Train Wheels

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Hello Everyone!

I have another question concerning my restoration project. I have attached pictures of the wheels that are currently on my electric engine as well as the ones that I am looking to buy. The wheels on my electric train appear to be wheels that should go on a steam engine? I am hoping someone with experience can verify as I am wanting to purchase some reproduction wheels but, the reproduction wheels do not look the same.

Was American Flyer known to use steam engine wheels on electrics as well, or did someone get to this train before me and try to restore it?

Thank you,

Brian

http://img163.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=521956725_Train_2_122_173lo.jpg

http://img270.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=219564726_wheels_122_506lo.jpg

2

Completely normal.

3

Early electric motors were often too large to mount alongside the axles, as is the modern practice. The motors were instead within the carbody and connected to the wheels by cranks and rods, much like steam locomotives. So it is not unreasonable for an old toy electric locomotive to have rods on the drivers. Here is a picture of a retired Krokodil that is on display in Erstfeld, Switzerland:

File:Ce6-8.jpeg

(If you ever go to Erstfeld, stay at the Frohsinn and ask for a front room. It’s right across the street from the train station: http://www.frohsinn-erstfeld.ch/en/?language=en)