I see I can buy some wheel sets off the bay. I could get them and drill out the axles for my own project but before I do, where else can a guy get wheels only? Preferably wheels for an 1/8" axle but I'm handy with a drill. I'm looking for solid wheels, ideally. I'm open to making modifications if necessary. I'm just trying to save myself some extra steps.
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If you can figure out how, try some English kit/parts suppliers. The Brits still kit build a lot of locos and stuff, so they may have bigger variety of wheels or wheelsets.
In the USA, Northwest Shortline, NWSL, used have quite a variety also. Not sure whether they still do. The company changed hands a few years back.
I will look into what they have across the pond but Northwest Shortline appears to have the variety I'm looking for. Plus they have gears (which I also need). Thank you very much!
Jay C has a pile of unmounted wheels - .145 tread, so too skinny for me. NWSL was my source for years.
Don't know what you're planning to build, but I do know you're building an O gauge empire. My only advice is to pay attention to what wheels will run on the track you plan to lay. There can be a big difference between O scale (including Proto-48) wheel designs and O gauge wheel designs, but the differences may not impact what you are building. I've also heard it said that each design will run on the other's track (for the most part) with the major exception being wheels going through switches.
Just a word of caution.
Chuck
@BillYo414 posted:I see I can buy some wheel sets off the bay. I could get them and drill out the axles......
I've yet to run across any wheelsets where the wheels could not be removed from the axles w/o drilling anything. Most pop off with a good sharp tap on the end of the axle from a mallet.
This is for wheels for a crane. Proto48 wheels will be for the idler wheels (non powered) but I'll be using those tall flange unrealistic wheels for the driven wheels. I want to make sure I'm not having to crawl over the layout and repair scenery because my crane falls off the rails. The powered wheels will be somewhat hidden so I'm not concerned as much with their appearance.
It looks like NWSL or the bat will be my source with some disassembly required. Thanks guys!