Help! New berkshire derailing - FIXED!

Don't have the engine; not familiar with the particulars, but:

 

- are the wheels/axles actually turning in the new bushings?

 

- is the truck itself properly re-mounted on its pivot and all related bits and pieces

  re-installed, assuming that you took it off to do the work? 

 

- did you bend something accidentally?

 

Sorry; that's all I got.

It sounds like one side is binding up, which would make it ride up.  Are you sure they are seated correctly?  Mine spins freely.  Since it's doing it now that you changed them, it has to be Related.

Those bushings have to be pushed all the way into the truck. If they are not, the pilot truck hits the steam chest, limiting the turning ability causing it to derail every single time. I ran into this when I glue the broken bushings into my Dad's Berk.

 

If you have the engine upside down, look at those bushings. Are they flush with the bottom of the truck? They should not be, if they are, the engine will derail. You gotta really put some pressure on them to get them up in there far enough.  

You should be able to move the pilot enough to one side to confirm the bearing is latched on. There is a small plastic catch that secures the bearing to the pilot. Use a small flat head screw driver to push in place. Lionel also recommended that they be glued in once replaced.

Thanks everyone  for your advice.  I went back and looked at the bushings.  The axle and wheels spun freely.  There was some play in one bushing.  I removed it and was able to seat it farther dowe into the groove. All works well now.  Thanks again for your help.  Happy New Year eveveryone.

Happy New Year to you as well, JSP. Glad Doug was able to give you good advice and now your new engine works perfectly. You will love this engine as you get to put it through it's paces.