1. RealSTMFC | Main
  2. Messages

Re: Using "The Tool" (truck ream)?

A&Y Dave in MD
 

I’d be concerned about squeezing the journal boxes “hard.”  The frames are flexible and you are doing more than just reaming out molding imperfections.   I do not think that even doing so you would end up with a consistent required axle length.

 

There is usually no easy, one-size fits all answer unless you keep changing the question until you get one.

 

To reduce variation, use the same manufacturer for all your truck side frames. It won’t eliminate variation, but it will reduce it.  If you only want one axle length, then only buy one truck type and throw out any that don’t meet your specs.

 

But if you want to have the correct trucks under your models, I think you’re going to need a variety of manufacturers and truck types.  That means variation in the axle length, even after reaming the side frames with the tool.

 

Choose your poison.

 

Dave Bott

 

From: STMFC@... [mailto:STMFC@...]
Sent: Wednesday, March 29, 2017 6:10 PM
To: STMFC@...
Subject: [STMFC] Re: Using "The Tool" (truck ream)?

 

 

Jeff and all,

When I use "The Tool" I hold the truck with the bearing
boxes of the axle I'm reaming between my fingers and
squeeze them - hard - as I turn the tool.
If I put the same wheelset back into the same truck
after reaming I can feel that the axle is a bit looser
than it was before in terms of end play.
Some trucks are even noticeably spread out by the tool
itself when you first put the tool in. After reaming some
of that spreading is gone.

My conclusion is that the axle distance between the
side frames does change due to the tool (in addition
to the conical hole also being smoothed out).

I use one of the original "Exxact Tools" and I turn it
in the truck at least 10 full turns per hole (4 times
= 40 full turns total).
And I -always- see some plastic shavings/turnings
that come out of the truck when I remove the tool.
From both ends and about the same amount of
shavings for each end/side of the truck.

****

Let me ask the question differently - if I know the
length of the tool (point to point) is there a recommended
amount of difference (decrease) for the probable optimum
axle that will "fit" that distance?
- Jim B.
Join {main@RealSTMFC.groups.io to automatically receive all group messages.