A little background: I have two P2K locos, a GP30 and an RS11. The RS11 is waiting for a paint while the GP30 has been high-hooded (before I saw the announcement of new models last year:sad and is also needing paint. While that stuff is going to be easy for me, I'm wondering if there might be anything I can do to improve the running of these locos. It's been suggested that some new wheels be fitted to the axles for a start (which ones are best?). Anything else I can do while I'm fitting decoders?
Ive been told that Athearn wheels (which drop right in perfectly) are better than the one that come from Life Like. I had to replace a couple wheels on a GP30 due to gear tooth damage and the athearn wheels have worked fine.
Parts to upgrade early P2K diesels The information that I've been using is based on upgrading the early P2K diesels ("brown box"/non-DCC ready): 1) Replace the axle gear(s) from the P2K with ones designed for the Athearn SW series switcher. They are a direct swap. 2) Since you've taken the 1/2 axle wheels off the axle gear, go get some NWSL replacement solid nickel silver wheels. I'm using the HO scale 40" wheels from NWSL. There is enough wheels in a pack to refit both 6 wheel trucks of modern diesels. (Of course, of you've got a 4 wheel truck, there will be spares left over <grin>) 3) Wipe all the factory lube off the gears and re-lube with your favorite hobby grade grease. 4) Re-assemble your loco and enjoy the way it was meant to run! Hope this helps you....it has made my locos run better!:thumbs_up: 3)
Thanks for your replies. What is the best way to scource those parts? Are Athern parts cheap enough to source from a dealer or should I find a junked model? Where can I source NorthWest Short Line wheels from? Anyone you would recommend?
