I’m hoping that this Forum can help, as there is a very broad spectrum of experience here. About 18 months ago, I won an auction for a dozen pair of HO scale Bettendorf trucks that were produced by Dan Kilgore Designs. In the box was an original receipt, indicating these were originally purchased in 1988 from the firm that was located in Plantation, Fl. These are some of the best rolling, sprung wheelsets I’ve come across for plastic wheels. Now the dilemma.
Has anybody ever heard of this company (or individual)? I Googled the name and found a couple of auctions on EBay, but nothing else. I would like to see if they (he) is/are still in business and how to get in touch with them. Has anyone else heard of this company or it’s products? Any advice?
I worked for Dan Kilgore Jr. His father Dan Sr. had a small room in his son’s company where he would assemble trains and parts. He called it Dan Kilgore Designs. This was back in the 70’s. It was a one man hobby business. I am sure it does not around today. What you see on EBay must be left over parts sold by a family member. I hope this helps.
The Dan Kilgore Designs trucks were originally produced by Lindberg, and they were exceptionally free-rolling. Whether DKD produced new parts, or whether they were assembling pieces made by Lindberg, I do not know.
Yes, E B Products still makes them. When you buy a Rib Side Models Milwaukee Road box car they come equipped with these trucks. It’s been a while since I’ve bought any, but they have Bettendorf, Andrews and roller bearing trucks, all available in various colors such as black, tuscan, oxide red, gray and blue. They also come in choice of wheels including brass and nickle silver. They were pretty reasonably priced too and really deserve to have a wider market .