remove a rubber grip

[Fleischmann]

  I have been given a Rivarossi engine (2-8-2) that has one rubber traction grip around one of the 8 drivers, but the grip is bulging a little and thus the train has a little wobble.  If I remove the grip ( and there is only one), would that effect the way the engine pulls cars or am I better off trying to adjust the rubber grip, shave off the bulge, etc.?  I think I would prefer to remove the grip, but I await your advices first!

 Thank you. 

  Tom
 

[jimhaleyscomet]

Is this an HO or N engine?  If so, you might get more help from the Model Railroader forum on this site.  Most of the guys here are O or G railroaders so we might be less help.

But yes, without the traction tire your engine will not pull as well. 

Jim H 

[Fleischmann]

  Thanks for your input Jim.  It is an HO gauge engine.  I will repost.

  Tom