Thanks. It happens with both locos running either one at a time or simultaneously. The curve where they slow down is near a switcher, so maybe the connection there is the culprit (visually there seems to be no problem, but I still have to disassemble to check properly). I cleaned and swapped the curves around and saw some improvement (which leads me to believe it is indeed the switcher) but I still want to check the voltage issue. The reviews for the multimeter found are 3.5/5 stars, with mixed opinions on reliability. I am still looking. There are others for some 15 bucks elsewhere that seem reasonable. My layout is "beginners within the beginners" category on a 4 by 6.5, and the trains run very nicely throughout the rest of the track.

Thanks ACY!

I googled it and relatively close, yes. The website has 7 function digital multimeters for 6 dollars.

Thanks a lot. Following up, what other similar passenger cars in your catalog fit an 18 inch radius (more modern ones)?'

Richg, that was very helpful, thanks!

What is the minimum recommended radius for the Silver Series double-deck push pull commuter car (No. 13249 for example)? Have been searching all over with no luck. Thanks!

In the meantime, does it cause any harm to the locos?

It is the nickel silver EZ track... Will check out the connections. Thanks!

The track is new! No visible stains, but will clean anyway. Any other possibilities?

I though it would not matter. I have a Bachmann cargo car that had a similar problem. I took off all the axles and put them back on (randomly) and the problem was solved. I guess by chance I put them back the "right' way...

In case you were wondering, I bought extra Bachmann couplers (overshank/medium) and the random uncoupling of the Bachmann F7 loco with the other brand that starts with Ath passenger cars was resolved.

Hi all,
I just set up my new HO DCC Commander on a 4 x 6.5 (0.5 in thick) birch plywood sheet in my basement (cannot fit anything bigger for the moment) and will be my long-term project. I bought the expansion set and a couple of extra 9 in straights. Both of my DCC locomotives slow down on a segment of the track (a curve section), but then pick up again. I checked and seems all is at the same level. is there any other reason why locomotives could slow down (voltage or so)?
Thanks.

Jerry, I tried several addresses (but not all). I had it on 6 and changed back to 3, then 2 and then 8; all same problem. When I first set in, i assigned address 6 to it and was working fine. I knew there was power on the tracks as i was running my other loco ( which is working just fine). I sent it to PA yesteday. Doe the service fellows tell you what was wrong? If so, will let everyone know. Since This is my first set and it is too new, I decided not to mess with it, but all your suggestions are noted and appreciated!

What about the coupler height gauge?

Jz, which AC terminal do you have?