Derailing front trucks on a Spectrum 2-8-0

[Dom]

I have a new Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 that I seem to be having a
problem keeping on the rails. My layout has 19", 11" and one 9 3/4 "
radius curves.
The front trucks of the locomotive will derail randomly going into the
curve.
At first I thought it was the 9 3/4 curve.
But, it's now happening on any radius curve.
I've also noticed that the front trucks seem to be rubbing on
the front of both steam cylinders. I can see where some paint is already worn off.
It looks to me like the front trucks are mounted to close to the
steam cylinder. Any ideas no how I can fix this ?

PS It also very, very slow. I've tried loosening the three screws on
the retaining plate but it didn't help.

 

[eightyeightfan1]

Try filing away some of the cylinders where the truck is making contact. Touch it up with some paint, if it noticeable. Don't do a lot. File a little, test, then file a little more until the derailment stops(If you think this is the problem). Or you could a wheel set out of gage, which is the more common problem.

As far as the loco running slow, something in the drive train might be binding, the worm gear, or even a drive rod. I'd check these out, just to make sure.