*****UPDATE****** The problem was the loco - not the turnout.

A have a Walthers #8 left hand curved turnout that is giving me fits. Every time I run my loco (Proto 2000 U30 4 axle) through the turnout it derails at the exact same spot when the turnout is thrown for the left route. It does not derail when the turnout is in the other position. I've rolled a number of cars through the turnout and they don't derail. Any ideas how to solve this or do I need to pull it out and replace it with a non-curved turnout?

Hello all. I am in need of some advice on how to get my Athearn locomotive to run. Heres the story.

It was a gift from my wife for my birthday. The guy told her he had taken it apart at one time and had put it back together but could not get it running.

I noticed the metal band that goes across the top of the engine was missing so I soldered wires to each of the tabs that stick up from one side of the power trucks. Both are on the same side so they are getting power from one rail. Soldered those wires to each end of the top motor clip.

Good evening all.  I am looking to embark on the "lifetime layout" journey this winter.  I have never built a basement size layout before.  The unfinished side of my basement will finally begin to house my dream railroad - 25' x 30' double deck Erie Lackawanna Marion 2nd Sub circa 1964. I'm planning on installing the necessary electrical, drywall and drop ceiling this winter so as to begin bench work and track laying next fall. 

I am building a diorama of a farm, with most of the structures based on plans from the South Dakota State University web site.  http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/extension-aben/buildingplans/  They many plans online, and many really old plans from the early 1900's.  I am modeling 1949, so I have chosen appropriate plans.  For most of the buildings and details, I am drawing and 3d printing the items.  My first project was the smokehouse.