Large Scale Central

Help With Rail Bender

General Discussion
#1

I was inspecting and cleaning my Aristo rail bender last night getting ready to install the track on the inner loop on the railroad. I noticed that the center wheel that is machined to rest against the side profile of the rail was loose and moved up and down on the bearing. The other wheel that is machined like this one was solid on the bearing.

My question, is this machined piece pressed onto the bearing or is it free floating. I can stop the movement by placing a .050 washer under the bearing and machined sleeve but how was it made. I’ve had this bender for along time and it has years of use from my layout and others in our club.

Chuck

#2

I don’t have the Aristo bender, I have the train Li, But from your description it sounds like the race to the roller bearing is shot, or the screw/bolt is worn out. Most likely the profiled piece is pressed onto the bearing. The local bearing shop could come up with a new one, or try McMaster-Carr http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-ball-and-roller-bearings/=xiq8ln

Adding the washer might fix the wobble, but will definitely also add drag.

#3

Sorry to derail a bit, but Dave, I’ve been trying to reach you by email… can you email me at [email protected] please?

(throwbars)

Greg