Removed the traction tires from all my motive power this week. I'm having realistic fun with wheel slip. This 30 car train needed 3 Legacy Dash 9's to travel the layout. I needed to turn off speed control. Which I prefer. Now, running the trains is paying attention to needed speed. Vs. the set it and forget when running with cruise. The motors are also running less stressed and cooler without the traction tires. Plus less black rubber residue to clean off the tracks.
Mike,
Traction tires are the work of the Devil! Years ago, I tried simply removing the tires and had problem at switches. Now, I replace the traction tire wheel & axle sets, whenever possible. Having railroaded 1:1 for almost 40 years, I can assure the multitude that wheel slip is "prototype" and if you can't move a train with the power assigned then add more engines.
The only Lionel that I've been able to improve is my ALCo S-2, all others appear to have wheels that are pressed on in the truck casting. MTH is more flexible in that their Premier line diesels often have provision for replacement with tireless hi-rail sets.
I've bought my first Atlas O, an RS-3, and it appears as though wheel & axle sets are replaceable. However, I am unable to determine the replacement part number because only their RS-1 has a parts diagram available on their website. Since I haven't had any luck communicating by email, I guess I'll just have to order the parts and hope.
It would be very nice if all three manufacturers made provision for wheel & axle set replacement and offered the parts to do it. I am pleased to see that Mr. Muffin now has MTH sets in stock, again. However, you have to buy two tired W&A sets in order to get two tire-less sets. I have a pile of tired sets sitting in the shop for anyone who wants them.