Lack of pulling power of Marklin 2-10-0 Locos

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I have just been putting together motive power and stock for the Inverness exhibition next month. No problems with 6 coupled locos (2'C1', 4-6-2) pulling a seven or eight coach train but I am at a loss when it comes to the lack of draw-bar 'pull' of the 1'E (2-10-0) locos of which I have two that I want to run. For instance, My 1'C/2-6-0 BR 74 tank loco can happily push or pull a track cleaning wagon with a couple of other wagons but the 1'E just sat there spinning its wheels. Is anyone else having this problem? Can anyone offer a solution? Has anyone tried Bullfrog Snot on these 1'E locos? Is the lighter axle load the cause of the problem?

Any help much appreciated.

Chris.

Hi Chris, Probably Robert has an answer as he is one of the big Euro models here in the US. Until he chimes in, I would guess that the loco lacks weight. But let's wait for others to add their thoughts. Cheers, Jim CCRR:unsure:

Chris,

Weight is the issue. I love Marklin locos, but these lack weight required for good traction and hauling. I typically run short consists with my steam locomotives for just this reason. I justify it since European freight trains tend to be shorter in length. The good news is that if you are willing to modify the shell, you will find room inside the shell to add a little extra weight. Some use thin lead sheets glued into place. Other uses powdered tungsten (found at golf shops) mixed with glue to fill the crevices. Even a little extra weight will help.

For those operating Marklins GG1, there are large voids under the shell so adding weight is easy (and a must).

Just watch out for shorting. You may need to insulate your weights to avoid shorting the loco.

I am intrigued by the Bullfrog Snot. I have a sample bottle here that I need to test. But I am hearing good things. It will add traction. and should allow for greater pulling power.

Rob

Actually it is because the wheels are not sprung. The traction does not depend on the axle load but on the total weight on the driven wheels. So for the same weight 2 engines with a different number of wheels driven should pull as much. But if the wheels are not sprung, not all weight is put on the track and this results in less power for an engine with more wheels driven.

EDIT: the extra weight will help because it will come on those wheels that make contact.

Hi Guys.

I forgot to tick the 'notify me' box so this is a little belated.

Several good suggestions there. I have some lead sheeting (from a builder friend) which I have been using to add a bit of extra weight to wagons. (I learnt the hard way that you cannot get into tenders as they are welded at the front end. Fortunately I have spare couplings.) I will see if the lead is thin enough to add to the inside of the loco shell. If not, I will try BS on the rear pair of wheels on a 1'E. I have been worried about using it as you have to keep the loco running for quite a while until the snot has set. I haven't worked out a reliable way to do that without wearing out the wheels yet.

Best wishes to all,
Chris.