Unpacking 3 Truck Shay, Third Truck

[KD0R]

  Just unpacked our 3 Truck Shay.  This is the second one we've received, the first was damaged and returned.  I went straight to the video to follow along with the lubrication instructions.  During this time I noted that there is no freedom of movement in the truck under the water tender.  It appears that it's supposed to rotate like most trucks, yet it has only about 5 degrees of movement.  Did I miss something that needs to be removed?  I've not seen any unpacking instructions that indicate something still needs to be removed.

  Thanks,
David

[JerryB]

The third truck on both prototype and model Shays is firmly fastened to the tank frame. That is the way three truck Shays are designed. DO NOT try to move it independent of the frame / tank assembly. Doing so can damage the locomotive. The third truck does not move independent of the tank frame & tank.

The drawbar between the end of the rigid locomotive frame and the third truck / frame / tank assembly provides the necessary freedom of movement. The drive shaft has two universal joints and a slip joint to allow this movement while providing drive power.

Write again if any of this is unclear.

Happy RRing with your new Shay,

Jerry

[KD0R]

Jerry

  Thanks!
  Thinking about the geometry overnight I'd decided that must be the case.  Glad you were able to confirm my thoughts before I started doing a run-in today.

David