V-Other Traction Products
A-Line
Precision Micro-motors for Traction Repowerings

A-line currently markets four Mashima precision motors, three of which (40321, 40322 & 40324) have the most application to HO scale traction modelers. All three have 1.5mm shafts and are compatible with A-line cradles and flywheels. Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club have been using these motors almost exclusively for traction repowerings since 1998.

#40321 - $39.00 each
#40322 - $39.00 each
#40324 - $36.00 each

For specific information on each of these motors, consult the A-line/Proto Power West catalog.

Flywheel Retrofit Kit for Bowser 1999 Trolleys [20040] - $7.95

This kit is for the 1999 drives only and does not fit the earlier (1966) drives. Kit includes one tapered A-line 20021 flywheel, replacement universal drive components and instructions. Original motor and motor mounts are retained and not relocated. Kit takes ten minutes to install. Razor saw and modeler's knife and A-line #20010 Flywheel Cement required for installation. For installation instructions, click here.

Flywheels for Improved Motor Performance

A-line currently produces four flywheels, two of which (20006 & 20021) have the most application to HO scale traction modelers. Each flywheel has a 2.0mm shaft which is compatible with the motors listed above. For specific information on each of these flywheels, consult the A-line/Proto Power West catalog.


#20006 (left) - $7.95 (2/pkg.)
#20021(right) - $8.95 (2/pkg.)

Motor Cradles - $5.50 each
When repowering electric railway vehicles, significant weight is removed when the original open frame motor is replaced as can motors are much lighter. The A-line cradle acts as an excellent mount for the A-line motor and replaces this weight and improves traction by placing this weight low in the car. A-line makes several cradles for different applications, three of which are shown to the right. Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club mainly use the #12401 cradle. For more information on these cradles, consult the A-line/Proto Power West catalog.
Ball Couplings [12054] - $3.25

These ball couplings are designed to fit 2.0mm shafts as found on Mashima 40321, 40322 and 40324 motors. This kit must be used in conjunction with A12031 when re-motoring units with A-line motors.

Brass Sleeves [12053] - $5.95 (4 per package)

To increase A-line #40321, #40322 or #40324 motor shaft diameter to 2.4mm (3/32") to mount the spring belt drive knurled pulley, use one of these units.

Universal Coupling Kit [12031] - $6.50

This kit is used to update drive trains in model traction vehicles. Contained in each kit are two lengths of 3/32" steel shafts, three plastic female ball couplings, two male ball couplings, one four-prong ball coupling, one four-prong coupling, one small spline, three long splines, two long ball couplings for 2.4 mm shafts, and two short ball couplings for 2.4 mm shafts. Refer to the Trolleyville Schoolhouse for more information in using this item.This slow curing compound was designed for cylindrical part bonding to provide an extremely strong bond while facilitating time for precise flywheel positioning on motor shafts. It sets in about five minutes. (.02 fl oz)

Flywheel Cement [20010] - $3.95

This slow curing compound was designed for cylindrical part bonding to provide an extremely strong bond while facilitating time for precise flywheel positioning on motor shafts. It sets in about five minutes. (.02 fl oz)

 
Bowser Manufacturing Company
Complete Ready-to-Run Painted PCC Cars (HO) - $115.00 (Powered) / $35.00 (Souvenir, unpowered)!

San Francisco 'F-line' PCC cars
Powered [12549-12563]
Souvenir [12750-12763]

[Note: The first four cars of the series, shown at right, arrived in November 2009. The next four cars, San Francisco 1050, Chicago 1058, Boston 1059 and Baltimore 1063 should arrive in February or March 2010. The final six cars, San Francisco 1051, Brooklyn 1053, Philadelphia 1054, Kansas City 1056, Newark 1060 and Louisville 1062 should be available by the summer of 2010.]

