Thank you all for your input and experiences
I have lowered a few cars but kept the CLAWS on them.
On my holiday setup I am limited to 045 curves and run small steam and 40 ft cars.
I bought 2 o scale cement cars and put hi rail wheels on them and left the KD's
I will have to see how they run on 045 curves and may convert a few others.
I really love the looks of the KD's!!