BLI N&W A

[NW Modeling List]

Hi Bill,
I would check spring tension on the pilot truck.  Try picking up the front of the engine by the front cylinders raising it around a half inch above the rail.  If the pilot truck does not drop down somewhat below the level of the bottom of the front cylinders, the retainer screw for the pilot truck is probably too tight.  If I remember correctly, there is a small spring underneath the screw for the pilot truck.  If the screw is too loose the pilot truck will be “floppy” and not exert adequate tension.  If the screw is too tight the spring is too compressed and no downforce is exerted on the rail.  I would also check gauge on the pilot truck axle and the drivers with an NMRA gauge.  I had to adjust the spring tension on the pilot truck on one my BLI “A’s” as well.  I hope this helps.
Highball,
Chris Dalton 
Bluefield, WV

Sent from my iPhone

> On Mar 16, 2023, at 7:01 AM, NW Modeling List via NW-Modeling-List <nw-modeling-list at nwhs.org> wrote:
> 
> My first time posting here. I am modeling the N&W late steam era (mid-‘50s) with focus on coal mining region.  There will never be a diesel loco on my layout!
> 
> I have an early (‘83 vintage) BLI N&W A and a later BLI A. The “modern” A runs great.  The ‘83-vintage A seems to lack sufficient downforce on its front truck, which derails everywhere for no reason. 
> 
> Has anyone else experienced this problem?  Does anyone have a suggestion for a way to increase the load (pressure) on the pilot truck to keep it engaged with the track?
> 
> Bill Demarest
> N&W Steam Only
> 
> 
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