I am having a major issue of keeping the CZ on my O72 curves, they come off the rails every time. Currently pulling 10 cars (waiting for the observation, baggage, etc). Most of the layout curves are, or will be larger than O72, but there are some critical areas on the layout that are not easily changed to a larger curve. The layout uses only Ross switches. They do not seem to be a problem. It is the Gargraves sectional tracks that seem to be a problem, both wood ties and plastic. I have had some of the cars since 2010 but have never run them. I am finally running them now because I sold my 21" K-Line CZ cars with the anticipation of the Atlas set finally being completed, I hope. This has been the plan ever since the Atlas CZ announcement in 2009. I have tried to increase the curves slightly by forcing the curve wider, it helped some, but not a cure. I thought of removing a little of the material on the car where the truck hits the inside of the skirt, it would not take much, but just doesn't seem like the best plan. I believe the sectional tracks I am using when laid and secured are actually closer to a O75 when measured center rail to center rail. If any of you are running these you might check to see if any of the your cars are lifting the wheels (inside axel) off the track. I have not had any issues running other cars or engines on these tracks, including the new Lionel Big Boy.
My questions to the forum are:
1. Are others having an issue?
2. is anyone using Atlas O72 and not having an issue
3. is anyone using "Ross" O72 sectionals and not having an issue
4. is anyone using Gargraves, wood, or plastic O72 and not having an issue
5. has anyone increased the inter-rail dimension on curves (the ID dimension of the outside rails).
Thanks for any thoughts or comments.
Buzz
