Walthers Caboose

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Some time ago I asked for help finding the article on modifying a Walthers 30’ Wood Caboose (3 Window Offset cupola) to run on 18"r track. Thank you to all of you that responded. I have the information, but still haven’t found an around-to-it.

Since I am planning a new layout, I’m thinking of eliminating the problem by having larger radius curves. Now I have two questions for those of you that have run them.

First, will they go through #4 turnouts?

Second, what is the minimum radius you would recommend?

Thank you for your time.

Have fun,

Richard

2

I can’t answer your question regarding #4 turnouts. since my tightest turnouts are #6, but, I can tell you that even with 24" radius curves, some trimming of the inside corners of the steps still require trimming.

3

Here is a post about that problem. Doctorway solution is the way to go and it’s not so difficult as it appears.

http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/88/t/254769.aspx

4

Making it clickable:

http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/88/t/254769.aspx

5

Thank you for the responses. It looks like I may have to get the razor saw out yet.

Have fun,

Richard

6

The old MDC three-window / offset cupola wood cabooses (in recent years sold by Athearn) may be a better choice for a layout with sharp curves / turnouts. I have a couple, and have run them thru no.4 turnouts and 22"R curves on my layout with no problems. Haven’t tested 18"R, but pretty sure that’s what they’re designed for - would probably do 15"R if necessary.

7

Stix,

I think you are right, I have several, they do fine. However I was already given a custom painted Walthers caboose so that option is past.

Thank you,

Richard