Sumpter 250's duff challenge

[Sumpter250]

I thought I posted this a few days ago, but apparently it didn't post -
I had to replace the pins on my 2-8-0 due to wear - I cut the pins as close to the counterweights as possible, drilled through the pin and counterweight and inserted a brass tube of the same diameter and epoxied in place. I then cut the brass tube the right length, and tapped for a 00-90 hex head screw. So far, it has worked great, and much better than the original pins.

:o ( sound of tires screeching to a shuddering halt ) :o
That could be a valuable piece of information for anyone who has and runs the MDC loco kits.
engage brain, and think 8-)
OK, but you didn't have to add an "eccentric crank" ( no, not a crabby old codger like me ) to the pin, to drive the valve gear. I did use 00-90 hex head screws to attach the drive rods to the crossheads, I never really cared for the original means of attachment.
The eccentric crank, with a small washer behind it, will hold the side rod,and the drive rod in place, on the pin. I can secure the eccentric cranks to the pins, once they are aligned correctly, with a touch of solder. A touch of "locktite" on the pin's threads will keep them secure in the counterweights.
I still would like to know where I could find that 0.023" ( the dia. of the MDC pin ) Brass tubing. I could find numerous uses for it.