N Scale North American Locomotives

Step 1: Tools and Preparation

You will need a pair of needlenose tweezers and a small (smallest possible) flat head jewelers screwdriver. To make the connection and disconnection of the siderods easier, also try to be sure that the siderods are in the "down" position (as shown in the accompanying photographs). DO NOT force the wheels to adjust them, apply power to the engine to get the rods into the appropriate location.

Step 2: Disconnecting the siderods

Carefully pry the locking pin out of the third (traction) driver with your screwdriver by placing it between the rods and wheel and gently wiggling the rods outward. Take special care not to lose the locking pin (do not perform this procedure over carpet, if at all possible) and set it aside in a safe and secure place.

Step 3: Siderods disconnected and tire ready

Both the traction tire and the rod-pin removed and awaiting installation.

Step 4: Placing the tire (Part 1)

Place the tire on the third driver.

Step 5: Placing the tire (Part 2)

Carefully push the edge of the tire down around the rear rim of the driver wheel, between the rim of the wheel and the brake pad, and hold it there with your finger.

Step 6: Looping the tire onto the driver

Using the edge of the screwdriver and holding down the tire with your finger, wrap the tire around the rim of the wheel with the screwdriver.

Step 7: Re-setting the Siderods (Part 1)

Begin by placing the rear siderod onto the driver (as shown) and lining up the pinholes.

Step 8: Re-setting the Siderods (Part 2)

Carefully set the pin into the other siderod and line the assembly up over the pinhole on the driver, taking care not to knock the pin loose.

Step 9: Re-setting the Siderods (Part 3)

Using the tweezers, press the pin down into the driver through the holes in the side rods, "pinning" them into place. At this point the side rods and traction tires should be secure on the driver. If necessary, this process can be performed on either side of the locomotive.