Need help with MDC Roundhouse siderod attachment

[Charlie B]

Hello Mark and welcome to Big Blue.  I am not the expert but here are my thoughts.  If the screws are of the right thread which you will know if they tighten without using an air impact, then it may be they are too short and tightening down on the rods. The rods should show some slop and usually there are a few spacers too.  If you can determine what the screw is and the thread a longer screw can be used and you may find finials at Walmart  to use for spacers if you cant make them on your own.  Also check ho seeker for a diagram of your locomotive https://hoseeker.net/mdcinstructions.html which might give you the proper size. As long as the threads are good in the drivers the problem should be easy to solve.  I am sure Wayne will chip in when he has time with even better advise. 
Don't be a stranger. We enjoy new blood. 
Charlie