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The Antioch Model Railroad Club follows the National Model Railroad Associations National Standards for HO Scale/Gauge as follows:
CAR WEIGHTS
NMRA
weight = 1 oz. + 0.5oz/inch of car length. This
is close to:
35 ft. car = 3.4 oz.
40 ft. car = 3.8 oz.
50 ft. car = 4.5 oz.
55 ft. car = 4.8 oz.
60 ft. car = 5.2 oz.
70 ft. car = 5.8 oz.
82/89 ft car = 7 oz.
Weights
should be secured to the inside of the car body (preferably) or glued
to the bottom (out of sight) or part
of the load. Tank & flat cars are a
challenge and difficult to retrofit
as are pre-assembled
models. But
it can be done. If
you need help, just ask
FREIGHT
CAR WHEELS AND TRUCKS
Axles maybe metal or plastic but must be insulated.
Check that the wheels are in gauge,
don’t expect that they are.
Check that the wheels are CLEAN,
don’t track dirt around the layout.
Check that wheels don’t wobble (because some plastic axles bow)
Check that wheels roll freely in truck side frames and won’t fall out.
Check that the trucks rotate freely on the bolster.
Tighten the
truck at one end of the car more tightly than the other to resist rocking side
to side for better tracking.
COUPLERS
Kadee
(or metal copies) knuckle couplers are standard for all cars interchanged or
left on the layout for use.
Plastic
couplers pull apart and should be restricted
to private consists (or cabooses)
that do not switch (if the coupler cannot be changed.
Check
the coupler height with a Kadee Gage! Shim bolster if required.
Check the trip pin height with a Kadee Gage—adjust if required.
Check side to side centering spring action so cars will couple.
Check the knuckle spring—these do pop out and require replacement.
Burnish the knuckle face and interior for smooth operation.
Painted couplers are discouraged, check the knuckle spring after painting.
Your Member Number should be placed on the bottom of the car for ease of identification should a problem or damage arise from operations on the Club layout.
The club has a standards test track where you can test your coupler height, weight and wheel gauge, please feel free to use it.