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RailKing PA AA Diesel Engine
Cleaning the Wheels, Tires and Track
Periodically check the locomotive wheels and pickups for dirt and buildup,
which can cause poor electrical contact and traction and prematurely wear out
the neoprene traction tires. Wheels and tires can be cleaned using denatured
(not rubbing) alcohol applied with a cotton swab.
Occasional cleaning of the track will also help to ensure good electrical
contact and to prolong the life of your engine’s tires. To clean the track, use a
clean rag and denatured alcohol (not rubbing alcohol). Unplug the transformer
and wipe the rails of the track, turning the rag frequently to ensure that you are
using clean cloth on the rails.
Traction Tire Replacement Instructions
Your locomotive is equipped with two neoprene rubber traction tires on the
rear set of flanged drivers. While these tires are extremely durable, you may
need to replace them at some point.
1. Remove the truck sides from the truck block in order to slip the new tire
over the grooved drive wheel. To do this, remove the screws as shown in Fig.
4.
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 tire is 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. Reassemble the truck sides to the truck blocks.
Replacement Tires are available directly from the M.T.H. Parts Department.
Screws for truckside removal
Figure 4. Screws to Remove to Access
the Traction Tires
