2-10-2 question?

[RGW]

I really love my DM&IR 2-10-2 .Runs smooth,looks great ,but the traction is lower than what other Bachann 2-10-2s. I seen to remember on some forums that other had  added a thin piece of tape under the bearing blocks to lower the wheels with TTs.

I could not find any info by googling this.does anybody remember  the details?      

Side note:I file off the trailing truck detail and added delta side frames to match the DM&IR prototype.

[spookshow]

An occasional problem with Bachmann steam engines is that the driver bearing blocks wind up with excessive freeplay due to the frame cut-outs (wherein the driver bearing blocks seat) being cut inaccurately at the factory. If you eyeball the drivers as the engine rolls along and can see the TT-equipped driverset moving around excessively (up and down and/or side to side), then it's the cutouts that are the problem ('cuz if the traction tires aren't in firm/constant contact with the rails, pulling power is going to be greatly reduced).

A relatively simple way to fix the problem is to remove the plastic bottomplate and lift out the TT driverset. Then apply a thin strip of electrical tape to the edges of the cutout. This will serve to shim the bearing blocks and keep the drivers from moving around too much.

Cheers,
-Mark

[RGW]

Thanks you.  I sorta thought you would be the one to have this information. I will check for driver wobble.
Are the TT drivers  connected to the side rods. It would be convenient if there are not. Guess i will find out.

[spookshow]

Thanks you.  I sorta thought you would be the one to have this information. I will check for driver wobble.
Are the TT drivers  connected to the side rods. It would be convenient if there are not. Guess i will find out.

You're in luck - they are not. So, all the much easier 

Cheers,
-Mark

[RGW]

Mark, I finally got around to adding electrical tape to the bearing area (only to the rear TT driver) and it seems to pull  better and it had a rhythmic clanking noise that I do not hear any more.
I assume this was the driver oscillating in the frame.

Thanks for the Info      Bob

[James in FL]

The tape shim trick works great to tighten up sloppy tolerances.
FWIW the scotch tape I use is .002 and the electrical tape I have is .007.

What's the thickness of what you're using on that 2-10-2?

[RGW]

I do not know the thickness just some cheap electrical tape. I can check the roll,maybe it is listed.