Reply to "3 Rail Conversion of Sunset Brass"

Originally Posted by Will Ebbert:

Hello all,

I have a 1980(ish) Sunset Models N&W J Class 4-8-4. It is all original (right now) and I need to convert it from 2 rail operation to 3 rail. I have found a company that will install MTH ProtoSound 3 in it, but I was wondering work I need to do to prepare it for that. For the wheels I am using Lionel's parts for their recent rendition of the 611. Obviously I will need to install pickup rollers, but should I also use the Lionel motor or is there a better option? Also, are there any other steps I am missing? Thanks!

Cheapest/hassle free fix is to sell it and buy a 3R version. You'll be money ahead, big time.

If it was a unique locomotive never made in 3R, but only in 2R, I'd pull the trigger. However, there are many beautiful 'J' N&W 3R locomotives available. By the time you deal with the hassle and cost of converting, I'll bet it's close to the cost of a nice used 3R 'J'.

Good luck, let us know how you turn out.

6/16/159:20 AM

<ul id="{%=id%}ButtonGroup" class="button-group h-popup-buttons even-button-group even-1">
    <li id="{%=id%}Okay_buttonContainer"><a id="{%=id%}Okay" href="javascript:void(0);" class="button success no-margin-bottom h-alert-modal-ok-button" role="button">OK</a><script type="text/javascript">
        (function() {
            function {%=id%}Okay_click(event, data) {
            {%=id%}Popup.hide();
        }
        
                $('#{%=id%}Okay').on('click', {%=id%}Okay_click);
        })();
    </script></li></ul><a href="javascript:void(0);" class="close-reveal-modal" aria-label="Close Modal">&#215;</a><div class="last-modal-focus focus-utility-element" tabindex="0"></div>
</div>
<script type="text/javascript">
        (function() {
            {%=id%}Popup = new SS.Popup.ModalPopup('{%=id%}');
        })();
    </script>

Skip to main content

Membership Required

Remove From Your Block List

Manage Follow Preferences

Block

OGR Forum Supporting Membership Required

OGR Forum Supporting Membership

Help support this forum with an OGR Forum Supporting Membership.You will be able to watch the videos in the INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO FORUM!A one-year OGR Forum Supporting Membership is only $12 per year, so sign up now!

OR

Access the ALL the OGR VIDEO FORUMS AND over 300 back issues of OGRwith a DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION!

Please wait...

Help support this forum with an OGR Forum Supporting Membership.
You will be able to watch the videos in the INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO FORUM!
A one-year OGR Forum Supporting Membership is only $12 per year, so sign up now!

Access the ALL the OGR VIDEO FORUMS AND over 300 back issues of OGR
with a DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION!