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Periodically check the locomotive wheels and pickups
for dirt and buildup, which can cause poor electrical
contact and traction as well as prematurely wear out the
neoprene traction tires.
Wheels and tires can be cleaned using denatured (not
rubbing) alcohol applied with a cotton swab.
Tire Traction Replacement Instructions
Your Locomotive is equipped with 6 neoprene rubber traction tires. Two traction tires
are on the rear wheel sets of the front engine trucks and two traction tires are on the
front wheel set of the tender truck. While these tires are extremely durable, you may
need to replace them at some point.
1. Remove the Truck Sideframes. This will allow the wheel sets to be lifted out of the
truck. The screws can be accessed from the bottom of the trucks.
2. Make sure the old tire has been completely removed from the groove in the drive
wheel, using a razor blade or small flathead screwdriver to pry away any remains.
3. Slip the new tire onto the wheel. You may find it useful to use two small flathead
screwdrivers to stretch the tire over the wheel.
4. If you twist the tire while stretching it over the wheel, you will need to remove and
reinstall the tire. Otherwise your engine will wobble while operating.
5. Make sure the tires are fully seated inside the groove. Use a razor blade to trim away
any excess tire that doesn’t seat itself inside the groove properly.
6. Replace the wheel sets in the truck and re-install the truck side frames. When re-
installing the truck sideframes make sure the telescopic drive lives are re-connected.
One set of replacement tires is packaged with your model. Additional sets are
available directly from the M.T.H. Parts Department (phone: 410-381-2580;
e-mail: [email protected]; mail: 7020 Columbia Gateway Drive,
Columbia MD 21046-1532).
Cleaning the Wheels, Tires and Track
Premier Shay Steam Locomotive