This car consists of an entirely new injection molded model of the ex-Philadelphia PCC cars obtained by San Francisco in the early 1990s for use in opening the F-line in 1995. These cars were base service on the line from 1995 until joined by ex-Milan Peter Witt cars, ex-Newark PCC cars and other heritage cars from New Orleans, Brussels, Melbourne and San Francisco. These cars are available in both powered and souvenir (unpowered) models. The powered model consists of a new injection molded PCC body with windows combined with the proven 1999 Bowser traction mechanism upgraded with a flywheel for even smoother operation. Each car is completely assembled with non-working trolley poles. There are a small number of undecorated models available. [12549]. The souvenir (unpowered) model consists of the same shell, windows and trolley poles as the powered unit with all roof detail mounted on a plastic floor with plastic wheels. Eventually a separate drive qill be available that will power the souvenir units, giving them the same capability as the originally powered units.

Special Decoder for the Bowser F-line PCC from Train Control Systems [M4T] - $39.95
Custom Traxx has collaborated with Train Control Systems for a decoder designed for the Bowser San Francisco F-line streetcar. This modified four function decoder, the M4T, features realistic brake light operation when the car is slowing down or stopped. Function 3 will activate the brake lights effect. Pressing the Function 6 button will initiate a complete controlled stop of the car and the brake lights will stay illuminated as long as the car is stopped. Pressing the Function 6 button a second time returns the car to the original speed. This is a plug in decoder. The M4T is currently available from Custom Traxx and selected dealers!
Complete Ready-to-Run Unpainted Cars (HO) - $75.00

In August 1999, Bowser released their revised power unit for all four HO scale trolleys in production. The new units, called the Bowser 1999 drives, feature can motors, eight wheel electrical current pickup with solid brass wheels, electrically neutral chassis, smooth operation with low current draw. Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club tested the units and have several Bowser and cars, including brass models, operating with these units. They are highly rated in both operational and cost performance. The following units are currently available:

PCC Streamlined Trolley [125210]**

This is a model of the 1945 President's Conference Committee Car (PCC), which was the second of three models. The others were the 1936 model, known as the "air-car" and the 1951 model, built only for Boston and known as the "Picture Windows". Over 5000 PCC cars in all three models were built between 1936 and 1952 and several survive in San Francisco on the F-Market line. More information on the Bowser PCC Streamlined Trolley.

Brill Suburban (1906 Semi-Convertible Car) [125220]

This is a model of a very common streetcar which in one form or another served almost every community. A semi-convertible car is one where the side windows disappeared either up into the roof or down into lower side pockets but were not removed from the car as in the case of a convertible. Similar cars still run in museums and in Portland, Oregon. More information about the Bowser Brill Suburban.
Indiana Railroad (IRR) Lightweight Interurban [125230]

Fourteen of these high speed coach-lounge cars were built for The Indiana Railroad by American Car & Foundry in 1931. Several went on to other lines after the Indiana Railroad ceased operations and some still exist in museums.
More information about the Bowser IRR Interurban.

Lehigh Valley Transit (LVT) Jewett Interurban [125240]

Twelve of these handsome cars were ordered in 1912 (800 to 805) and in 1913 (806 to 811) and were in service until the mid-1930s. Cars 800, 802, 806, 808 and 809 were converted to express cars C16, C14, C17, C15 and C18 between 1935 and 1940. Car 808 survives at Electric City Trolley Museum in Scranton, PA.
More information about the Jewett LVT interurban.

Conversion Mechanisms with Floors (HO)

 

Each Bowser 1999 HO scale traction mechanism contains power and trailing trucks, can motor, solid brass wheels, drive shafts, universal joints and Baldwin, Brill, and Commonwealth truck side frames along with PCC track brakes. Conversion mechanism is already mounted to the appropriate floor for the intended shell and directions and special mounting hardware for the shell are provided. A look at a typical Bowser traction mechanism is available in the photo of the SLRV [125147] mechanism below:

For older Bowser and Pennsylvania Scale Models (PSM) PCC Shells - [125141]** - $65.00
For Bachmann PCC Shells - [125142]
** - $65.00
For Bachmann Brill Shells - [125143] - $65.00
For older Bowser and PSM Brill shells - [125144] - $65.00
For older Bowser and PSM Indiana Railroad (IRR) lightweight interurban shells - [125145] - $65.00
For older Bowser LVT Jewett and freelance interurbans - [125146] - $65.00

Custom Traxx stocks a number of repair parts for the Bowser trolley mechanisms. Call or email for information!

