. I think you are right the helix has to be damn near perfect. It was good to see the variety of couplings used that was very helpful. I like your HST mine is similar. Well done.
Thanks Guy, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting mate. Regards Charlie
Another great video! Thanks for putting these out so regularly, they are so enjoyable.
Thanks Josh, that’s very kind of you to say so mate. Regards Charlie
Brilliant as always Charlie so it's all down to weight, couplings and speed
Please don’t forget wheel back to backs! Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Also old wheel flanges can bounce
A timely presentation, Charlie. I'm going through testing of my track with various train consists, both freight and passenger. With all of my rolling stock being equipped with Kadee couplers, the vertical curves have become the bane of my existence. I am now working through my rolling stock to test all couplers for their positioning above top of rail. Simultaneously I am working to flatten out the vertical curve as best as possible. Not what I had hoped to be doing at this point but pushing through it.
Couplings are the bane of our lives DhG, I do hope that you have more success than I. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, very useful video. I have "Thor" and the Hornby Freightliner wagons too. Interesting how these older items still hold their own!.
Great choices Peter. Regards Charlie
Charlie, I think what I like most about your videos, besides the knowledge you part to us, is that you show it how it is and tell how it is. It is what it is! I am a firm believer in testing and tweaking track, locos and rolling stock before getting into scenery. I still chuckle over your "unboxing" video.
I run all steam locos, no diesels. I am running 2-8-0s. I don't want to be tearing up scenery if my track laying mistakes will cause me tear out a section of layout. I also don't like to be showing my trains running with constant derailments. So, I use my most sensitive steam model loco as my test locomotive. I now have seven of the 2-8-0s by the same manufacturer. These particular 2-8-0s will seriously enhance any flaw in the track laying where other manufactures' model steam locomotives are more forgiving. Once I see that my test 2-8-0 can navigate through the layout without a bump or wobble I know the rest of my 2-8-0s will also do the same. However, I do tune up each one. Why seven of the same model? The real world railway I model after had seven Baldwin C-16s and one 0-6-0 Porter tank engine.
Great video!
A very interesting comment DKA.
I’m pleased that I’m not alone in testing to the extreme! Regards Charlie
Another helpful video, I'm glad you put in the derailments and things and not hide them, keep up the good work mate 👍👍👍👍
Thanks Lee, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie
Excellent video as usual Back to back are always a problem with the major manufacturers. You would think they could get it sorted .
I think you’re right Giovanni, but they just don’t seem to bother. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, really useful video as always. Some great knowledge that will assist me as I am now looking at planning my layout.
Thanks Kevin, I’m so pleased that you found it useful mate. Regards Charlie
I love watching you working away in your layout. Saves me having to construct a layout of my own. Just love getting old engines to work
You’re not alone on this Laurie, there are loads of folks with a similar outlook
Awesome video
Thanks marls, regards Charlie
Charlie, another excellent honest true video. Blooper time surely not, you keep yours in intact never say never for derailments. Back to back gauge worth it weight in brass…. Being mindfull of the track work is important and sometimes crucial, anyone still have 1st radius curves where the older classic engines make it round but the newer more recent decade engines don’t!!! It happens, that’s their design. Hornby surely not. Sorry your videos are always good to watch and listen to, small things that pickup on and use at later stage. Modelling or testing or running the “toy” model trains. Looking forward to the next exciting video. All best Marc
The old Hornby (and others) rolling stock had back-to- back measurements of about 14.2 mm and Settrack points are designed still to accept these. The issue is confused somewhat by the use half a century ago (was it really that long!) of much thicker flanges. If you only use modern stock, then it can help if a small strip of 2 mm x 0,25 mm (10 thou) plasticard is glue to the face of the check rails.
An interesting comment Graham. Do have a photo of the plasti-card in place?
Regards Charlie
Thanks Marc, as you say, we really shouldn’t expect too much from old stock. Regards Charlie
9:36 I think, Charlie, you are probably a genius, and that is why we keep coming back…
Great and inspired video as always. Chadwick is looking great - and is nearly there - until you decide to change it all again?
Just a thought, and it's way above my pay-grade, can you set at entry to the helix to automatically "drop the sound and reduce the speed to 30"? It would seem like a great idea, but I'm sure there are all sorts or reasons why you can't, apart from the fun factor!
You make a very interesting point mate. Yes you can using traincontroller, mute the sound or turn it down as it leaves the visual section.
Furthermore, you can dictate the maximum speeds that all locos can do on the Helix. Perhaps it might be advantageous, to have a slower speed on the way down and a faster one on the way up. Regards Charlie
If I ever form a band, it'll be called 'Days of Crimson'. Cheers, Charlie!
Can I go on drums Nigel? Regards Charlie
What genre does the name imply? I’m going for Emo.
🎵 ... Uhh, when the BR zero-eight comes shunting over ... 🎶
Great video, bits I knew, and bits I never really thought about.
Keep up the good work on your layout 👍🏻
Thanks Corin, you’re most welcome. Regards Charlie
Yes very informative Charlie. Looking forward to seeing you build the second helix. Thanks
Thanks Kevin I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie
Thanks Charlie, wish these videos where around when I designed and built my 8x4 tail chaser, I do get one or two problems but you have covered most in this video, I have some work to do with some slight modifications, happy days .
Every day is a school day for us all Bobby. Regards Charlie
I love a representation of an HST; takes me straight back to my childhood, but the formation at 3:26 was not proto-typical. When, in the very early HST days of two buffets, the buffets were not located next to each other, but had TSs in-between. Also every buffet would have appeared to be positioned the 'wrong' way around, ie with the buffet portion adjacent to the Standard class, and the Standard class potion actually adjacent to the First Class portion of the train. I know you probably know that. Doesn't take anything away from another thoroughly enjoyable video. Thank you Charlie. The best model railway videos on YT. I learn a hundred-times more from your excellent knowledge and tutorship than I could ever get the chance to criticize!
Actually Nicholas I think we’re both right, I’ve been through very many books to find out which orientation they should be and they seem to be all over the place. Regards Charlie
With regards to the tension couplings, the tail of it was to be raised by the uncoupler ramps that Hornby used to split a rake of rolling stock. If your not using one, the base of the tails could be cut higher so they clear the top of the rail!
Or just cut them off completely Bill.
Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Probably the easiest, which I was thinking about before I posted! 👍