More Cracked Gear Issues...

[strummer]

This time it's a Roundhouse RS3.

I've had several over the years, and I find them to be very nice models. I just got one off eBay, and all 4 axle gears are split.

I contacted NWSL, and was told it's not worth replacing those gear/axles, as they don't run well to begin with. 

I like my examples, and would like to salvage this latest purchase. Any suggestions? Would it be possible that maybe the Atlas parts might fit?

Mark in Oregon

[Spikre]

 
   which MDC RS-3 do You have?
   original had cast metal trucks,22-1 gear ratio,and Athearn axle gears.
   also had an Athearn motor with flywheels.
  2nd version had a complete Proto drive from the FA-2.
  both versions can use Athearn SD40-2 axle gears.
   the 3rd version is the Athearn modified version,so that should use the
   SD40-2 gears also.
  these critters have been around since the late 80s,so there should be plenty
  of them out there for use as parts sources.
    Spikre
       

[lajmdlr]

Mark
NWSL usually has replacement gears for all kinds of model locos. Didn't they have any for your loco? Did you call them?

[strummer]

To quote the email:

"...it has one of "those" drives that defies repair...".

I was a bit surprised, as NWSL has come through in a big way for me in the past, on similar requests.

This particular Alco has plastic side frames, what appears to be (similar to) an Athearn drive, with flywheels on both ends. The box says "Improved Power Chassis", with a Nevada address.

So anyway, (and before I read "Spikre's post) I went back to eBay, took a chance and purchased some new Athearn gears from an SD40-2. They looked like they might fit.

And perhaps they will...will let you know.

Mark in Oregon

[strummer]

Am letting you know...

Gears arrived today, and after a short stint at the work bench, am pleased to report this RS3 is back in business.

Had a few tense moments, as the fit is REAL snug, and was fearful I might split one or more of the gears as I was inserting the half-axles, but guess I was lucky.

All is well...now I get to re-paint it!

Mark in Oregon