Athearn Heavyweight wheels

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Have one car that the wheels are out of guage. When I try to adjust them, the plastic wheel moves, but I can’t seem to get the metal one to move, so the wheels are evenly spaced from each end… Will it move? If so, suggestions on how to do it without damaging something.

I would like to keep the ability to have lighting, so I’d prefer to keep wheels that will pick up properly.

Thank you,

Richard

2

The metal wheels definitely are moveable, as I put two of them, face-to-face on each of the support axles for my scratchbuilt turntable:

With the wheelset removed from the truck sideframes, grasp the axle with pliers and then twist the wheel, re-positioning it as necessary. If it’s difficult to twist, use a gripping aid, such as a rubber glove, jar-opening gripper, or a piece of sandpaper.

Wayne

3

Wayne,

Thanks for the suggestion. I did try holding the axle with pliers and turning, but only bare fingered. Will try again with a little more effort. If that doesn’t move them, I’ll use a jar opener.

Thanks for letting me know that they are moveable.

Nice looking job on the TT.

Richard

4

You could also replace them with Intermountain, NWSL or JaBee nicklesilver wheels for better rolling and electrical abillities.

5

Jay,

True on replacing. My preference for older Athearn replacements are JayBee or NWSL. The Intermountain axle is thinner and allows the trucks to sink a little on older Athearn trucks.

Richard

6

Good to know.