NOTE: The next two mechanisms are available only from Custom Traxx and as of November 1, 2008 contain two SCTC-3 SLRV/LRT Track Brake Assemblies for each truck!

For AHM/IHC/Mehano Boeing Standard Light Rail Vehicles (SLRV) - [125147] - $95.00*
For Kawasaki Single End Light Rail Transit (LRT) Vehicles (1997 issue body shells) - [125148] - $75.00*

NOTE: Mechanisms with floors, 125147, shown below, and 125148 consist of Bowser 125100 mechanisms mounted on milled aluminum or pewter floors designed for the specific shells. Both mechanisms can be retrofitted with the A-line #20040 flywheel kit.

NOTE: The 125148 floor was designed for the initial SE Kawasaki kit introduced in 1979. It can be adapted to the later two versions of the the same kit with moderate effort after which it will be superior to the floor offered in those two kits.

HO Scale Traction Mechanisms Only (No Floors) - $47.50

Mechanism with 26" brass wheels - [125100]**
Mechanism with 30" brass wheels - [125110]
Mechanism with 34" brass wheels - [125120]

**Note: During 2009, all items using 26" wheels, such as 125100, 125141, 125142, and 125210 will transition from brass wheels to nickel silver plated wheels. See the February 1 Trolleyville Times for more information.

SLRV/LRT Track Brake Assembly [SCTC-3] - $4.50 per package of 6 or $1.50 per package of 2.

These assemblies, produced by a suburban Philadelphia firm, more accurately represent the track brake assemblies used on Light Rail Vehicles. They replace the PCC track brakes furnished with the Bowser 1251XX mechanisms and with both the 125147 and 125148 mechanisms. Shown at right is a Bowser truck equipped with both the SCTC-3 Track Brake and NWSL #2634-6 Nickel Silver Wheels.

Brass Bolster (for use with 1251XX mechanisms) [1335] - $4.00 each

This 1.25" brass bolster, shown to the right, is designed for mounting the power truck in models other than Bowser units. These bolsters are notched to clear the gear housing. They have been successfully used by Custom Traxx with the Bowser 1251X0 mechanisms in Suydam, Model Tramway and Fairfield Traction Models brass models and other model vehicles. They are particularly useful in Suydam Models of Pacific Electric 800, 950 and 1000 series cars where the wheelbase of the Bowser unit more closely approximates the prototype. All of these converted cars are regularly operated on the modules of the Southern California Traction Club.

Operational Trolley Poles [1250] - $12.50 each
Bowser Roof Insulators [1251] - $1.50 (2/pkg.)

The well-known Bowser operational trolley pole is back in production with a new contact and stronger springs. The original 3/32" (2.38 mm) base is retained due to customer demand. Each pole still is accompanied by the #1251 roof insulator, washer, spring and 2-56 nut. The black #1251 insulators, shown at right, facilitates conversion of the current Bowser metal trolleys to overhead wire operation and are available separately from Custom Traxx. The new contact/rollers, part 12507, are fully compliant with NMRA Standard S-5, Trolley Power Collection, and are also available separately from Custom Traxx. They were extensively tested by Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club (SCTC) during 2008 and found to be excellent for DCC overhead wire operation. For more information, click here!

Trolley Pole Springs [12502] - $3.00 (6/pkg.)
Trolley Pole Rollers/Collectors [12507] - $3.00 (6/pkg.)

Trolley pole springs are now available from Bowser. These are the springs used on their upgraded #1250 trolley pole now available. These springs are shown at right after being installed on a Miniatures by Eric HT-P2 trolley pole, also available from Custom Traxx.

Also shown on the trolley pole is the new #12507 NMRA Specification S-5 compatible trolley roller/collector that is available on the Bowser 1250 trolley pole. Both the brass roller/collector and the springs were extensively tested in both the DC and DCC operating environments.

