I know we have all been traction tired to death, but I have one more quick question, sorry. When replacing traction tires, does removing the screw that holds the siderod make that screw more likely to loosen during operation. I have Atlas track and I notice on my MTH locos, especially steam, I throw traction tires fairly often. I have never used Loctite. Is that too extreme and will it be really hard to remove that screw if necessary down the road?
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Gerry,
I use Loctite 242 REMOVEABLE threadlocker (blue chemical) on screws that might work loose in operation. It will hold a screw snug but allow you to remove it with a screwdriver or side rod screw socket wrench. Do not use a permament threadlocker or retaining compound made by Loctite for this application.
Joe Foehrkolb
My wish is that I could acquire wheel sets without the traction tire groove. Especially, in the "3RS" world of things.
rrjjf,
Just the info I was looking for. Will buy some.
thank you.
Gerry,
It is possible to remove the grooved tires and have a machinist make new solid tires for a three rail locomotive. I machined one a few years ago for a friend who owns a hobby shop and had a customer who was frustrated with having to replace traction tires. It is not something I really want to get into. I spend most of my shop time 2 railing 3 rail locos.
Joe
You can also just dab some clear fingernail polish on the screw before installing it.
Same trick works on eyeglass screws. The screws easily back out when needed, but otherwise stay tight when you want them tight.
Greg (Now I wonder....would it work for traction tires instead of crazy glue??!! Someone try it and tell us.)
Bull Frog Snot!!
...keep the rails polished...
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