I replaced the traction tires on my MTH Premier LIRR G5s 4-6-0 steam locomotive a few days ago - a job I never enjoy. The model is about 15 years old and is run frequently, pulling three 18-inch passenger cars on Atlas O-72 track. This was only the second time I have changed tires on this engine. The previous time was seven years ago. The tires I just installed were purchased in 2011, stored in the box sent to me by MTH, and did not appear to have any deterioration. The tires I removed were stretched but not cracked. One tire was stuck in the groove and was cut with a razor blade to extract. Small diameter curved-track, heavy consists and fast running will increase the wear on traction tires, as will switches and gaps between track sections. The flat-top profile of Atlas O rails is easier on the tires than a curved-top rail profile. I would prefer that my 3-rail models not have traction tires and would accept the resulting loss of pulling force, but that is not a good option with smaller diameter tubular track.
MELGAR
