Having run into this of late, here's a question for the Stevie Z's of the world... Generally, would 5 1/2x10 wheelsets be able to be replaced with 6x11's in the case of a 13 3/8 (or roughly) pedestal opening? What about a 15" pedestal? Specifically, an ex NYC baggage coach that NYC decided on 2 different bearing sizes for each end (6x11 under the baggage end)?

From what I've been able to discern by much looking and measuring, as well as discussion with some folks in this field, it appears that the issue is using the correct size journal box for the pedestal opening and making sure that the equalizer seat for the box is properly fitted. Thoughts?

Thanks!
Michael Brown

The GSMR has several six axle heavyweight cars that had 5x9 SKF bearings under them. We have replaced them with 5.5X10 AP wheelsets, slightly modified. The 5.5x10 AP bearings are as big as will fit in the 9.375 inch pedistal openings. An issue to overcome when changing bearing sizes is the center line of the bearings on the axle. 5x9 bearings are on 76 inch center lines. 5.5x10 bearings have a 77 inch centerline. The 5.5x10 wheelsets that I put in the formerly 5x9 equipped trucks have had a half inch cut off each end of the axle. I have cars that were 5x9 and cars that are 5.5x10, so you have to keep a close eye on which axle your trying to put where, as they both have 5.5x10 AP Bearings on them.

I also have an ex Canadian bag that has 6.5x12 AP bearings on 6x11 centers in a 6x11 truck. This is a four axle car with the 13.5 inch pedistals. The 6x11EE boxes also fit the car, but I believe the Canadians chose to use the much cheaper AP bearing instead of the AP EE bearing that AMTRAK uses.

All of these cars have AP bearing boxes that were made for the purpose of using AP bearings in a formerlly non AP application.

What I am trying to say is, keep a close eye on the bearing centerlines when you change bearing sizes. You may be able to use an off the shelf bearing, but you will likley be using a "custom" length axle to get the wheelset to fit the truck, and properly load the bearing.

Hope this helps?!

Ryan

Thanks for the thought, but not much help. Note the thread subject line... I am intimately familiar with the ins and outs of the traditional heavyweight 5x9 centerlines and narrow pedestal openings.

Question here is about lightweight 41 style trucks with either the 13 1/2" or 15" opening. Seems that the truck frame spacing is the same on both 6x11 and 5 1/2x10 equipped trucks. Since this truck style seemed to come equipped standard with both sizes based on individual RR spec, my question relates to whether or not the main difference in this case is the location of the equalizer seat on the top of the box relative to the centerline of the bearing???

Thanks,
Mike

Might try these folks. Other than saved their URL that all I know about the company.



http://www.railwaywheelsrepair.com/index.html

Railway Wheels Repair

Another possible, same declarations as above. Meridian (ABC) might also be another source.

http://www.griffinwheel.com/index.asp

Griffin Wheel