Okay, sorry I didn't read the post closely and missed the connection with steamers. What I found very handy with every steamer that had from pilot wheels was to add a small bit of lead to the flat part between the wheels. You can find sticky back lead at most hobby shops and at most golf courses. Use some scissors and cut off a small corner of the lead. You will probably have to hit the lead piece with a hammer to flatten it. A drop of glue if the sticky back is ruined and use tweezers to place between the wheels. This will cut down on pilots derailing by a big margin. Remember don't eat the lead as the State of California has deemed it (and everthing else) unhealthy to touch or eat! I never wore gloves nor did I eat it but I'm still good to go. Jim:-)

Since Marklin first came out with the double slip switch you are talking about, Z scalers have been disappointed with their performance. Most take the cross switch out and figure another way to make it work. Four turnouts in a row is a lot to ask a Z scale loco to perform at any slow speed. Your turnouts have to be tuned to perfection and still slow speed through them will be problematic.<br /><br />Possibly someone who has modified their double slip to work and will help you out. Is there a way to avoid continuous turnouts on your layout? Jim:-)