I thought I'd make a separate thread to show off my new weights. First, I read several lengthy threads at MRH regarding opposing views on over-weighting rolling stock and decided slightly over-weighting my rolling stock will likely suit my layout/operating style best. MRH's Joe Fugate makes the operational and fun-factor argument for over-weight cars and I tend to agree.
I generally followed NMRA's 20.1 recommended practices, which is 0.5 oz. + 0.15 oz. for each inch in length, and slightly over-weighted my cars by rounding-up when my 1/4-oz. weight-increments exceeded the spec. For easy reference:
• NMRA 20.1
• TrainSpotted.com weight-calculator.
I've weighted a few Railbox cars so far and I really like how they run. I purchased zinc-coated iron automotive tire-balancing weights off eBay: 9-pound box for $20 including shipping. Seller states measurements are: 0.622" x 0.744" which equals approximately 15.8mm x 18.9mm. As you can see, they fit both my boxcars and my gondolas, but just barely:
• Boxcars: 1/4-oz. zinc-coated iron automotive tire-balancing weights (eBay).
https://studio460.com/images/zinc1.jpg
https://studio460.com/images/zinc2.jpg
https://studio460.com/images/zinc3.jpg
https://studio460.com/images/zinc4.jpg
• Containers/trash-container loads:
Quoting from the other thread, bicknell recommended these narrower, 12mm-wide motorcycle weights:
Quite a bit pricer, and fewer suppliers to choose from, but these could possibly be a good fit for my trash-container loads and of course better for smaller rolling stock.
• Tank cars:
For tank cars, I found that tungsten putty is most commonly recommended; though, I'm not quite ready to remove all the delicate ladders on my 25+ Athearn tank cars just yet.
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