"Rules of thumb" for N scale. . .

[pcarrell]

Most of the newer loco's are NMRA RP25 compliant, which means they have a low profile flange already on them and they should be fine with even Atlas code 55 (the pickiest of the bunch).  If you get one that's not OK, talk to the folks at Northwest Short Line ( http://www.nwsl.com/ ).  They'll probably be able to fix you right up!

[Vail and Southwestern RR]

As far as locomotives go, I haven't heard of any trouble with any newer locos and code 55.  I have not had any trouble with Atlas, Intermountain, of Microtrains (with the low profile wheels that come with them installed) either.  I have some older train set Bachmann and also Model Power cars that definitely have issues.  So, I'd have to ask, what engines are you noticing with too-large flanges?  I do have a old Minitrix that sounds like it is hopping down the road on code 55!

[brothaslide]

I am transitioning to N scale from HO. 

Over the years, I have learned some basic "rules of thumb" for modeling in HO - what works well and looks prototypical.  For example, when I purchase a new freight car I install Kadee couplers (#128), Proto 2000 metal wheel sets, add weight as needed, and apply some simple weathering.

In N scale, most of the couplers are truck mounted and the wheels are plastic and have large flanges.  I also noticed that many of the engines have large flanges.  I know you can purchase small flanged wheels for freight and passenger car wheels but what about the engines?  Will these engines with larger flanges work on code 55 rail?

Any input would be appreciated.