 

Custom Traxx

The TS series of resin bodied traction kits will be offered in very limited numbers over the next few years. When the runs are exhausted, they may not be repeated. This methodology will enable us to make many different shells that will be compatible with the Bowser traction mechanism, enabling discerning modelers to acquire and operate some unique vehicles. All the major items that you need to get a completely running car, including appropriate Bowser drives, trolley poles, decals, etc., are available from Custom Traxx at reasonable prices. No need to surf the internet or drive to shops. These kits are intended for experienced traction modelers as minor operations such as drilling holes, parts assembly and minor rewiring may be required. Each kit is assembled when ordered and will not normally be available at model train shows or from other dealers.
 
Boston (ex-Dallas) Double End PCC Kit - [TS16P - $175.00]

The TS16 HO scale kit for the Pullman-built Boston ex-Dallas "Texas Ranger" double end PCC cars, series 3322-3346, will be available about November 15. The first sample production shell, is shown below during testing and evaluation. The kit, only available powered, contains the shell, the Bowser designed, developed and produced pewter floor with the upgraded Bowser 125100 drive with blackened nickel silver wheels, Miniatures by Eric HT-P2 trolley poles, two SCTC-1 trolley pole pivots, Custom Traxx CN-3322 decals and some additional finishing details including resilient wheel and maroon belt line striping decals along with the unique "antler" trolley pole hooks.

Notice to all modelers interested in this car: Due to current economic conditions, there will be limited production of these cars. Those who have made reservations for these cars were notified on October 28, 2009 via email and will be notified in order as soon as the cars arrive. Please inquire before ordering as these cars are being produced individually.

 
Toronto Canadian Light Rail Vehicle (CLRV) - [TS17P - $159.95]

The TS17 HO scale kit consists of a resin body shell, cast by Miniatures by Eric, of the 4000-4100 series CLRVs currently operated in Toronto. As of November 1, 2009, the kit is only available powered. The kit contains a one piece body shell, roof details, side window dividers, front and rear windshields, trolley catcher, four Bowser 1341 sideframe mounts, a complete set of premier CN-4100 decals and the Bowser 125163 pewter floor. The kit is supplied with the upgraded Bowser 125100 mechanism with blackened nickel silver wheels. One Miniatures by Eric Trolley pole along with one SCTC-1 trolley pole base bushing is included. Some modeling skill is required to properly assemble and finish this kit, which is priced at $159.95.

The Bowser 125163 pewter floor, designed for this CLRV shell and the Bowser traction mechanism, is available separately for $5.95. Bowser traction mechanisms are available separately from Custom Traxx. More data on these units are available elsewhere in this catalog.

Note: Applying the decals on the body shell contained in this kit is not for the beginner. Only those modelers well-experienced in the application of decals should attempt applying decals contained in this kit. Modelers may find it easier to mask and paint the red areas due to the difficulties an getting decals to cover the front dasher area.


The above photo is of the TS-17P body shell and drive after painting and lettering prior to installation of the front windshield and rear window.
 
Kansas City Public Service (KCPS) All-Electric PCC Kit - [TS19 - $49.95] / [TS19P- $129.95]

The basic TS19 kit consists of a cast resin body shell of the Kansas City Public Service all-electric PCC cars of the 501-585 and 725-799 series, a brass fender trip bar casting and a set of Custom Traxx KCPS CN-750 decals. The basic, unpowered kit is available at an introductory price of $49.95.

The body shell, provided by Miniatures by Eric, mates to the Bowser 125141 mechanism with floor. The powered version, TS19P, is available at an introductory price of $129.95 and contains the basic kit along with one Bowser 125141 mechanism with floor; one HT-P2 Form 11 Miniatures by Eric trolley pole and one SCTC-1 trolley pole pivot.

Note: The body shell provided with this kit represents cars as operated in Kansas City and should NOT be confused with the ex-Kansas City PCC body shell occasionally available from a suburban Philadelphia, PA firm. That body shell only represents the 40 KCPS cars sold to Philadelphia in 1954 and modified by the Philadelphia Transportation Company.

The TS19 body shell can be modified to represent ex-Kansas City PCC cars operated in Toronto, San Francisco & Tampico. along with the 2240-2250 series of ex-Toronto, ex-Kansas City cars obtained by Philadelphia in the late 1970s.

