QUOTE (double00 @ 14 Dec 2006, 04:22)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>I have several locomotives (diesels) fitted with tyres, and find these tyres are a tight fit. Seldom do the tyres require replacement other than when perished by long use.
I am probably wrong, but would guess that probably the wrong size tyres were fitted to the Lima 117.
There is another benefit of fitting Ultrascale wheels to Lima locos, especially the BO BO configurations such as the DMU and HST.
The traction tyres, coupled with vibration from the motor, cause the models to wobble to such an extent that they are constantly loosing power on the pickup wheels on the motor bogie. This is observed with quick build-up of dirt in comparison to other models.
By fitting Ultrascale wheels, the wobble is removed and you get far better pickup as well as reliability and appearance.
Agree that added weight is a good idea.
Graham Plowman