I'm not sure if anyone has asked this question here before, but is it possible to convert a steam locomotive that rolls on friction bearings to roller bearings? How would this be done? What about the rods and gear? I realize this would be an expensive thing to do, but is it possible, or would the locomotive have to be re-framed?
Brian Hebert

btamper@hotmail.com

Yes it is possible, and it has been done. Greg Dodd converted 1702 to roller bearings on all axles. The journal boxes were modified to accept
the sealed bearings, this did involve pressing off all of the wheel centers and manufacture of new axles. The bearing supplier gave a full warranty on parts and labor for 250,000 miles. So far as rods, it would involve new crank pins, rods, and recalculating the required amount of counter weight.

jasonsobczynski@yahoo.com

1702 has put in a lot of hard miles since her retrofit. If I had massive wheel work to do I would certainly give serious consideration to the retrofit. It solves a lot of potential problems and maintenence issues.

Dave

irondave@bellsouth.net

In retrofitting the 1702, Greg had to choose a bearing size and box that would fit into the frame opening of the 1702. This dictated a smaller axle size and thus the wheel centers had to be modified. I believe a bushing was welded in and then bored to the proper diameter.

Before I reduce the size of an axle, I would do calculations to make sure the necessary diameter could handle the torsional loading. You will certainly get additional torsional rotations on the axle which could lead to further complications.

G. Mark

TVRM Shop Updates by Steve Freer
aw90h@cs.com

Are you guys thinking about doing one Mark? I'd sure like to follow the progress if you do.

Dave

irondave@bellsouth.net