Shell shown above mounted on the Bowser 125141 mechanism NWSL Nickel Silver wheels and an HT-P2 trolley pole!
The A-line 20040 Flywheel kit can be supplied installed for an additional $10.00!

 
San Francisco (Milano) Peter Witt Streetcar Kit - [TS18B/H - $99.95/TS18P - $149.95]

The basic TS18B and TS18H kits are both unpowered and consist of an HO scale cast one piece resin body shell, cast by Miniatures by Eric, of the ex-Milan Peter Witt Streetcars currently operated in San Francisco. Also provided are brass trolley pole supports and pole hooks, headlights, trolley catchers, four truck sideframes, a pair of Miniatures by Eric HT-P2 trolley poles, a complete set of Custom Traxx CN-1807 decals and a metal floor. No trucks of any type are supplied. The floor provided with the TS18B kit is the 125161 floor designed for the Bowser 125100 traction mechanism, while the floor provided with the TS18H kit is the 125162 floor designed for the Hollywood Foundry BullAnt mechanism. This floor also can be adapted to some older spring belt drives. Both the TS-18B and the TS-18H are $99.95.

The TS18P kit consists of the basic TS18B kit with the Bowser 125100 Mechanism provided. The retail price of the TS- 18P kit is $149.95.

In the top/first photo are examples of the kits after assembly, painting and lettering. The 1818 (green) is equipped with the 125161 floor and Bowser 125100 Drive, which is shown in the second photo. The 1807 (orange) is equipped with the BullAnt drive. The BullAnt drive kit contains both power and trailing trucks, Mashima motor and mount along with drive line and other hardware. Shown in the third photo is the 125162 floor with the BullAnt in-line installed.

The bottom photo shows the complete Muni "Milano" Peter Witt Car BullAnt In-line kit. As these kits are not intended for beginners, modeling skill is required to properly assemble them.

Both Bowser manufactured floors, 125161 and 125162, designed for the TS18 shell, are available separately at $5.95 each. Bowser traction mechanisms are also available separately from Custom Traxx. More data on these units are available elsewhere in this catalog.

The 125161 floor with Bowser 125100 unit shown above has had the A-line 20040 flywheel kit installed. This much desired performance enhancement can be installed in TS18P kits for an additional $10.00.

NOTE: At this time, the BullAnt in-line power kit must be obtained directly from Hollywood Foundry.

 
HO scale metal floors for selected traction kits - $5.95 each

Custom Traxx has available metal floors for specific models with resin shells listed. These floors can also be used for scratchbuilding projects:

#125160 - For the Transit Classics San Francisco Muni Class K/L model - Pewter floor designed for the BullAnt mechanism to fit the existing shell. Adds 1.7 ounces of weight to the model.
#125161 - For the Custom Traxx/Miniatures by Eric San Francisco "Milano" Peter Witt* model - Pewter floor designed for the Bowser mechanism to fit the existing shell. Adds 1.8 ounces of weight to the model.
#125162 - For the Custom Traxx/Miniatures by Eric San Francisco "Milano" Peter Witt model - Aluminum Floor designed for the BullAnt mechanism to fit the existing shell.
#125163 - For the Custom Traxx/Miniatures by Eric Canadian Light Rail Vehicle* model - Pewter floor designed for the Bowser mechanism with 25' 0" truck center-to-center wheelbase. Adds 2.2 ounces of weight to the model.
#125164 - For the IHP Illinois Terminal 450-457 series PCC model - Pewter floor designed for the Bowser mechanism with 22' 11" truck center-to-center distance. Adds 2.1 ounces of weight to the model. Click here for photo.
#125165 - For the IHP Shaker Heights 71-95 series PCC model - Pewter floor designed for the Bowser mechanism with 25' 1 1/2" truck center-to-center wheelbase. Adds 2.1 ounces of weight to the model. Click here for photo.
#125166 - For the Custom Traxx/Miniatures by Eric Boston (ex-Dallas) double-end PCC* model - Pewter floor designed for the Bowser mechanism with 22' 9" truck center-to-center wheelbase. Adds 1.1 ounces of weight to the model.

