Changing traction tires on cab forward?

I took out the screw that holds the eccentric crank, and removed the drive rod, or whatever you call the rod that comes from the steam chest to the driven driver. Sliding the drive rod out of the steam chest allows removal of the screw through the now-open space in the guides.

I have the same loco, and took a look at it, and it does look to be a real awkward situation.

 

If it were me, I would approach it as a "fiddle" situation, at best, and turn the drivers back and forth (remove boiler - usually pretty easy - and turn the flywheel as needed) until you get the screw head under a "chink in the armor" and worry it out. Best guess; haven't ever replaced mine.

 

BTW - and this is the voice of experience - traction tires are not necessarily need for normal loco performance. When one of mine bites the dust, I don't always replace it (I might skip this one!). Case by case. Note that as time has gone by most 3-rail steamers have stopped coming with more than 2 tires - no more are needed, and are usually put in the easy spots.

 

Also, why do you want to change them? Never heard of traction tire "preventive maintenance".

 

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Just read RoyBoy's response. Yes. Do that. Easier than my suggestion. Sometimes clarity is elusive...

I've the same problem and looking at it, it's a mess to do.  I'll try RoyBoy's approach.  Like to find some NEW tires so I'm not replacing them all with old OLD products which are already ready to stretch and become worthless.

I did a Super-Chuffer upgrade on one of these, I told the owner NOT to bring it back when it needed traction tires!  It looks like a PITA to change them.

 

Would turning the motor help position the screw  to a better position?

As I recall when I was working on it, you have to take a lot of hardware off to get access to the traction tires.  The screw never comes uncovered enough to get it out.

 

I have this same engine.  Remove screws from the three front drivers holding the connecting rod (I think that is the right term).  With these screws out, the rod flops around enough that the traction tire can be fed on to the rod while still attached to the drive wheel. The help of jewelers screw driver makes guiding the tire around the wheel easier.

Mike

Thanks to all who responded......and thank you "Hump Yard Mike".  I took a look at what you are suggesting, and looks like that may be the best solution.  Next week, when I have some time, I will give it a try!  Thanks again.

Again I would like to say thank you to all who responded and especially to "Hump Yard Mike".  Your instructions were right on target.  I will add a couple of things which I found after doing the first one that made the job easier:

 

1.  Take a picture so the rods go back as before!

2.  Use the inside rod to hold the new tire in place while pulling the tire over the wheel.

3.  I used two small screw drivers and what I think is a dental tool.  (Kind of pointy with a bend at the end.  Able to grip the tire, and slide it into place with this)

4  Take off what I believe are simulated brakes.  They are held on with one small Phillips screw, and with them removed, more room.

5  Have extra traction tires available in case one gets damaged in the process.  They are cheap!

 

Level of enjoyment from this project about the same as root canal work.....but it can be done!

Glad you were successful.   The first time I had replaced them, I tore the whole thing apart and my dad ("tplee" on the forum) made the suggestion of not taking the rods off completely to get access.  Well, it worked great and have done it the same way since.

Another bit of advice, never put an old tire back on once it comes off, just put a new one on other wise you will be doing again in the very near future.

Mike

By the way, "Hump yard Mike"......got to see your layout in the current issue of O Gauge Railroading!....WOW!!  I really like what you have done.  Very impressive.

I just looked and it is super. The title "Just Big Enough" makes it easier to find.

Thanks for compliments on the feature.  I was pretty excited about it too!

Mike