Need Kato Mikado advise ...

[eja]

I have a chance to buy a used Kato Mikado at a very good price, however, it has a "cracked" traction tire.

So two questions come to mind.  First, since this part is not available on the Kato web site, is there an alternative source ?

And second,  how difficult is it to replace a traction tire for someone with no experience working on steam locos and poor eyesight?

Any advice appreciated.

eja

[Mike C]

 How much are you willing to spend ? I have a Kato 2-8-2 with the traction tire and Tsunami 2 sound . I'd take 140.00 for it .     Mike

[mkearns]

If you already have the Kato traction tire driver, and the traction tire is cracked, all you really need to do is replace the rubber tire itself.

There are a few sources for the tire I can think of:
https://lovetrainhobbies.com/N-scale-traction-tires-locomotive-engine-replacements-steam-diesel-N-scale-traction-tires-lovetrain-hobbies-mm-N-MAIN.html
https://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=9028

To replace the traction tire, I find it easiest to remove the driver. It’s actually pretty straightforward on the Kato Mikado because the driver isn’t connected to the rods. Flip the locomotive upside down in a soft cradle. Remove the screws from the bottom plate, and lift it off. Remove ONLY the traction tire driver. Remove the cracked rubber from the groove on the traction driver. I use a toothpick to scrape out any stuck, dry rotted bits. Stretch a new traction tire into the groove. Again, I’ll use something like a toothpick to help me, anything much sharper risks nicking or cutting the rubber tire. Replace the newly shod driver back in the chassis. Strict quartering isn’t required, only enough to look right. and then reattach the bottom plate.