Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
This is not an easy answer but I will give it a shot. First, on this home page, Trains.com across the top, select model trains and click. Scroll down to 'Use the right wheelsets' and this will take you to the April 2002 MR April 2002 wheetset article. Second, there are 28",33",36",38" Third, some wheels are ribbed back, some are smooth. Fourth, there are many model wheelset manufacturers and there are the exceptions to the general rules of thumb. Passenger cars normally require 36", but my Rivarossi heavy weights take 33" Freight cars, some model manufacturers have made mistakes but I would match the stock size with the replacement. Pre WWII used 33" ribbed back wheels. After WWII, cars built generally use smooth back. 70 ton, 100 ton and 125 ton are common weights for trucks. 70 ton, generally 33" 100 ton, probably 36" 125 ton, probably 38" Exception, 40' cement hopper 36", but a 40' granules hopper will use 33" Common uses of 70 ton frames and 33" wheels are boxcars, flatcars, open 40'hoppers, gondolas & cabooses. 50' open hoppers will probably use 36" wheels. Most tank cars and covered hoppers are the proble cars. Auto racks may use 28" for clearence reasons. Tank cars are sized for the density of the cargo. Anhydrous ammonia cars will be, generally 125 ton truck with 38" wheels. If you change into a different size other than the stock size, you also change the coupler height. There are Blunt axle,Flush axle and Pointed axle sets and the acceptance of the truck frame will vary. Athearn cars may vary from roundhouse etc. As a generally rule I have found that modelers prefer Proto 2000 metal sets that come in smooth & ribbed backs and are moderately priced. Metal sets will increase your free rolling ability. Intermountain sets are 100% metal and also come with ball bearings and are the most expensive. Changing couplers styles are a lot easier to figure out than wheel sets. Happy railroading.
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!

Subscriber & Member Login

Edit post

Post Body

Tags (Optional)

Subscriber & Member Login

Users Online

Search the Community