Local friend, a tinplate enthusiast, received about 6 or so brass locos from a friend who had them stored, unpainted since original purchases. I was asked to get them in running shape.
One that I had to tune up was a United Models, Union Pacific 0-6-0, that had been poorly stored (half was covered in green crud) for some 40 plus years. Thought I had it running well until it locked up. Discovered the problem was the first driver's cast wheel was suffering from zamac rot causing the wheel to swell outward and catch on the side rod and lock up.
I gently ground down the swelling only then to have both the wheel and tire come off the axle. Thought I had this fixed but because of damage was unable to get the wheel squarely on the axle. The result is a wobble that causes the wheel to rub against the outside of the rail resulting in a somewhat hopping motion down the track.
I dare not try further attempts to square up the axle and wheel for fear of having the whole drive wheel turn to zamac dust. Friend is resigned to having this 0-6-0 a display model.
Anyone know of a replacement source and possible costs (would prefer whole wheel/axle assemble)?