* This floor is standard equipment with these models.

HO scale Trolley Pole Pivot Bushing [SCTC-1] - $1.50 per pair

Designed for those modelers operating traction models using powered overhead wires. The Southern California Traction Club has discovered that the most reliable overhead operation results when trolley poles are mounted in a pivot base. Custom Traxx has fabricated the pole pivots similar to those formerly imported by Dr S. Soho and Fairfield and more recently by MTS Imports. The club has also developed a method of converting Bowser and Suydam pole bases to use these pivot bases replacing the screw base. This allows poles to be removed from cars for repairs without having to disassemble the car (a must for overhead operation). Refer to the schoolhouse in www.trolleyville.com for the conversion process.

HO scale Trolley Pole Pivot Bushing Insulator [SCTC-2] - $1.25 per pair

Specially made for those modelers operating using powered overhead wires. Part SCTC-1 fits inside this insulator when mounted in a brass or other metal car. The photograph to the right shows three SCTC-2, one of which has the SCTC-1 inserted within.

HO scale Operational Automatic Traction Coupler [SCTC-40] - $10.00/ 2 pair

Custom Traxx periodically acquires stock of these couplers via a special manufacturing run. They are very popular as all of our previous runs have been exhausted quickly. Please check with us via email or phone prior to ordering to ensure availability. These couplers are working copies of Tomlinson couplers as used on many multiple unit streetcars, interurbans and subway-elevated cars. They snap together and lock and pull apart for uncoupling. No draft gear is supplied as most modelers fabricate their own draft gear for best operation. One method is described in the Trolleyville Schoolhouse. The Southern California Traction Club uses these on all equipment requiring automatic couplers.

Note: For best operation, it is important to ensure that the working parts of these couplers stay lubricated. A drop of plastic compatible lubricant on the coupling levers tends to avoid premature breakage.

Trolley Pole Platforms - [SCTC-41/SCTC-42] - $9.95 each

In the 1940's, the Pacific Electric began using diesel locomotives. Because the highway crossing signals were activated by trolley poles, trolley poles had to be installed on the diesels until the crossing actuators were changed. Among the diesels equipped with trolley poles were Baldwin AS-616, DRS-6-6-15, VO-660, VO-1000, EMD SW-1 & TR-6 and General Electric 44 tonners. Produced by Rio Grande Models from etched brass with extremely fine detail, both the small (SCTC-41) and large (SCTC-42) trolley pole bases are available.

Pewter Sideframes for Bowser HO scale mechanisms [13-13, 13-14, 13-15, 13-16] - $5.50 for four

Four additional side frames are now available for the new Bowser mechanisms. Because of dissimilar materials between the pewter side frame and the two engineering plastic mounts, these side frames work best when the mounting holes are drilled out slightly. Then use ACC to affix them directly to the brass pick-up plate (Bowser part #1262) using the plastic mounts as guides for positioning. See photograph below:

#13-13 - St. Louis 61A - Used for Pacific Electric 950-999 series cars among others. See example to the right.
.#13-14 - St. Louis 23B - Used for Pacific Electric 257 and 800 series cars. See example to the right.
#13-15 - Brill 27-MCB-3X - Used for Pacific Electric 1000 and 1001 series cars. See example to the right
.
.#13-16 - Baldwin 78-30 (This side frame contains brake release springs on one end. There is a right and left casting and they are sold in pairs.)

Sideframe Mounts for Bowser Traction Mechanisms [1341] - $2.00 (4/pkg.)

These mounts, shown directly below, have been made available for those modelers who wish to mount brass or resin cast sideframes to Bowser 1251XX traction mechanisms. These cast parts allow the modeler to attach a mount to the car and then glue the sideframe to the mount. This allows perfect alignment of the sideframe to the axles and wheels.

The first step is to attach the spacer to the Bowser truck over the two lugs as shown as the top right photo. Some adhesive may be necessary to keep the spacer on the truck. Then position the sideframe on the space, ensuring that the journals on the sideframes line up with the axles as shown in the bottom right photo.

