Heljan IWB Vans

[bigdaveadams1]

Hello all, I'm after some advice please....

Has anyone converted a Heljan Cargowaggon (IWB)? If so, what wheels would I need to order please?

Any advice is welcome!!

Cheers

Dave

[Andrew Ullyott]

I've converted a bogie wagon without difficulty. Used 10.5mm n/s branch lines wheels from memory.

[Terry Bendall]

I have done a cargo wagon and two flats all using 10.5 mm wheels from Branchlines and fitted straight into the existing bogies although these had brass bearings let into the frames. The wagon will be running on Longcarse West which will on show at Railwells in a couple of weeks time.

Terry Bendall

[Mark Forrest]

Interesting. I used 12mm wheels in mine, on the basis that the Heljan wheels I was replacing were 12mm.

I only have one source of drawings of these to hand and that shows a 3' diameter wheel (but is in a book noted for its inaccuracies).

Anyone know which is the correct wheel size?

[Terry Bendall]

Interesting. I used 12mm wheels in mine,

Sorry my mistake caused by not checking first. There are 12mm diameter wheels in the ones I have done.

Terry Bendall

[Andrew Ullyott]

never trust my memory...
12mm wheels indeed

[bigdaveadams1]

Cheers all!

Mark I didn't realise you were on here as well, it was me asking about these wagons on your RMWeb thread.

Did you guys have to file much of the bogie away to squeeze the wheelsets in?

I'm a complete beginner, so should I start with something else or is it something I can have a go at? I suppose there's only one way to find out!

Thanks again

[Mark Forrest]

Did you guys have to file much of the bogie away to squeeze the wheelsets in?

I'm a complete beginner, so should I start with something else or is it something I can have a go at? I suppose there's only one way to find out!

It didn't need much filing off, just a few passes with a file until the wheels were spinning freely. It's a simple conversion, ideal for a beginner

[bigdaveadams1]

I managed the conversion and they run without derailing!!
I'm now thinking about fitting brass bearings. Any idea where's best to purchase them?

[Flymo748]

I managed the conversion and they run without derailing!!
I'm now thinking about fitting brass bearings. Any idea where's best to purchase them?

I'd suggest Alan Gibson. You have the choice of full-bodied, or shouldered. http://www.alangibsonworkshop.com/

The shouldered ones are very useful if you don't have much space in the axlebox to take them. I'm sorry, but I haven't done one of these conversions so I can't speak for how much room there is.

HTH,
Flymo

[Terry Bendall]

I'm now thinking about fitting brass bearings.

I would support Flymo's suggestions but on the vehicles I have done I have not fitted any bearings. They work fine and do not have a lot of use so no need in my view. If it ain't broke don't fix it!

Terry Bendall

[bigdaveadams1]

I'm now thinking about fitting brass bearings.

I would support Flymo's suggestions but on the vehicles I have done I have not fitted any bearings. They work fine and do not have a lot of use so no need in my view. If it ain't broke don't fix it!

Terry Bendall

Terry mine don't see a lot of use either, so I'm going to take your advice!