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I started this Christmas running a 261e MTH LCT engine with 600 series cars and it went very well. These all have box couplers. Next I got a three car set Peacock green with latch couplers and although they seemed a little stiff around corners, they run well. This was on a loop without switches.

I just got my MTH LCT 256 with 700 series cars and these latch couplers seems to be causing the wheels of the cars to lift off the track going thru switches. I needed to  bent a few so they match up better but I would not say they are solid runners. 

Anyone have any tips ...running on Fastrack with 036 and 031 switches and curves.

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I'm running the NH version of that set on K-Line Super Snap O-31 track thru two switches.... so far no derailment issues.... with one exception.  If I run 4 cars (3 + 1 optional), everything is OK, if I add the 5th (3 + 2 optional) car I get a string-lining derailment.  Seems like it's too much weight for a tight curve.... derails on the curves not at the switches.  Disappointing, but I really like the set!

I use Fastrack for my main layout, but wanted something that looked a little more tinplate-ish for my tinplate layout.

Eddie,

Wish you would have talked about it here on the OGR before you built your tight curve layout.   I used the real K-Line SS Switches for quite some time with my Tin Plate, in order to eliminate the problem you are experiencing 060 and above for most Engines and rolling stock, 072 makes everything run like a dream.  I know its a space thing, Tin Plate runs best on big curves and especially the original 072 K-Line SS Switches.  Regret the day I sold all my original low voltage SS Switches big time.  This was way before DCS was ever invented however.

 

Yam,

For best results running Tin on FasTrack, use 072 Curves and Switches, I do have a couple 060's also however the 12 wheel Tenders have trouble even with the 060's.   The Consist you have pictured should constantly run well on 060 and larger.

PCRR/Dave

The 263E Work Train with 12 wheel Tender, running on 072 curves on the over head FasTrack shelf layout.  Big FT curves work best for Tin Plate Trains.

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Last edited by Pine Creek Railroad

Well ... 072 curves are not an option for me. I will remove it from the high-line and run at 1st level. I have a loop which has 036 Fastrack and switches. I had no problem running the 261e  and 600 series cars with latch couplers on that. 

Eddie, good point about added too many cars ... I will remember that before purchasing add on cars.

YAMAWHO,

   You should have little troubles running the 600/2600 Engines and Rolling Stock, keep a decent speed and a decent number of cars behind your engines, and your 036 FT should work decently with that Tin.  Think of it as 027 Tin Plate.  Now the 800/2800 series with the 12 wheel Tenders are going to cause some problems.

Good luck and happy Running.

PCRR/Dave

Last edited by Pine Creek Railroad

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