I’m running my T55 ES44s for the first time on my shelf layout but I’m noticing that the plow is getting caught on any slight bumps on my KATO Unitrack. It seems this part is very low to the track. If I remove the plow, they run fine, even if they don’t look as prototypical.
A. Is anyone else having this problem.
B. If so, what are you doing? Trimming the plow or replacing it with another manufacturer’s part?
I called the manufacturer, told them of the trouble and they had me ship the unit in for repair. They removed the brass plow and reinstalled it in the correct position, solving the problem.
Don Z.
I have some Athearn C44-9Ws that snag the tiny tip sticking up from the Atlas switch motors, and actually throw the switch. I haven’t dealt with it yet. I don’t know whether to take a Dremel tool, and cut the tips off shorter, or trim the plow.
Just re-position it. What’s the big deal?
David B
Even when I install plows, I find that I will hold the plow high enough to clear an opposing “glad hand” of a coupler. Even if they may clear once coupled on straight, they can bind against the plow on a tight turn. My problem is even compounded by the use of the Chessie rock pilot and it’s convex nature. The curve of the “glad hand” has to clear the plow/ pilot on each unit with one yet clear the coupled unit.
Walther’s Goo or Pliobond works best for me to mount. Flexible enough joint but easily removed if needed.
Even though it may not be exactly prototypical raising the plow, it is not that obvious and the benefits outweight and cons.