Like Train Set
Guide To Model Train Set Wheels - Plastic Vs Metal
A model train set can have either plastic or metal wheels. Understanding model train wheel-set construction is important when considering which type of wheels is best for you.
A train wheel consists of a flange and a tread. The flange is the inside part of the wheel and is deeper (or longer) than the other. The tread is the flat portion that actually rides on the rail. (Real trains have the same type flange and tread manufacture.) Some wheels are mounted on an adjustable axle, which allows for some rotation of the wheels. In actuality, this two-part design of the wheel and axle is called the wheel-set. Some trains have plastic wheel-sets and some have metal wheel-sets, while still others use a combination of plastic and metal to create the wheel-set.
Plastic wheel-sets pick up an electrical charge because they are nonconductive, creating a static charge, much like static electricity in a house. This static electricity causes the wheel-sets to Since the plastic wheel-sets do not conduct electricity, there is the potential for less shorting out during your model trains operation.
Plastic wheels may become pitted due to wear and tear, causing eventual replacement of the wheels. Plastic wheels are typically quieter than metal wheels, so your train set can operate with little external sound. Usually plastic wheels can be easily cleaned by wiping them with a facial tissue.
Oiling plastic wheels is tricky in that too much oil causes the train to drag and demands more cleaning. Too little oil prevents the wheels from rolling smoothly.
The black plastic metal wheel sets may provide a more authentic look, as real train wheels are usually black.
Metal wheel-sets weigh a bit more than a plastic wheel-set, which can provide added stability to the model train set on its track, especially around curves and on grades. This means the train could sit more steadily on the track. Metal wheels could increase the train’s pulling capacity due to the added weight.
Metal wheel-sets provide a more realistic sounding clickety-clack that you would hear on a real train.
Metal wheel-sets provide a smoother operation, according to some National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) enthusiasts. A model train with metal wheels generally keeps the track cleaner and doesn’t require cleaning as often as plastic wheel-sets.
The silver color on metal wheel-sets provides a brightness that can help make your train set look new, even if it’s many years old.
If you are unsure of your preference between plastic and metal, you should experiment with both. Keep a log of noise, cleaning frequency, and derailments; all of these items can help you determine the best choice of wheel-sets for your individual train set. You may find that some train cars perform better with plastic wheel-sets and others with metal wheel-sets. The main goal is your overall enjoyment and ease of caring for your train set.
About the Author
hongfengflange.com is the leading manufactory and exporter of steel flange in Zhejiang Province of China.We are specialized in manufacturing and exporting Forged Steel Flange and Pipe Fittings.Welcome to contact and visit for business.
Like Train Set
![]() |
![]() SUPER CHIEF TRAIN SET LIFE LIKE HO SCALE ORIGINAL SANTA FE VINTAGE NIB US $490.95
|
![]() Railroad Empire Life Like HO Scale Train Set US $377.00
|
![]() Rare Rail Master HO Scale Model Electric Train Set Life Like Trains US $299.99
|
![]() Thunderball Hauler HO Electric Train Set By Life Like US $299.00
|
![]() SNAP ON TRAIN SET BY LIFE LIKE HO SCALE LIMITED EDITION MIB US $255.95
|
![]() Vintage Train Set Life Like Mountain Run New Sealed US $249.95
|
![]() Like New Condition Bachman Amtrak Acela DCC Equipped Complete Train Set US $210.00 |
![]() PROTO LIFE LIKE train set mint US $200.00
|
![]() Rail Master HO Scale Electric Train Set by Life Like US $185.00
|
![]() NIB LIFE LIKE HO SCALE FOODLAND EXPRESS 2000 READY TO RUN ELECTRIC TRAIN SET US $175.50
|
![]() LIFE LIKE TRAINS HO SCALE SNAP ON TOOLS DIAMOND EXPRESS ELECTRIC TRAIN SET US $174.50
|
![]() Life Like HO Scale UP Diesel Driver Train Set NEW 8852 US $172.95
|
![]() Life Like HO Scale High Iron Burnin Rubber Race Car Train Set NEW 9142 US $162.95
|
![]() NIB RARE VINTAGE LIFE LIKE MAINLINE EPRESS HO SCALE COMPLETE TRAIN SET W BRIDGE US $159.99
|
![]() Life Like Railroad Empire HO Scale Santa Fe Train Set 97 Pieces 433 8646 Box NEW US $159.99
|
![]() LIFE LIKE SUPER CHIEF MODEL 8739 SANTA FE HO TRAIN SET SEALED 36 INCH TRACK US $149.99
|
![]() NEW Life Like Railroad Empire HO Scale Power Loc Train Set 97 Pcs 433 8646 READ US $149.99
|
![]() Life Like Rail Blaster Train Set HO US $129.95
|
![]() Life Like Reading Company King Coal HO Train Set Locos and Cars only VERY NICE US $125.00
|
![]() Campbells Life Like Electric Train Set HO Scale US $120.00
|
![]() Life Like HO Scale Santa Fe Thundering Rails Train Set NEW US $119.95
|
![]() Life Like Railroad Empire 7 Unit HO Scale Train Set 433 8646 NEW US $101.96
|
![]() Life Like big mountain hauler model train set BRAND NEW US $100.00
|
![]() Complete Life Like Train Set Never Played With In Original Box US $125.00
|
![]() Life Like HO Harley Davidson Limited Edition Train Set w FA Diesel Locomotive US $99.99
|
![]() Life Like Rail Runner HO Scale Electric Train Scenery Set Walthers 433 8635 US $99.99
|

How old is a Lionel, mfd for JC Penny #19333 Electric Train set?
I have a Lionel #19333 electrict train set. The box says "Made exclusively for JC Penny. I'd like to about when it was manufactured. There is a Diesel Locomotive, 2 flat cars, a caboose, track and a transformer.
1964


US $490.95
























