Trains.com

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!

Scale HO wheels, Pros & Cons

22535 views
31 replies
1 rating 2 rating 3 rating 4 rating 5 rating
  • Member since
    February 2005
  • From: Southwest US
  • 12,914 posts
Posted by tomikawaTT on Sunday, July 11, 2010 8:25 PM

If by, "Scale wheels," you mean Proto-87 wheelsets, be aware that they are a LOT more sensitive to minor tracklaying irregularities (and commercial specialwork compromises) than RP-25 wheelsets.  Also, if your track is built 'Proto-87 friendly' it may not be so friendly to RP25 wheels.  As for cost, if you're converting from plastic or pizza cutters to quality metal wheelsets there may not be much difference.  OTOH, if you have no reason to convert other than to get the (admittedly) better appearance...

Will it be worthwhile to convert?  The only person who can answer that question for you is the one who ties your shoelaces.

Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)

  • Member since
    May 2008
  • 4,612 posts
Posted by Hamltnblue on Sunday, July 11, 2010 7:45 PM

Define Scale vs Commercial Wheelsets.

If you mean tread thickness, I've read that there could be issues with scale treads with some turnouts.

Springfield PA

  • Member since
    May 2014
  • 372 posts
Scale HO wheels, Pros & Cons
Posted by Big Boy Forever on Sunday, July 11, 2010 7:42 PM

This has probably been discussed before, but does anyone know, what the pros & cons, ins & outs of scale HO wheels versus commercial HO wheels are, including price?

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!

Users Online

There are no community member online

Search the Community

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Model Railroader Newsletter See all
Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!