Quick question on the MDC HuskyStack container cars: Does anyone know what size screw fits the bolster pin hole of the MDC Husky Stack container cars?? I'd like to swap bolster pins, with screws. Figure I could always hand drill out for 2-56, but if something smaller fits, without the need to drill, that's even better! Thanks.
Not what you're asking but, years ago, I found out the hard way that the standard MT bolster pins don't quite fit on those cars and I ended up splitting all the bolster pin receptacles on 12 of those cars before I realized what had happened. I later found out that MT made a special (smaller) bolster pin just for these cars.
I don't know about the husky stacks but I replaced all of the pins on my MDC hoppers with 2-56 screws. Those cars had a metal underframe and required drilling and tapping. I used the MT drill and tap set.
Have the modified bolster pins. Have had a few minor issues with them, especially sine I placed a spacer in, to get the coupler to clear! Was hoping to mount the trucks with screws. I can drill out the bolster if I have to, but would rather not, if possible! Might have to check HobbyTown tomorrow, to see what's available. Then probably order what I need, in bulk!
A good place to order screws is www.microfasteners.com. Get the black oxide 2-56 x 3/16 Phillips flathead screws: FMPPK0203 - 2-56 x 3/16 - Flat Head Machine Screws - Phillips - Black ox - Micro Fasteners Box of 100 is $5.30 + shipping. That will do fifty cars. I have converted all of my rolling stock to these screws and have never regretted it. Here's a tip. Magnetize a small Phillips screwdriver to hold the screw onto the screwdriver. I use those small magnets that are sold on Ebay placing about four on the shaft of the screwdriver. Never dropped a screw when inserting. No need to use a tap on plastic bolster. Screw will self tap. Use a tap on metal one.
I think I will order some of these since I have some cars that constantly drop pins, Thanks for the link.
Will these screws work on Alan Curtis/N Scale Kits metal cars? These are my only cars where bolster pins will sometimes fall out, especially when the weather starts to get colder. Also, shouldn't the screw be a panhead style?
I use the flathead as the underside is beveled allowing the truck to self center. The hole in the MT truck is larger than the screw. I have never used a panhead screw.
Have at it: MSPPK0203 - 2-56 x 3/16 - Pan Head Machine Screws - Phillips - Steel with Black Oxide Plating - Micro Fasteners
I use them on MDC hopper kits with metal frames. You will need to tap a hole. Get a 2-56 tap from Ebay or any number of other suppliers.
After some play time I think the tapered head would help center the part. Thanks for the link. Other wise we had a quit Halloween here. So far. Rich
