re-powering AHM steam

[Anonymous]

I have an older AHM HO scale 0-8-0, that I would like put a better motor in, with flywheel if possible. Any ideas?

[Anonymous]

If the AHM 0-8-0 is similar to the AHM 0-6-0 with the large Rivarossi motor in the cab, I have successfully replaced this motor with a Mashima round-can motor with fly-wheel. I was able to link this to the standard gear-box with a short pice of
silicon tubing. I made a rear support from plastic sheet and shaped and detailed this to look like the boiler backhead. The front end was bedded on silicon caulking. I was only able to use a very short motor, due to space restrictions, with a 16mm diameter fly-wheel fitted at one end, but it did all fit within the boiler/firebox. I source my
parts from Branchlines in the UK, but NWSL range listed in the Walthers catalogue is very similar.
First stage is to remove the old motor, and 'eye-up' the available space. You may be able to
gauge the space available using a motor from another model, an Athearn diesel maybe? and then purchase an appropiate smaller/larger motor as applicable. I,m afraid it is a bit of a suck-it-and-see process but it can work well. Other locos. I have re-motored like this are IHC [Mehano] USRA Pacifics, and Mikados. Come back on
[e-mail] if you need more help!
Regards, Dave Elbourne, Rugby, England.UK.

[Anonymous]

Thanks, Dave. The 0-8-0 has its motor in the firebox area, and is mounted verticaly. That is what has me scratching my head. I've never seen a set-up quite like this before. There is not much extra space to play with. Thank you for your input though.
Todd C.

[Anonymous]

Todd,
Sorry for the mis-information, sounds like a major cut-and-shut job on the chassis is required.
I can only suggest a replacement motor/gearbox/flywheel in one unit, and be prepared to change the axle-mounted drive gear. If
you are into this level, you have to work out if it's worth it to you. Might be easier/cheaper and less trouble to shoehorn a different mechanism from a swapmeet junker into the loco. body or trade it in, if it's in good condition,
Good luck, and let me know how you get on,
Regards, Dave.

[Krokodil]

Hi Todd, this model is from the very old Rivarossi line. Vertical motor with worm on the shaft driving the axle.
This is very difficult to replace (special diameter of the worm etc.)

I would also suggest to repower completely the engine from NWSL or Walthers sources.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for all the input, fella's. Sounds like a real hassle, and since I don't model the Indiana Harbor Belt (the only prototypical road for this model), I suppose it will be a candidate for the next swap meet. It runs, but that's about all I can say for it. I bought it new back in the 1970's for about $20.00, (NEW)! I can't believe what they are getting for them now. Heck, back then that's what you would pay for BRASS!
Thanks again,
Todd C.

[Anonymous]

Check the NWSL catalog or Walthers catalog. There is a special kit for regearing and slowing down the AHM 0-8-0 with vertical motor.
I have one of this locos and ask advice to NWSL years before. They suggested this kit.
Good luck.