George (and anyone else with an interest).....
Here is what I use for non-magnetic wheels. I use Old Pullman and White Oak
Models turnouts all gauged to the current NASG standards.
NWSL #37757-4 33" for ACE, Kinsman, etc. (trucks without conical holes)
(1.265" axle length)
NWSL #37758-4 36" for ACE, etc. (1.265" axle length)
NWSL #37767-4 33" for AM and PRS. (1.280" axle length)
NWSL #37768-4 36" for AM and PRS. (1.280" axle length)
NWSL #37737-4 33" for SHS. (1.270" axle length)
Note that the first four part numbers listed above are of the so-called
"NASG" type. The fifth part number is the so-called "S" type. All of them
seem to fit the NASG gage just fine. All part numbers claim to be solid
nickel silver. Thus, no nickel plating to flake off of brass wheels.
Interestingly, the first four part numbers are brownish (weathered) in color
whereas the last part number is nearly black (very dark brown?) in color.
Not sure why.
Last but not least, it should be mentioned that for most folks there is no
critical need for non-magnetic wheelsets. It is a personal preference for me
due to using standard HO couplers without extending the glad hand and using
stronger-than-normal under-the-track magnets. Thus, for me, being totally
non-magnetic is crucial. For most folks, using Kadee couplers as God
intended them to be used, non-magnetic wheelsets might not be mandatory
depending on what type of uncoupler you use -- between-the-rails,
electromagnetic or under-the-track. Got all that?
Also, as a side comment, the SHS wheelsets have non-magnetic wheels, but
have magnetic steel axles. A hybrid if there ever was one. Not sure what
the logic was for a hybrid, but it is what it is. Neither fish nor fowl,
but somewhere in between. Call it "semi-magnetic".
Moving along to some S scale philosophy: It is apparent that all the major
S manufacturers make their products with differing axle lengths and
different materials. Since NASG claims to be the organization that sets S
standards, perhaps they could make an effort to get all four S scale major
manufacturers into one room at the same time. Maybe offer to buy Don, Jim,
Ron and Ron a free beer to entice them into a meeting. It sure would be
nice if all the S products could use an identical upgrade wheelset. Just
ask NWSL about all the headaches to produce a variety of differing products
when just one standardized product would be so much simpler. NASG.......are
you listening? H-a-a-a-l-p........
I have no idea which NWSL wheelset would be appropriate for Des Plaines
and/or S Scale America and/or BTS and/or other S products. I tend to think
one of the existing wheelsets will probably work just fine in most cases,
but have not yet made the switch for those manufacturers. Perhaps Ron
Sebastion can enlighten us all on his axle length(s) for S Scale America
products? Also, have the PRS axles been changed in any way since Ron took
over the product line? People need to know.....especially me!
Keep 'em rolling.....Ed L.
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