Pilot trucks on brass K-Series Locomotives

[dcarrell8]

I've recently upgraded a Fuji K-36 and a Westside models K-37 both with DCC and sound.  Both Locos run really well. 

My only issue is how light the pilot trucks are, they seem to want to bounce a little too much especially if I'm running at "road" speed over a turnout.  Has anyone come up with a solution to add weight?  Or, is it possible that both these locos are missing springs that should provide a little downward pressure to the track?

[Mike C]

   If I remember right the K37 has a spring  , it"s a real PITA to put that truck truck on .

[Hawghead]

I know the pilot trucks of many of the brass steam locomotives I've had over the years have had springs.  I don't know if your K-37s were equipped with them however.  One clue might be if the screw holding the pilot truck is shouldered.  If so it probably meant to have a small light spring between the pilot truck tang and the frame of the locomotive.

Scott

[Mike C]

  One other thing on the Westside K 37 . It comes with a brass idler gear that will wear out faster . NWSL makes a # 305 Delrin gear that is a direct fit and also makes the loco a bit more quiet .....Mike

[dcarrell8]

Thanks for the input gentlemen. 

The Westside K-37 does appear to have what's left of a spring.  I had to look pretty close to see it and it's certainly not doing anything.  This particular model has had the motor replaced and the Delrin gear installed.  TCS WOW sound and a firebox flicker.

The Fuji K-36 has a spring as well, it's just so far back on the frame of the truck that it doesn't seem to be doing a very good job.  I wonder if they make a stiffer spring??

I guess I need to do some research on springs.