I am planning a new layout and would like to use code 55 rail (and maybe some code 40)for more realistic look. Freight wheels I can find. Where can I find new wheels for passenger cars? Which locomotive brands will run on code 55? Are replacement drivers available for Rivarossi steam locos (flanges are too deep)? Any help on these questions would be appreciated. Thanks.
Mach
I would concur that with MicroEngineering code 55 track and turnouts, you’ll have no problems. I did use a bit of code 40 years ago and found it was OK when laid with the Pliobond cement technique. This gives the full clear rail height for the flanges as opposed to spike heads reducing it.
David
I believe if you plan to use Micro Engineering or PECO Code 55 track you will find that all currrent Diesels made by Atlas, Kato, and Life-Like will have no problem. All current Micro-Trains, Intermountain, Red Caboose, Bowser and Atlas cars will also run with no problems. NWSL makes replacement 36 inch wheels if the ones you have will not run on Code 55. Replacing trucks with M-T passenger trucks is the best option in my opinion.
Code 40 is another matter. M-T and NWSL low profile wheels will have to be substituted on everything, and there are no substitutions available for Steam locomotives and many Diesels.
Atlas code 55 is perfectly serviceable if you are building your fleet today. If you have a bunch of older stuff, particular Micro Trains, you can obtain replacement wheel sets from Atlas, Fox Valley, or if you happen to own an armored car full of cash, Northwest Short Line.
You can use the same wheel sets on your passenger equipment, depending on the trucks. If you have Con Cor passenger cars, they’re already low profile. The only trick would be if your passenger coaches are lit using track power. NWSL would be your best bet, as I’m sure they have special insulated axles for power pick up.
It’s not impossible to turn down the flanges on your older steamers. I’ve done some old diesels by stapling two flat files to the workbench, then running power to them with some alligator clips. I put the engine over the two files, and apply power to them, thus turning the wheels. It’s a good idea to take apart the drive and clean out any metal shavings that might migrate up into the gear train.
Sound advice today for what appears to be an eternal question…[^]
Lee
Peco code 55 is expensive right now because of the weak dollar against the pound. If money is an issue and you can satisfy yourself with micro engineering or atlas code 55 stuff you will likely save a fair bit of money. Also, the peco stuff has British tie spacing.
That said, I have been using the Peco product on my small 3x5 layout and have found it to be a great product. I have not used either the atlas or ME stuff to compare. The flex track is a bit springy which makes nice curves but can make gapping the rails on curves tough. The turnouts require a hole drilled for tortoise switch machines and will need to be modified for reliable DCC operation.
I dont have any legacy N-scale equipment, but from what I have read the peco rail does not have the problem with the wheels.
Chris