Beginner issues

[Diamondwizard]

So I have a Bachmann g scale Northstar and after a couple years this year the front wheel set up
Seems looser and when the straight track meets curve it derails. I have to say for
My 2 grandsons maybe it's the carpet we set
The track on? Can it work on carpet? Also the connectors just undo after a little
Bit between cars. It was so frustrating I actually put zip ties between the cars. The poor Grandchildren look to me to fix it!?
Any hope to so Some things? Put it on a plywood base?

[the Bach-man]

Dear Wiz,
The North Star is a rather old set, so the track connections might be loose. You can use small zip ties to snug them together, and this should ameliorate the other issues.
Good luck!
the Bach-man

[wraujr]

To keep track together, rubber bands, one on each side connecting the ties.
Would be better to have track on hardwood/vinyl floor or sheet of plywood/mdf over carpet.
Works OK on Berber carpet (short loop).

[RailMan63]

Hi!
For my money, I'd invest in some nice, new,or used, brass track.
Bachmann makes some really nice solid brass track that is held together with small screws on each side of the rails.
I've never had a problem with derailing since I invested in the solid brass track!
It's a bit pricey, and you'll need a box of straight, and one box of curved  tracks,
5 foot diameter minimum recommended. You can get away with 4 foot diameter, but it's a little tight for the 4-6-0.
Check Ebay, and Amazon for the best deals.
That's where I got mine.
Something to consider.
Good luck !
Mike
PS: I have the Northstar Express too. It's a version #5 Anniversary chassis.And I love it!

[Loco Bill Canelos]

Dave told me he bought a new front truck and it was the new type with the single screw setup.  I thought I would post the reply here for everyone to see.

https://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=69_671_148&products_id=8545

Dave,  The best thing you could do is drill one hole in your chassis and use it like it was meant to be. This type was first made by Barry of Barry's Big Trains as a replacement for the type of original front truck you have and worked so amazingly well that Bachmann copied his concept.  Barry is no longer with us, but his truck lives on thru Bachmann. I would use a good hot soldering iron with flux applied to the wires being sure to put the smallest size shrink wrap possible on the wire before you do the soldering. Some guys have also used a crimp type of connector to avoid soldering.  Some also removed the wiring to the front truck altogether. Here is a video which shows the new style truck installed so you get a better idea of what is involved. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYoXNN7L26g  Thanks Ricky!

I have been following your post and from what I would say your biggest problem is most likely with your track.  Doing it on a carpet is Ok unless it is a shag type of carpet.  There is no need to buy brass track if you only run the train at Christmas time, but if you run it year round I would consider the brass track.

With the track you have it is critical that it be connected very tightly and laid down perfectly with no kinks whatsoever. Sometimes the only problem with the original front truck is that the wires interfere with the movement of the truck, so be sure to push the wires up and out of the way. I also recommend you use a dry teflon type of lube and apply it to the slot the truck swings in. Can't remember who said the wheels with the metal axles are insulated is correct.

Having said all that You will never regret using the new truck as designed and it is worth the time and effort to do it. 

Take Care and impress those Grandkids!!!

Bill