What wheels are used?
Although in the past a variety of wheels from different sources have been available, most have disappeared. We recommend that you stick to the Society's own wheels where possible. The Intermediate wheels are to the internationally recognised NMRA RP25 Code 79 standard. The Fine wheels are to the Society's own Fine standards.
The current range of Intermediate wheels is aimed at providing a basic offering in all the main sizes likely to be required. The Fine range, which has evolved over a much longer period, not only covers such sizes and more, but offers prototypically accurate alternatives, such as a different number of spokes for different prototypes.
In the past, Romford wheels proved popular due to the square axle end which greatly simplified the process of quartering driving wheels. For this reason square axle ends have been incorporated in the design of the Society's Intermediate wheels. The Society's Fine wheel currently still need round axle ends, but if you want simpler quartering one member provides a service converting them to square ends, for a modest fee.
You'll usually need appropriate brass bearings for your wheels. Slaters (Society SL4) pin point bearings are the most useful for wagons, Kean Maygib KM6 for coach bogies, KM22 inside bearings for inside use on 1.5mm axles, and Branchlines 1/8" short top hat (straw hat) for steam driving wheels; all except the Branchlines bearings are available from the Society.
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