Introduction

Bachmann 43xx with lead weight and Kaydees coupling

I'm in the process of upgrading some RTR locos and also building kits to achieve the models I want. If I can find a proprietary model that can be altered or adapted to give a reasonable representation of what I want, then that's the way I go. I'm getting too old and too short on cash to be true to scale accuracy these days, and the hobby should be enjoyable anyway.

Adding lead to pony trucks

Close up of modified 43xx pony truck showing lead weight

Some offerings from the RTR manufacturers have problems with the pony trucks in terms of weight, balance and sideplay - leading to derailments on points and curves. Here the problem is solved on a Bachmann 43xx by shaping some folded lead sheet and gluing it to the top of the pony truck. It is important to leave enough clearance for the truck to rise slightly with any changes in track levels.

Replacing pony trucks

Two Comet pony trucks

Another option is to fit new pony trucks altogether. This photo shows a couple of pony trucks built from Comet Models [website] etched brass kits, and they behave faultlessly. They were made for a kit-built 72xx loco, the left being the trailing one and the right being the leading one. The trucks were made in different lengths to suit, and should also be suitable for fitting to RTR locos.