I’m about to buy my first PNG kit (30’ boxcar). I prefer the looks of the Andrews style trucks over the D&RGW trucks (they’re cheaper too).
Phil mentioned they are bigger and may interfere with the under frame. Anyone have any advice?
David,
Couplers: Stick with an Accucraft or KD from Phil. Other KD’s such as 830 body mount would interfere.
Air lines and Brake lines: Off set them at the cylinders and levers and put them up under the frame between the bracing.
Truss rods: bend the inner ones down soon after the queen-posts and adjust them a little by pushing them down to clear the wheel flanges. Also check your curves: The wheels will rub the outside truss rods if your curves are too tight. Bent them down as well.
Then the Andrews truck will work fine. I’ve used them on my builds.
Sometimes you have to do this with the standard Accucraft trucks as well.
Use one thin fender washer between the bolster and the truck and your coupler height will be perfect.
(Using the standard KD height gauge–which I use on all my rolling stock.)
Thanks for the info, John. I may have to come back when the time comes to ask more specific questions!