Problem with Williams engine and 022 switches

What is the engine type(diesel GP-38, SD-45, FM Trainmaster or steam engine; 4-4-2 or 4-8-4 or a GG-1) and stock number on the engine and the number on the switch? Some people call all switches 022's and they are not 022's but modern Lionel switches like the 6-23011 in O gauge.

Lee Fritz

Engine is a FM Diesel Locomotive on tubular 0 gauge track with Lionel Remote Control No. 022 "0" Gauge Switches. Rear truck hits something on switches and also jumps all.

Is it a Fairbanks Morse train-master? The side of the truck assembly could be too wide; look at the step area above the wheel-set and see if it is hitting. I have not had any problems with any of my Williams engines on 022 switches. 

Also are you going through the straight or curved section of the switch? Is this a brand new Williams by Bachmann engine or a used Williams engine? Sometimes long engines like an SD-45 or FM Trainmaster can hit the switch housing when going through the curved section of the switch.

A possible cure would be to go up to 042 switch in O gauge track.

I have had terrible issues with the newer Lionel 6-23010 series switches in O gauge and Williams engines.

Lee Fritz

It's a new FM engine, my first Williams. Sides are not hitting. The rear truck hits hard on all switches. Runs ok in the opposite direction. 

Check to make sure the trucks pivot freely and aren't binding in one direction.  I've had engines where a wire going to one truck didn't have enough slack and would let the truck swivel fine in one direction, but not the other.  Also check the gauge of your wheelsets.

Thanks for the info.  I think the wiring on the truck is tight like you said.  The truck isn't turning enough to go around the 031 track in places. I took the cork road bed out from under the switches to lower them a little. Seems to be working better. I'll check the gauge. Thanks for the info, I think I'm going in the right direction now. Thanks to all.