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Rubber Traction Tires
Joe is building a new layout that he and his grandson can enjoy and work on together. He has a couple of question I’m sure many of you will be able to help him with. Please contribute your thoughts by using the green Comments and Feedback link below. It is really easy to join in and help others in the process. Here is Joe’s model train question:
“Hi Guys & Gals. I have older HO diesel engines that were stored in my attic. I have started a new layout that my grandson can use. I am planning to use the old engines and rolling stock. I have cleaned & lubricated the old diesels and they are running fine.
I did notice when I cleaned the wheels that the traction tires were dried and brittle and they fell apart. I have two inclines that are quite steep and I think that new traction tires would help on the inclines. Are there different size traction tires for the different brands of engines? I have Bachman, Life like, Model Power and Athern engines. Where can I purchase these tires? How do I install them? I can’t seem to get the wheels off the engine trucks. Are there split tires that can be glued to the brass wheels?
I know I’ve asked a look of questions, but any help would be appreciated. I live in Central New Jersey, USA”
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Your local hobby shop might have replacement traction tires, if not you can order them through the manufacturer.
Yo Joe, What you want is a product called ‘Bull Frog Snot’. Ya, I know…not the most appealing name but this stuff works great. You can order it on Amazon.com or from Blue Ridge Hobbies. The price is a tad steep (in my opinion)at $30.00 or so for a tiny jar but you’ll have enough for a couple hundred locos. I have a Pacific type N scale steam loco (4-6-2)that could only pull about 4 or 5 cars up an incline of 3%. I applied Bull Frog Snot to the drivers and its pulling power jumped up to 15 cars for the same grade. In your case, I would carve out the old tires on your locos and then apply the BFS. The wheels should be turning as you apply the BFS to the wheels so that you get a uniform layer. If you screw up, just cut the BFS out of the tire groove and apply it again. The instructions are much clearer than what I have written here but I think you’ll be happy with the results.