For sentimental reasons, I’d like to keep the thing running, as it was a Christmas present, long ago, from my father, who is terminally ill. I have long wanted to re-motor it and upgrade the wheels to the correct size and flange contours. Does anyone have any suggestions as to whether a complete replacement mechanism can be had or should I try to replace individual wheels, etc.? If I remember correctly, the Rivarossi wheels are undersized for a S-1a, more closely matching the wheel size for a class S. I would need 64" drivers and replacements for the pilot and trailing trucks.
Thanks for any ideas, etc.
I always thought that engine had a really nice body and tender casting and I can well understand a desire to keep it alive on your layout, even apart from the sentimental attachment (which I understand – it is why I have retained my AHM Rivarossi Y6b 2-8-8-2 some 41 years after it was maybe my most exciting Christmas present ever).
It is hard to imagine replacement wheels where the existing side rods etc would work without some real effort. When I think of replacement mechanisms in today’s day and age I think of Bowser but I also wonder about this new 2-10-2 that IHC is advertising. (I have not compared valve gear, crossheads, driver size, or other such details).
Dave Nelson
I can’t remember where I had seen it mentioned, but somebody supposedly has a can motor that is a direct bolt in replacement for the old AHM/Rivarossi open framed motors. Maybe someone else has a better memory or direct experience with it. Sorry I can’t help with the wheels.