switches

[arthur]

I have a switch that i use on a secondary off track. The problem comes into play when i back the train into the side tract to park. I generally get a derailment either backing in or pulling in.. How can this problem be solved.

[T-Man]

A small radius problem is corrected by adding a straight after the switch instead of a curve.

Make sure you get enough power to fully move the switch. power/wire feed gage.
lube the switch.
check for a mechanical problem on the track.
These are the general rules ,arthur.

[stationmaster]

I have had problems with Atlas switches. I no longer use them on my layout. I don't know if the is what you are using, or even if we are talking the same scale here, HO. I change, early on, to Walthers switches, manufactured by Shinohara. Since the change, no problems. Also the smallest radius I use, even in the yard, is a 5"-6" radius. Look closely at what is happening when the car derails. Is it at the frog, at the transfer rail, is the wheel set binding and jumping the rail.....? Observe and adjust.