NW2 can-motor switcher problems?

Sell the Powered unit and keep the calf. Bou the WBB version and you will not have a motor problem again!

Never had issues with them derailing like that.  Maybe the wheel spacing was off.   G

Besides checking the wheel gauge, check to insure the truck swings freely and is not binding. Also check the rear coupler for the same thing.

Larry

George-

Do the NW-2s derail on the same spot(s) on your layout? Sometimes locomotives can be very picky with seemingly minor track irregularities. It could also be the wheel gauge (distance between the wheels) slightly out of tolerance, causing the truck to derail. Regauging wheelsets is not difficult, and can be done with a wheel puller and press, or (less precisely) with a bench vise.

Another option may be to add small lead weights above the nonpowered truck to improve locomotive traction.

-John

The gauging of the wheels may be an issue, and Ill look into it when I'm back home, but I sort of doubt it as all three of these that I have have the same problem, and also problem fixed without re-gauging when I added a motor to the second truck on one.  As far as where it happens, there are some places more common then others, but pretty much any curve will do, and my basement floor "layout' at the moment is all O72.  As for weight, I made my first serviceable by rubber banding 3 rolls of pennies to the back end, but even this wasn't fool proof.  I'm wondering if perhaps placing weight in the non-powered truck itself may help.  

As far as selling and replacing, I don't think it's in the cards, as these were gifts that I plan to keep, and if not for that, I'm a steam guy, not something I would buy myself.  

 Thanks for the suggestions, folks, I'll let you know if anything turns up to work.  

Is there an unusual amt of up and down play in the truck? I had a similar problem with a K Line unit that would jump the track on a curve while pulling. I put a spacer washer  between the retaining clip and the frame, and that solved the problem. 

Don

George-

I have a Lionel SD-18 (circa 1990) that had the same issue. The unit had a factory installed weight just above the center fuel tank, which dramatically improved tracking. 

Looking over the exploded parts view for your NW2, it seems the trucks and frame have slots for stamped metal struts with springs, yet these parts were not included. I'm wondering if these parts will help keep the trucks on the rail. Take a look at the exploded parts view for the SD-18 here; the parts I am referring to are #s 24, 36, 39 and 46. Most parts dealers should have these items in stock.

-John