Plastic vs metal wheels - Model Railroader Magazine
Sqaushing 'Old wives (modelers) tales: Sorry.
"Metal wheels ROLL BETTER than plastic wheels" Only if the sideframes reduce friction on the turning axles. (One the free'st rolling trucks of all time were the 'Lindberg', with Delrin sideframes and plastic wheels). It's the Sideframes, folks.
Some of the worst rolling trucks of all time were metal wheels - with metal sideframes.
"Metal wheels ATTRACT (more/less) dirt". (Can't be both). Contaminants are picked up by wheels and redeposited - by both metal and plastic.. (Where do they get it?) Your track.
Metal wheels have a 'polishing' action on brass track ('Tarnishing'). Nickel Siver, while collecting oil & dirt, does not tarnish. It contaminates. So?
Electrical: Metal wheels conduct electrity (Plastic doesnt) - A 'mixed bag'.
Necessary for illumination & sound, metal produces current 'spikes' crossing into reversing loops some fast-acting crowbars (like DCC ) don't like.
Cure is lengthy reverse loops or Special reversing circuit$ for DCC'ers not interested in electrical basics.
SUMMATION:
'Machined wheels' (NWSL - JAY BEE) are more expensive but tend to be heavier and more in accord with the NMRA.
Trucks with 'slippery plastic sideframes & polished axles 'roll' better. The best will show you where you aren't 'on-the-level'.
Benifits of metal wheels are primaily weight distribution. IE: 'Unsprung weight' . It increases 'trackability' better than 'sprung' weight (with a lower center of gravity).
NOISE increases are minimal, and are too often only noticed when Plywood acts as a 'sound board' (Larger surface transmitting vibration).
Non absorbent roadbed + hardened glue & ballast + nails transmitting sound are things to remedy. Dual profie cork (HO on top of O gauge) and 'Mat Medium (a rubber based glue) are wonderful (and cheap) cures - especially if you have sound. NOISE? The remedy is summed up in a single word: "Decouple".
Don Gibson .............. ________ _______ I I__()____||__| ||||| I / I ((|__|----------| | |||||||||| I ______ I // o--O O O O-----o o OO-------OO ###########################