Occasionally, due to the nature of castings, the mounting holes, shown above, may not be drilled out completely. Simply use a #52 drill to clean them out.

Special High Floor Bolsters for Bowser Traction Mechanisms [1305] - $1.00 (1/pkg.) - NEW!!!!!

These mounts, shown directly below, have been made available for those modelers who wish to use the Bowser 125120 with 34"wheels to power high-floor cars such as subway cars. These bolsters are designed to be mounted on the top of 1/8" thick floors. Shown below left is the Bowser 1305 high floor bolster and below right the stock 1264 bolster. These bolsters have been used for subway car projects for MTS imports, Inc and Island Model Works.

 

Miniatures by Eric

HO scale Pacific Electric Railway Rename Trolley Poles [HTP1]- $29.95 per pair*

These trolley poles have pole bases that represent the Greenamyer pneumatic poles bases used on the Pacific Electric and are made for those modelers operating traction models using powered overhead wires. These trolley poles have excellent upward spring pressure and have been tested by Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club. Specially designed for Suydam, Cars Works and other HO scale Pacific Electric models requiring the pneumatic trolley pole bases. All trolley poles are sold with HTC4 trolley shoes. Trolley wheels are available separately (See item HTC3 below).
*For a pair of poles plus two brass pivots (SCTC-1) and two roof insulators (SCTC-2), order HTP1s at $32.00 per pair.

HO scale PCC Form 11 Trolley Pole [HTP2] - $29.95 per pair*

These trolley poles have bases that represent the United Standard Form 11 trolley pole bases used by PCC cars, trolley buses and current heritage trolley cars. These trolley poles were designed specifically for those modelers operating traction models using powered overhead wires. Can be used on the Bowser PCC and other brass PCC models. These trolley poles have excellent upward spring pressure and have been tested been tested by Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club. All trolley poles are sold with HTC4 trolley shoes. Trolley wheels are available separately (See Item HTC3 below).
*For a pair of poles plus two brass pivots (SCTC-1) and two plastic roof insulators (SCTC-2), order HTP2s at $32.00 per pair.

HO scale PCC Form 1 Trolley Pole [HTP3] - $29.95 per pair*

These trolley poles have pole bases that represent the United Standard Form 1 trolley pole bases used by many early cars. These trolley poles were designed specifically for those modelers operating traction models using powered overhead wires. These trolley poles have excellent upward spring pressure and have been tested been tested by Custom Traxx and the Southern California Traction Club. All trolley poles are equipped with trolley shoes, except that the pole shown at right is equipped with the HTC3 trolley wheel. Trolley shoes are available separately (See Item HTC4 below).
*For a pair of trolley poles plus two brass pivots (SCTC-1) and two plastic roof insulators (SCTC-2), order HTP3s at $32.00 per pair.

HO scale Trolley Wheels [HTC3] - $5.00 per half dozen (6)

Since all Miniatures by Eric trolley poles are currently equipped with trolley shoes, packages of six trolley wheel collectors are available. These trolley wheel collectors are castings which depict the harp and the trolley rope attachment. They usually require some drilling to attach to the various diameter trolley poles used in modeling.

HO scale Trolley Shoes [HTC4] - $5.00 per half dozen (6)

These are the same trolley shoes with which all Miniatures by Eric trolley poles are currently equipped. These trolley shoe collectors are castings which depict the harp and the trolley rope attachment. They usually require some drilling to attach to the various diameter trolley poles used in modeling.

O scale Trolley Poles [OTP1/OTP3] - $34.95 per pair

Currently available in two styles similar to the HO scale poles described above. Designed for those modelers operating O scale traction models using powered overhead wires. Model OTP1, shown below left, is designed for Pacific Electric models requiring the pneumatic trolley pole bases. Model OTP3, shown below right, is a simulated Form 11 base as used on PCC and current heritage trolley cars. Other pole bases are in development. Many modelers who have examined these poles have stated that these appear to be the best operational poles ever available.

