Fixing Wheelset Flanges

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scoobydo

scoobydo

Member
Is there any way to fix wheelset flanges?
I have an MTH HO Daylight 4-8-4 Steamer and the front RP-25's seem to derail all the time. I have no problems with my other steamers (4-8-4's as well) or any of my rolling stock. Everything works smoothly with all my cars except this one. The rails seem fine as they are 22" radius curves (Kato Unitrack) and I have inspected most of the layout looking for hiccups.
Looking at the flanges, they almost seem not deep enough, but I will need to measure to make sure. I do not have the NMRA gauges, but wanted to check with my digital calipers. Anybody know what the distance from the flange to the tread should be?
If they are not big enough is there any way to fix this or would you just need to get new ones? Is sanding them down even an option?
The wheelsets are attached to a plastic truck and does not look like they come off.
I'm not sure if those pins can be knocked out or if it would be easier to just order the whole wheelset set from MTH.
I was also thinking about the spring on the truck. Could I add some shims to apply a bit more downforce on the trucks to lessen the derailment issues?
 
Best thing to do is get down to rail level with your eyes and see if you can spot the cause. Run the model back & forth over a spot where it derails all the time and see if you can spot what is going on. My first guess would be stretching the spring for some more downward force. 22" curves are a little tight for a 4-8-4 but MTH designs for tight curves. Do not alter the wheel flanges! You'll just make the problem worse!
 
Get an NMRA gauge, If you can afford an MTH 4-8-4, you can afford an NMRA guage. I suspect you'll find the front truck wheels are slightly out of gauge
 


UP2CSX said:
...If you can afford an MTH 4-8-4, you can afford an NMRA guage...
Click to expand...
:)LOL, I suppose you are correct.
But even with the gauge, what are the options if they are out of spec?
Replacements from MTH? or is there a solution with this set?
 
I'd suggest you find out if the wheels are the culprit before you worry to much about replacing them.
 
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