01-08-2009, 08:20 PM
I am converting all my rolling stock and engines to the new #148 Kadee couplers. I never could get the old #5 with the #%#@&**$%# brass spring to work consistently for me. The new 148 with the wire whiskers work great and are easy to install. Just make sure you have a coupler height gauge to make sure they are all at the same height. The 148 is closer to scale in appearance but will work well with the #5 Kadees, McHenry (palstic), and other brands of knuckle coupler.
As for wheels, I use the Intermountain 33" for just about all freight cars. My era is the '60s so that is an appropriate size. Most are the standard with but I have tried several pairs of the .088 tread. They look much better and track as well as the standard size. The drawback is that they are a little pricier and don't come in the bulk pack like the standard size does.
You may want to try buying a few sets of each brand and see which you like best.
Tom
As for wheels, I use the Intermountain 33" for just about all freight cars. My era is the '60s so that is an appropriate size. Most are the standard with but I have tried several pairs of the .088 tread. They look much better and track as well as the standard size. The drawback is that they are a little pricier and don't come in the bulk pack like the standard size does.
You may want to try buying a few sets of each brand and see which you like best.
Tom
Life is simple - Eat, Drink, Play with trains
Occupation: Professional Old Guy (The government pays me to be old.)
Occupation: Professional Old Guy (The government pays me to be old.)