screws & bolts for models

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

I need to order in bulk screws the same size as the ones that hold trucks on Athearn freight cars. What size do I order?

2

the standard is the 2-56 screw…i use the ones with the tapered heads instead of the flat head kind…they have a bit larger head on them and you won’t have to use a washer under the head to hold the trucks in place…i get them from Ace hardware but they have to special order them for me…I get them in the 1/2" length and cut them to fit with a dremel tool cut off wheel…you’ll also need the KADEE 2-56 screw tap set , styrene tubing in the 3/8" and 1/8" size, a 3/8" drill bit, AC glue, a razor saw, flat jeweler’s file and possibly a hobby knife…here is my webpage album that explains how to mount the trucks to most rolling stock other than the athearn cars…click the “next” button to see a series of pictures with explanations on how to mount the trucks http://community.webshots.com/photo/137793353/300603848TqSSYb chuck

3

Try “Discount Trains Online” for specific Athearn screws. The link below should take you directly to the Athearn screw section (scroll to the bottom 2/3rds of the page for screws). Steve

http://www.discounttrainsonline.com/HO-Scale-Parts-Trucks-and-Couplers-Athearn/HO_TRU_140_1.html

4

Every time this question comes up, this is the site I recommend. http://www.mcmaster.com/

5

Angus is absolutely right. McMaster-Carr is a GREAT place to order from. Quick service and the prices are generally very good. How quick? One time I ordered a part from them and had it in-hand in 4 hours - using REGULAR mail service! (They must have tossed the package onto the truck as it was it was pulling away.)

They also have an amazing warehouse inventory. Are you needing a manhole cover? You can order it from McMaster-Carr. (Unfortunately, it only comes in 1:1 scale, not HO. [:)])

Tom

6

Thanks everyone. I have the information I need and a new great place from which to order. Jim

7

I went to my local hardware store this weekend in search of 2-56 screws. The only material that they came in was stainless steel. Kind of overkill and gets expensive if you need a large quantity.

8

the stainless steel 2-56 screws aren’t all that expensive…I get a box of 100 for just under $7.00 at Ace hardware…chuck

9

I have had satisfaction from Microfasteners http://www.microfasteners.com/ Delivery usually takes 7-9 days to South Australia, but it can take that long to get a letter from Sydney. Prices are good, range is good, and on-line ordering is really easy!