Jack00's Blog

Very nice simple conversion.

 

Beware of re-gauging the wheels. Some of the OO wheelsets can be a bit course and it may be worth considering buying some new EM wheel sets as they can be narrower and have a shallower flange.

The only way to find out is to run the model on an EM layout.

Tip: If you don't have access to one go to Model Railway show where there is one and ask if it can be run. (I have done this with some of my models and as a group we do this at shows...normally at the end of the show or at least when it has gone quiet)

 

Another thing to consider is inserting brass bearings for the axles. With moulded underframes it is a curse to get a drill into the hole to open it up. As you got the axle boxes off your task is so much easier. The advantage of doing this is smoother running. Plus we have found that the moulded frames wear alarmingly during use and this leads to poor running.

 

Anyway well done. Let us know what layout you have run it on and post a picture. What is the next conversion going to be?

Hi thanks for the tip. I have some bearings from parkside Dundas and did wonder if it would wear less if I added them. Im going to start an EM layout soon, just a small shunting layout. Then I can test RTR wheels compared to, say: Romford or similar.

Using the same technique, I have done another OBA and a VGA van.

 

Class 66 will be next too, but using Ultrascale conversion pack.

 

Jack

Ive standardised on Romford 3 hole wheels for all my wagons now,all pre 1970s wagons.Get them with Parkside kits anyway, pulled out with 2 pairs of pliers, then clean up the plastic bush with a scalpel if any is slightly showing as itll rub on the back of the axlebox area.

all my Bachmann 16t minerals have them, havent bothered with bearings on then.

Id recommend these than the Bachmann rtr ones, not expensive either. dont like any other make, these are nice and tight and are not likely to move on the axle which some others do.

also make sure when using the brass back to back gauge the wheels are not tight in the gauge, a very tiny bit of play.

Thats very useful information, thanks Michael. Before I did the first wagon I looked at different methods and even looked at "EMgauge 70's" site which has unlimited amounts of inspiration. Not sure if your familiar with the site? But some lovely stuff on there. The parkside kits are great I did a Grampus in 16.5mm and it went together a treat.

 

Cheers

yeah its an excellent site, regularly look in.

Also if regauging existing axles make sure new B-B are around centre of axle and not off set