Lionel FA-2 w/ 3rd Rail Pilot

Some modifications so far...

thanks!

-Mario

Mock up... still working out how I’m going to fasten it to the frame. 

I enjoy the modifications you are doing.I have the MTH NYC  C-Liner and that coupler sticks out like a sore thumb and wish a scale front was around for that locomotive.

Does this increase the minimum curve? 

Trainlover9943 posted:

Does this increase the minimum curve? 

Yes. For most locomotives fixed pilots and scale couplers increase the minimum curve significantly. Either by preventing the truck from swinging or the couplers not having enough travel.

O40 goes out the window. 

Thanks!

-Mario

MR-150 posted:

I enjoy the modifications you are doing.I have the MTH NYC  C-Liner and that coupler sticks out like a sore thumb and wish a scale front was around for that locomotive.

Have you tried MTH to see if they have a 2-rail pilot available?  Another option is try and adapting an Atlas Erie-Built 2R pilot. 

Sounds like a great project. 

thanks!

-Mario

Pete Kruimer posted:

That looks great, Pete!

I wonder why scale operating couplers are not standerd on scale locomotives and cars.

harley rider posted:

I wonder why scale operating couplers are not standerd on scale locomotives and cars.

They are, from some manufacturers. However, 3-Rail rolling stock, even the fully scale pieces, will always come with the 3-Rail "toy train" lobster claw couplers.

CentralFan1976 posted:

MR-150 posted:

I enjoy the modifications you are doing.I have the MTH NYC  C-Liner and that coupler sticks out like a sore thumb and wish a scale front was around for that locomotive.

Have you tried MTH to see if they have a 2-rail pilot available?  Another option is try and adapting an Atlas Erie-Built 2R pilot. 

Sounds like a great project. 

thanks!

-Mario

MTH only makes parts available for replacement, not for modifications or upgrades.  IOW you have to call and ask for parts, not just order them.  And if the person on the phone thinks you are looking for parts for modification they will just tell you they are not available.

MTH never made this locomotive in 2 rail 

Howdy,

I am in for at least 2 of the Lionel Alco PA pilots as well!  

I did a series in OGR in 2015 showing how to scratch build the PA pilot from brass. If you can solder,  use a file and some hand tools you can do it.

I wanted scale pilots that had the correct height over the rails. Also, fabricated the radio antenna these ATSF units had along with other detail.

Ron H posted:

I did a series in OGR in 2015 showing how to scratch build the PA pilot from brass. If you can solder,  use a file and some hand tools you can do it.

I wanted scale pilots that had the correct height over the rails. Also, fabricated the radio antenna these ATSF units had along with other detail.

Your pilots set the bar... the best!

Thanks,

- Mario