HOn3 cars for TrainNut

[nachoman]

I got into HOn3 because it allowed me to build a smaller HO scale layout and get by with 18" curves and #4 turnouts. I assume many others got into HOn3 for similar reasons. My standard has been that my HOn3 cars should negotiate 18" curves and #4 turnouts. I am convinced that many HOn3 kit manufacturers designed their kits to look good but not necessarily run well. I have found most kits require a little tweaking or modification to get the trucks to swivel right or be able to use Kadee couplers. These Rail Line kits are no exception. Part of the problem is the larger than scale wheel tread widths and truck sideframe thicknesses needed in order to make an operating model. Also, many details are thicker than scale in order to be seen, facilitate installation, and reduce breakage.

Before adding the delicate brake staff and stirrup steps, I decided it best to add trucks and couplers to see if the couplers are at the right height and the trucks mount properly. It's easier to do this now than after the car is painted and detailed - and it's a good thing I did. As designed, these boxcars will probably not negotiate anything less than 24" curves and #6 turnouts with the blackstone trucks because the wheels rub against the truss rods and the floor beams. Trainnut specifically requested that these be running models with working couplers, so I needed to make a few modifications for reliable service.

   

First, I had to shorten the brake pipe detail I made under the car. Instead of terminating it at the truck bolster, I terminated it at a cross beam closer to the center of the car. I also carved away the inside corner of the floor beam as indicated by the red arrow. I also had to make a brass clip to pull the truss rods right against the center beam and out off the way. I could have simply used CA to glue the truss rod to the center beam, but I was wary of the CA failing over time. In hindsight, the best solution would have been to drill the truss rod holes right next to the center beam instead of where the instructions specified. Nonetheless, all the modifications I made are hidden by the trucks. The cars roll great now, and negotiate my #4 turnouts and 18" curves with ease. They now should handle any tricky trackwork that Trainnut can throw at them