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A reader writes:

What radius track does Lionel G scale 4-4-2 Atlantic need to run on. Jumps off on my Bachmann haulers standard curve track.

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Technically the 4-4-2 will run on a 4'-diameter circle, but it runs WAY better on a larger circle. The track has to be almost perfect, whatever the radius. BTW, I stole the "pilot wheels" (the little ones in front) off a Bachmann Big Hauler and put on the front of my Lionel 4-4-2, and the extra weight of the metal wheels helps. Also I stretched out the spring that puts pressure on the pilot truck a little so more of the loco's weight goes there. That doesn't keep the drivers from crawling up out of tight curves, but it does help keep the pilot wheels on the track.

I bought lead weights to way the thing down, but I haven't done that yet.

For me one of the biggest hassles is the paper-clip-like wire connecting the valve gear popping loose. But my track is probably bumpier than yours.

I'm a PRR fan, so I appreciate Lionel's attempt to give me a PRR-designed locomotive (It's roughly patterned after a PRR E-6 Atlantic). But the engineering is not up to the level of the other Large Scale manufacturers.

Here's a link to another fellow's very long description of the thing and possible fixes for various problems:

http://girr.org/girr/tips/tips1/atlantic_tips.html

Best of luck, and have a great holiday season,

Paul

The reader wrote back:

Thank you for your response. Figured it out. Plastic wheel insets on the big metal wheels were not flush. Pressed them in place and engine runs fine on the 4' diameter circle. Got a deal on ebay for $100.00. This seems to be the latest in the series and engine has enough power and weight to pull four Bachmann PRR passenger cars. Got a "sound" activator from Lionel and the bell and whistle works fine. Like the idea of the "pilot wheels". I have an extra set so will give it a try. Thanks again for the response and the link. I'm a PRR fan also. Put together this wreaking crane for the fun of it. Not very authentic but just a project to enjoy. Based on a big hauler tender chassis. (most expensive parts were the passenger trucks!