Howdy and a happy new year to all.
In building scale models, utmost accuracy is very important to modelers. In most cases, accuracy is provided by companies that make 1/48 and other scale plastic scale models. In my experience for example, modelers of scale aircraft try for the most realistic and accurate markings, paint schemes, armament, etc. for aircraft in specific squadrons and specific time period. Having modeled that way myself, now that I'm getting back to model railroading, it is the only way I can go.
With that perspective, I'm getting back into MRR and I've done quite a bit of research into whether to use HO or P87 wheels on locos and rolling stock. I've read many discussions about the relative merits of P87 versus its drawbacks and each side has valuable arguments. Please remember that I have little first hand experience of anything I might mention. This is strictly based on what I've gleaned from the Web.
From what I see and read, P87 replacement wheel sets are available only for rolling stock and diesels. They are not manufactured for steam locos. Why aren't wheel sets for steam locos available? Obviously, the answer is that no one makes them and the reason no one makes them is because not enough modelers want them. And why is that? Because they are not compatible with regular HO turnouts to be precise.
Now, converting an existing layout with dozens of HO turnouts to P87 standards on most layouts is cost prohibitive and time consuming. I can understand that. Another reason for not converting is that many modelers are less concerned with accuracy and detail and more with ease of functionality and what works now is good enough - a compromise. Modelers seem to relish detail and accuracy in locos. rolling stock, couplers, buildings, scenery, trackage, lighting, correct loco sound and performance - you name it except when it comes to wheels and track. Close is good enough!
Unfortunately, this works against modelers like me who are just getting started who would like to go the P87 route and run steamers but who have to make the choice other than P87. And unless things change toward P87, future modelers will face the same decision in years to come.
Now, I've learned that the Brits model in P4 in the UK so someone's making scale wheels close to but smaller than P87. Why then can't some one in the United States of America make P87 wheels for steam locos? Is it that difficult? Can't hobbyists/machinists do it? Are they cost prohibitive to make? Must be! But you'd think someone out there could/would take a chance. I've read web pages describing the process so it seems it's just a matter of doing it. I hate to say this but I'm sure someone in China or Eastern Europe could make a million P87 wheel sets for steam locos for very little. I think some entrepreneur can make a bundle and cause a paradigm shift in the hobby at the same time.
So are semi-scale code 88 wheel sets the answer? Seems like the best compromise to me at the moment. It seems it's been a few years since this code was adopted. So why don't rolling stock and loco manufacturers at least offer code 88 wheel sets? Cost? Seems what manufacturers want and get is good enough.
Even though it can be done, FT turnouts are still iffy when it comes to code 88. Wouldn't it be great if cast, code 88 safe frogs like Andy Reichart's, could be plugged into all types of FT turnouts or if CVT made more than standard plastic turnout tie strips that would accept code 88 safe frogs?
|