rockstars1989 posted:Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:Took about 8 engines off tracks to install ballast. When starting to put them back I noticed ta pilot wheel flapping in the breeze on my new Polar Express Berkshire. Good luck finding it. Probably under a glued ballast section. No shorts, safe there. I mention it because this bushing seems to have been an evolution of the same problems experienced in the past. I'm sure Lionel will be happy to send me a couple. Wanted others to see if they are having or are going to have the same issue.
Bryant some advice for you as I just went through an ordeal yesterday with this.I have the Legacy 765 NKP Berk. I had to order the same plastic wheel bearings to hold in the pilot and trailing truck wheels.
I didn't"t think replacing them was going to be a big deal. Install them on the axles and snap them in...NOT
The axles fit WAY to tight into the new replacement bearing, and when you snap them in, the wheels are solid and will not spin freely-they will drag and cause the Locomotive to derail.THEN don't try to pry them out as you will bend the axle and then the problem gets worse.
You are going to have to drill the hole in the bearing EVER so slightly larger and a little deeper (7/64). Do NOT chuck a drill bit up in a drill. It is to aggressive and will blow out the side or end and ruin the bearing as there is not much material surrounding the hole. I clamped the drill bit into a pair of vice grips and twisted it in gently and I mean GENTLY.. by hand. I installed and it is perfect.Add a drop of Oil to the bearing also. Good luck. Nick
Thank you Nick. Very insightful. I willl follow you instruction when I install them.
