Hoping that a Flyer prewar expert can weigh in...
I have a 4687 locomotive on which the pilot wheels don't turn freely. The loco has had some work done on it, so I don't know if the wheels and axles are original. I have several questions that I'm hoping an expert can weigh in on.
1) Although the wheels appear to be in gauge, I'm wondering if they are too tight and are rubbing against the piece that holds the axles in place. If that's the case, what is the best way to get a wheel puller on them, since the side frames are in the way and the U-channel is riveted in place? (I really want to avoid drilling out the rivets.)
2) I measured the axle diameter at 9/64". Perhaps the wheels and axles were replaced with an axle that's just slightly oversize? Is that axle correct for this engine?
3) I checked with several parts dealers at York, including Henning's; most told me that nobody makes these wheels. However, one parts guy said that non-geared wheels from a Flyer O gauge electric loco would work. To me, the O gauge wheels look like they'll work if the axle fits - any comments on this?
4) To make the wheels turn more freely, I've tried the obvious first steps - lubricating the axles and checking to see if the U-channel is bent. They turn a little better, but the binding still puts a lot of strain on the motor. Any ideas on other ways to free things up without pulling the wheels?
Sorry about the length of this post, but trying to provide complete info. Thanks in advance.
