I’ve decided to take the plunge into Proto 87 as I’m contemplating my future layout plans. And while diesels, which I like in addition to steam, plus rolling stock look relatively easy to convert, the big hold up is converting steam. Since I do not have a fleet by any means I’m asking is there someone who can either modify commercial steam model wheels to fit? Or even make new ones for what I’d hope is not an obscene amount of money? I’m only thinking of one, eventually two models at the moment.
Drivers for steam locomotives are one of the two issues that have kept me out of Proto87 (the other is a small increase in minimum radius for steam locomotives due to reduced slop between wheel and track gauge).
Modifying existing drivers generally requires a lathe or similar equipment, and pretty strong driver centers. The whole wheel - and the flange - are considerably thinner than the NMRA specs. There are a couple of suppliers of Proto87 drivers. ProtoFour (British practice, OO scale, 4mm/ft) drivers are generally considered to be within Proto87 tolerances, and can be used. Perhaps the best place to start in the locating of resources is the Proto87 Yahoo Group.
When converting a model steam locomotive, chassis equalization and width over the drivers must also be considered. Many-to-most model steam engines in HO are not equalized because it’s simpler and cheaper to use rigid frames. The more sensitive Proto87 wheels usually need equalization to compensate for less than perfect track. And HO steam locomotives are typically wider than scale through the steam chests and the pistons due to the greater than scale width of the drivers forcing the rods to be further out than scale.