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What would it take to convert a SD35 with scale wheels (20-20022-2) to a high rail configuration?

Would the available axle conversion kits work with this engine? (20-89008). This kit is a four axle kit, so I figure I would need two kits.

The issue of a blind wheel set on each truck is another consideration…

Tom

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@Krieglok posted:

What would it take to convert a SD35 with scale wheels (20-20022-2) to a high rail configuration?

Would the available axle conversion kits work with this engine? (20-89008). This kit is a four axle kit, so I figure I would need two kits.

The issue of a blind wheel set on each truck is another consideration…

Another "consideration" would be the fixed pilots, i.e. non-swinging pilots and no lobster claw couplers. Hope you have big curves.

Tom

one MTH wheel "kit" does an engine. 4 axle or 6 axles in each kit. A SD35 uses six axles so buy the six axle kit!

You will have a three rail capable engine that has fixed pilots so it won't do well hauling long cars on very tight 3 rail curves.

Maybe before you do anything, install the three rail roller pickups, flip the switch for 3 rail use, and try it on your RR. Some types of track will work with the scale wheels.

Last edited by Engineer-Joe

Great advice by Engineer-Joe!  Once you determine the locomotive will successfully operate on your layout’s curves, the conversion itself is pretty straightforward once you acquire the 6-axle high-rail conversion kit.  However, finding the kit can be a challenge.  It seems that MTH does small production runs every few years, and then they sell out very quickly…so my advice is to grab them whenever you can find them!  

I’m hoping AtlasO contracts with MTH to produce some of the high-rail conversion kits now that they’re selling some former MTH Premier 3/2 convertible locomotives in 2-rail with fixed pilots!  @Atlas O @MTH

Last edited by CNJ #1601
@Krieglok posted:

What would it take to convert a SD35 with scale wheels (20-20022-2) to a high rail configuration?

Would the available axle conversion kits work with this engine? (20-89008). This kit is a four axle kit, so I figure I would need two kits.

The issue of a blind wheel set on each truck is another consideration…

Tom

I've been running MTH Scale-wheel diesels on three rail track since 2009 with generally good results. The big thing to remember is that you need good track work (Atlas, Gargraves, or Ross) and O-72 or larger curves to make things work. Don't use Fastrack or tubular as the rail head is round. Consistent track work without kinks and dips is paramount, especially for six axle diesels. My engines found the bad spots for us at Angels Gate and we fixed them.

Curve-replacement switches will be problematic because the curve extends through the frog, though I've moved engines through Ross O-72 switches at low speed. Unmodified Atlas switches have issues due to the guard rails being too low (a relatively easy fix, but you have to remove the switch to make the modifications). Ross switches work well.

Instead of trying to modify the pilots on engines, make pairs of transition cars with a Kadee on one end and a hi-rail coupler on the other. I have a few pairs and they're not readily noticeable in a running train.

If you are using tubular track, the hi-rail replacement wheels are your only option. You'd need the six axle pack in your case. I have a couple of new six axle hi-rail engines with the swappable axles Im planning to convert if you want to trade axles, but I don't think you need to deal with the hassle.

Hope this helps.

Last edited by AGHRMatt

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