Tichy Arch Bar Trucks

The archbar truck was the most commonly found truck during the 19th century. They were composed of pressed steel and bar components that were bolted together and could be found on 40 and 50-ton capacity freight cars. Although they worked well, archbar trucks required a lot of maintenance. The bolts that held them together tended to work loose with the shocks and jolts of heavy operation and would require frequent tightening. They were gradually replaced by more advanced designs starting in the 19-teens. Eventually being banned from interchange service entirely in 1940.

In the past, I've used the MDC/Roundhouse archbar on most of my builds and cars. As I happened to have had access to a large stockpile of these, and most of the roundhouse cars which at one point made up my fleet came with them stock. However, as time went on, these started to become harder and harder to find and my own stock pile diminished. 

Both Kadee and Tichy offer an arch-bar set that comes as a pair of trucks. Tichy's come as a kit, while Kadee's are ready to run. I decided to snatch up a number of the Tichy sets as these can be modified to make a broad variety of truck styles. Including the body-hung brake beams since the brake-shoes are a separate part and don't need to be placed in between the wheelsets. I also like that the journal box covers are separate parts. So I can model a few either ajar, or cocked on their hinges. (Darn lazy carmen.) 

Each truck comes on it's own sprue. Included are a number of nylon bearing caps (thankfully Tichy was smart and kind enough to include some extras...for the inevitable cut that send one spewing off into the ether.) as well as the side frames, center bolster, and brake-shoes and beams. The finely molded styrine is easy to cut, and the directions simple to assemble. 

I like to build a number in quick succession. The brake-beams as provided slot into the bottom of the bolster after the truck is anchored to the car. So, unless you are ready to place the truck onto it's car as soon as it's finished, you will have to hold off on this final piece until you are ready.

Overall, a fine product from Tichy and one which I now have in large number thanks to the low cost. 

 If one is interested in this product, the kits can be obtained direct from Tichy or you can order them in bulk from Train Life

(Please note I am not associated with these companies; links are provided for modeler's convenience and not sponsored.)