|
|
Post by amrec99 on Mar 14, 2024 3:29:19 GMT -8
All,
I am in the process of fixing/weathering a group of BLI N&W H2A HO scale hoppers. Unfortunately, I removed the wheel set screws from 2 of the 6 packs (12 cars total) and have misplaced the 24 screws needed to reassemble them! I am in communication with BLI asking for their help with available replacement parts but the cars themselves are probably 20 years old and BLI is not sure what they have available (if anything). But they are being very helpful.
My question to the forum is - does anyone have any spares they would be willing to part with or do you know of a replacement screw that would function in its place? I am looking for ideas. Maybe a model vendor has an assortment of screws that you've had success in using for "just such an emergency" (to quote Foghorn Leghorn!!)
Thanks for any constructive advice you can offer,
Jim
|
|
|
|
Post by packer on Mar 14, 2024 5:37:48 GMT -8
It's probably a standard screw, usually 2mm or a 2-56. Maybe someone here has one and can tell you which one it is.
|
|
|
|
Post by prr 4467 on Mar 14, 2024 8:05:08 GMT -8
I have owned those cars in the past, and I do not believe it is a standard 2-56 screw at all, but instead one that has a larger flat or shouldered area as part of the head to cover the bolster, or rather to hold the truck on the bolster.
|
|
|
|
Post by amrec99 on Mar 14, 2024 9:55:20 GMT -8
That is correct. I tried using 2-56 screws and they were too “fat”! And there is a built in washer that secures the truck to the body.
|
|
|
|
Post by gmpullman on Mar 14, 2024 11:21:09 GMT -8
I looked at one of mine. The threaded length is 4mm and the washer OD is 6mm. Thread major diameter is 2mm but I'm not sure of the pitch. Possibly 0.4mm. The coupler draft gear takes the same screw as far as I can tell. An M2 x 4mm truss head screw would probably work if you can't find the integral washer type. I like to keep several computer and laptop screw assortments around for model RR use. THIS kit has several M2 screws of various lengths. Worse case scenario is you have to use a thin flat washer (maybe a Kadee washer?) in there. a.co/d/5vbGFTvAMAZON Computer Screw Assortment Broadway H2 Bolster Screw by Edmund, on Flickr  Broadway H2 Bolster Screw top by Edmund, on Flickr  Broadway H2 Bolster Screw thread by Edmund, on Flickr DO you still have the screws for the draft gear? You COULD substitute those for the trucks and use these for the draft gear. This screw only has a 3.7mm washer head. M2 x 4 mm screw M2 X 5mm flat washer One mm shy but 'should' work. Good Luck, Ed |
|
|
|
Post by amrec99 on Mar 15, 2024 5:23:39 GMT -8
Thanks for your suggestions. I'll pick up a laptop screw set to get the ones you are suggesting. And, of course, I have bunches of Kadee washers to use! My hopper cars have a different screw for the coupler box than the one your pics show. So I can't swap them out. Again, thanks for taking the time to take pics and reply.
|
|
|
|
Post by gmpullman on Mar 17, 2024 9:41:01 GMT -8
Just out of curiosity I ordered this set of computer fasteners: SCREWS
I tried the M2 x 4 screws included in the set (quan. 50) and they fit the BLI bolster perfectly and the washer head on the screw was plenty wide enough to secure the truck. Good Luck, Ed |
|
|
|
Post by amrec99 on Mar 17, 2024 11:13:48 GMT -8
Wow. Thanks for your efforts. You get a gold star for helping a brother out! I will give a follow up on results.
|
|
|
|
Post by amrec99 on Mar 21, 2024 4:47:49 GMT -8
gmpullman,
I received the screw set from Amazon yesterday and just tried the screw size you suggested and, voila, it worked perfectly. So thank you VERY much for your comments and research. Of course, BLI came through with some spare screws as well. So now I am swimming in theses screws! But all my H2A hoppers will be back on the rails at the club tomorrow night.
Thanks again,
Jim
|
|
