hey all, id like to get back into o scale again with a mini switching layout. problem is i need some southern pacific alco power. and i really want a rs-11 as its my all time favorite loco but the only option seems to be the 3 rail mth rs-11. can they be 2 railed with relative ease.? thanks for your time and industrialmodels you are my inspiration for o scale.
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Relative ease if they are of the new convertible design. Otherwise, you need NWSL conversion kit and possibly Joe's help pressing them on.
To make things simple at first, I recommend a "tender" made from a freight car. That saves you from making pickups for the insulated wheels. Pickups are easy, but they take some time.
Alcors110,
converting the trucks to two rail and installing wipers should be straightforward, and require no special tools. See this thread:
https://ogrforum.com/d...ent/2415514336986352
Fixing the pilot will also be relatively easy.. just use a styrene shim and paint to match. However extending the handrails down the steps will be a challenge. It can be much easier if you remove the existing handrails, and make new ones from .020" diameter phosphor bronze wire
Really kind Alco....you can build a great switching layout in a 2x10 space. THis is the size of the little addition I put on the layout last year and it always keeps me busy. I used Atlas track so I was forced to use Y switches to maximize space. Email me offline and I will send you some construction pics for inspiration. The key thing is to pack in as much as you can into the space......
Weaver offered 2 rail RS-11's at one time. I haven't seen them on their web site for a while. Makes one wonder if MTH ended up with the molds. Dabay has them occasionally.
Greg
Contact Weaver and see if you can purchase 2 rail alco trucks blocks w/sideframes.
I converted several Lionel C420 using this method.
Also scale truck blocks from MTH U25b would work I think
the 2 rail version of the RS11 made by Weaver is the way to go. I own 2 of these units, they run great and have lots of pulling power. they have moderate detail, but there are plenty of pieces available from P&D to upgrade them. which is what I'm doing right now.
I was told by the Weaver service tech they plan on re-releasing the RS11 , maybe next year. you can also find them online from time to time.
Soo Nut
This is the MTH U25b it looks ok.
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