I need to know what the sizes of the TT used by Bachmann on their 4-6-0, 2-8-0, and J3 4-8-4s. I notice that there are new ones (6mm) and "old" ones (5mm) mentioned on their parts site. Are there only 2 sizes? Help!:uhoh:
Stewart makes traction tires that fit the Bachmann locos. I lost the number but it was either 1513 or 1519. I've got to order some for myself
They changed names to "Calumet Trains". If you web search for Calumet Trains Super Traction Tires, you will find them. I have used these, but my experience is that they are not nearly as good as the thin, flat, square-cut black tires sold by Bachmann and Kato as spare parts. They are vinyl, not rubber. You have to carefully stretch them out to get them on a wheel without breaking them, and they are never as grippy or wobble-free as the Bachmann or Kato tires. On the Bachmann site, if you search by engine, they list 811XX-00R19 for the 2-8-0, and they are currently sold out. The 4-6-0 doesn't have tires listed. The 4-8-4 also does not have one listed. As for their general-purpose N Scale parts, for $0.25 each, honestly, I'd buy some of each of the 5mm and 6mm size, and see what fits best. Those are roughly a scale 32" and 37", respectively, so I doubt either will fit the Northern's big drivers. They should work on the 2-8-0 and 4-6-0. For the Northern, I would try Kato GS-4 tires. I only use those Stewart/Calumet things as a last resort.
Thank you for the evaluation of current options and sources. Lots I don't know about N although I've been piddling with it for 10+ years. I'm currently hunting a MIA tire on the layout and see a need to keep some on hand. Shame the Kato's won't work for the 4-8-4 since I've got plenty.
Kato Mikado traction tires work great on the 4-6-0 and I bet they will work on the 4-8-4. The Calumet tires are cut pieces of vinyl tube - kind of thick, hard to stretch, and I've never had much luck with them. Have fun, Mark
Every one has their own reasons for what they do or use for replacements, however I replace the traction tires on my locos with BFS (Bull Frog Snot) it gives better traction than the replacement tires and disassembly of the loco is not required to put it on.
This is an update to my questions/problems. Neither Kato nor Bachmann have traction tires available now for the J class 4-8-4, and seemed quite surprised to be asked. Bachmann was able to suggest a rather pricey solution of purchasing the entire driver assembly @ $20.00 but no individual drivers or tires are cataloged. Well, hmmmmm. Decided to remove the tireless driver from the loco and EUREKA - found the missing tire tightly wound around the axel, it had spit one out on the ROW. All is well that ends well. In the meantime, keep an eye out for TT sales. Boilerman, thank for the BFS suggestion. The guy who started marketing it sent me a sample bottle when he first announced it on the Atlas Board. I have used it with varying results but find itworks best for me on locos without tightly fitting brake hangers and such. More practice might be the cure.
I would not use the replacement Bachmann traction tires because they are no better than the original. I have three 2-8-0's a 4-6-0 and a 2-6-0 and the traction tires came off the 2-8-0's and the 4-6-0 within three hours of operating time on each. They are stretched out and will not stay on. Some other members have used the Stewart tires and haven't had to replace them yet. If you can't get replacement tires from Bachmann, then I would use something else.