 

ORR Street Railway Track (HO Scale)

This line of HO scale street railway track, formerly available from Richard Orr of Omaha, Nebraska until 2003, is exclusively available from Custom Traxx. All items, except 2300 series nickel silver girder rail are cast from White Tombasil in Pinedale, CA. ORR Track, turnouts and crossings were designed to be used with powered overhead wire as the rails were NOT insulated. However, many users, including the East Penn Traction Club, have modified these turnouts for the two-rail environment. ORR Track items can be used with DC or DCC.

Girder Rail and Girder Rail Curving Tool

HO Girder Rail in meter lengths or 39.37 inches long (286 scale ft)

4 pieces [2314] - $14.95*

17 pieces [2327] - $54.95*

 
Prototype Girder Rail Cross Section
Orr Girder Rail Cross Section

As you can see from the above illustrations, prototype girder rail would not be capable of supporting a model train in smaller scales so the compromised cross section to the right must be used in HO scale. In O scale and larger scales, prototypical girder rail has been produced from time to time.

*As of August 1st, 2009, Orr Rail is now only available in meter lengths and is imported from Sweden. The former 2304 and 2317 yard-length bundles have been replaced by the new meter-length 2314 and 2327 bundles. We regret that the prices have had to be changed due to increased shipping costs and currency exchange rates. Buyers are urged to check our latest on-line catalog immediately before ordering as prices will have to be adjusted as our costs change.

Custom Traxx recommends that Orr Track users visit the Trolleyville Schoolhouse and review lessons 2, 3, 4 and 5 in Room 2 prior to installing Orr Track for the first time. The recommended method of installation requires use of printed circuit ties which are available from Clover House, P.O. Box 62, Sebastopol, CA 97473-0062, phone 707-823-7301 (fax orders preferred). Custom Traxx can supply limited numbers of printed circuit track ties [PC1] at $.50 each to the modeler in conjunction with Orr Track orders. Each strip of printed circuit board is 12" or 87 scale feet in length and will make ten 8 ft or nine 9 ft ties. An example is shown below.

For securing special work and rails at table edges and module interfaces, Custom Traxx has made special Module Interface Ties available to modelers. These printed circuit ties are designed for applications where rails must be secured where no movement can be tolerated. These ties are also provided by Clover House. Custom Traxx can supply limited numbers of module interface ties [PC2] at $1.00 each to the modeler in conjunction with Orr Track orders. Each strip of printed circuit board is 12" or 87 scale feet in length and will make ten 8 ft or nine 9 ft ties. An example is shown below.

Girder Rail Curving Tool [2350] - $32.00

Because of the nonsymmetrical nature of the simulated girder rail, this tool must be used to correctly bend the rail into sharp radius curves. Detailed instructions for assembly and use are provided with the tool.

Single Point Girder Rail Turnouts (see illustrations below, right)

Right Turnout, with frog [2400] - $14.95

Wye Turnout, with frog [2402] - $13.95

Left Hand Turnout, with frog [2403] - $14.95

The diverging portion of the right and left turnouts and both legs of the wye turnout are of 6 1/8" radius.
Experienced modelers may request unassembled turnouts at the following prices: 2400U-$10.00; 2402U-$9.00, 2403U-$10.00.

Single Point Point-Mate Assemblies - $12.95 (See illustrations below, right)

These turnouts lack frogs and have a slightly larger radius in the diverging portion

Right Point-Mate Assembly [2401]

Left Point-Mate Assembly [2404]

Experienced modelers may request unassembled point-mate assemblies (2401U, 2404U) at $8.00 each!
Curved Girder Rail Crossings - $9.95 (See illustrations below, right)
Right Curved Crossing [2520]

This crossing consists of a section of 6 1/8 radius track crossing a section of straight track and is normally used adjacent to a 2400 turnout in a normal double track city street setting.

Left Curved Crossing [2523]

This crossing consists of a section of 6 1/8 radius track crossing a section of straight track and is normally used adjacent to a 2403 turnout in a normal double track city street setting.

Straight Girder Rail Crossings - $9.95 (See illustrations below, right)

30 degree crossing [2530]

45 degree crossing [2545]

60 degree crossing [2560]

75 degree crossing [2575]

90 degree crossing [2590]

To Ordering Page [Catalog Section VI]

2-2010 1-20-10 TV