RP25 -how important

[LotoQuestions]

How important is RP25 contour to operations.

Where do you decide to draw the line if leaving old wheels?

Do you only worry about it if there is mechanical interference with trackwork or?

I dont think it would be worth modifying car wheels but what about engines or is replacement the only viable solution.

thanks ,,, ken

 

[Espeefan]

Modify? Why bother? Just replace 'em. If you have stuff with the old pizza cutter flanges, it will run ok on code 100 track, and even code 83, and go through most turnouts. Code 70 and below will give you problems. I replace all my wheelsets with metal ones, and am beginning to do the smaller flange sizes and narrower tread widths as well, because they look really good. If you have code 100 track and just want to run trains, leave 'em if it suits you. That's what the hobby is all about, what suits you!

 

[UP2CSX]

Most older cars with the non-RP25 wheels are not worth the money to replace the wheelsets and, usually, the couplers. If youo have a nice engine who's only problem is the larger flanges, the size of your rails will dictate the answer. It should run fine on code 100 track, and most code 83 track, although code 83 switch flangeways may not be deep enough for the larger flanges. Anything smaller would preclude reliable operation of the engine. Engine wheels can either be replaced or the flanges can be turned down on a lathe. Replacement can be expensive and turning them down is tedious and requires the right machinery. I guess it comes down to how you really like and want to save the engines.