American Flyer wheel puller

[Russ D]

Looks like the insulater on one of my  293 wheels has separated from the wheel.What is best way to remove wheel from engine chassis.I know there is a commericially available tool but any homemade tools or remedies available.A picture or dreawing of a homemade tool would be great.......Thanks........

[lionelsoni]

I don't know what you have under the wheel; but often it works to put a screwdriver tip as close to the axle as possible between the wheel and the structure underneath and then rotate the screwdriver, rather than pry.

The proper use of a wheel puller is to apply a moderate pulling force to the wheel, then tap on the center to drive the axle out, then retighten the puller, and so on.  This might also be a good technique with the screwdriver if you have three hands, one to apply moderate torque to the screwdriver, one to hold a punch on the end of the axle, and one to hit the punch with a hammer.  (I haven't tried this, since I do have a puller.)

[balidas]

Scroll down and read the posts by Nationwidelines. On this page and the next he gives his method on rewheeling AF. Along the way he gives his take on wheel pullers.

http://cs.trains.com/TRCCS/forums/t/116423.aspx?PageIndex=55

[Anonymous]

There is no need to pull a wheel to fix a separated insulator and rim.  Clean the insulator and apply a small amount of superglue, then lift the rim back into place.