I have several 042 diesels I have never run because my only layout is at Christmas, an 031 4×5 loop, no switches. Wondering if I could run them before I put layout away! If it's a dumb question, I apologize in advance! Don't want to set any land speed records, just like to see them run! Thanks guys!
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You can run those engines on the straight tracks but don't use the 031 curves or they will derail. Sometimes you can run 042 stuff on 036 curves mainly because a certain company doesn't make 036 curves so they recommend 042 because that is a size they make.
Lee Fritz
The answer is "that depends". 
Each engine manufacturer rates their engines for use with their own track. In MTH's case, this would include RealTrax and ScaleTrax.
However, not all "O31" or "O42" track is the exact same diameter. It all depends at which rail (inside, center or outside) the measurement is made. Further, not all "O31" curves are actually 31" diameter. For example, Gargraves curves are actually "O32", not "O31".
If you use MTH track, your MTH engine is correctly rated. If you use another brand of track, you may get away with something smaller. I regularly run a couple of MTH Premier electrics (ALP-46 and Swiss Crocodile) that are rated "O54", on Gargraves "O42", which is a larger diameter than MTH's "O42" curves. On the other hand, my Premier L-5 electric requires "O54", and will derail on curves that are "O53-15/16".
Thanks for the responses! I was pretty sure I couldn't but hoping! I waited this long, I can wait a little longer for a bigger layout! Sure would have been nice though! Oh well! Thanks again!
I would rebuild your Christmas layout with 0-42 curves so can handle those locomotives.
Tried that but not enough room, layout is tucked into a corner with walls on 3 sides! In the process of selling this house and buying another! Just have to wait---and dream!!! LOL
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