LIONEL 726-63 Center Wheel Tire Nickels

( Brand: Lionel ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 726-63 ), ( Part Type: Wheel Tire ), ( Age Level: 17 Years Up )

Review LIONEL Wheel Nickel Tire

The **Lionel 726-63 Center Wheel Tire 10** is a meticulously crafted, high-quality rubber tire designed specifically for Lionel s classic O gauge model trains, offering both authenticity and durability for enthusiasts seeking a seamless, immersive experience. This tire is engineered to fit perfectly onto the **center wheel** of Lionel s vintage-style locomotives, ensuring smooth, realistic movement that captures the charm of early 20th-century railroading. Constructed from a dense, resilient rubber compound, it provides excellent traction and wear resistance, allowing your train to glide effortlessly along the track while maintaining its original aesthetic appeal. The tire s **10-inch diameter** is ideal for larger O gauge models, including iconic steam locomotives, diesel units, and passenger cars, delivering a balanced blend of performance and historical accuracy. Its smooth, slightly textured surface reduces noise and vibration, enhancing the quiet, fluid motion that defines Lionel s legendary train sets. Whether you re restoring a prized vintage locomotive or upgrading a modern O gauge layout, this tire ensures a polished, professional finish that elevates the realism of your collection. Perfect for both hobbyists and collectors, the **726-63 Center Wheel Tire 10** is a must-have accessory for achieving that perfect, museum-quality look and feel in your model railway.

**Pros and Cons of buying a Lionel 726-63 Center Wheel Tire (10) for Model Trains**

The Lionel 726-63 is a classic center wheel tire designed for O gauge (O scale) model trains, particularly those built in the 1950s and 1960s. Below is a detailed breakdown of its advantages and limitations.

### **Pros**

1. **Authentic Fit for Vintage Trains** This tire is specifically engineered to match the wheel profile of older Lionel O gauge locomotives, ensuring proper alignment and realistic operation. It is a direct replacement for many pre-1970s models, including the 600, 620, and 630 series engines.

2. **Durability** Lionel parts are known for their robustness, and the 726-63 tire is no exception. It is made from high-quality rubber, which resists wear over time, especially when paired with compatible wheels and axles.

3. **Compatibility with Original Mechanisms** Unlike modern tires that may require adjustments, the 726-63 fits seamlessly with the original Lionel drive systems, including the center wheel mechanism. This makes it ideal for restorers looking to preserve the authenticity of their trains.

4. **Easy Installation** The tire is designed to snap or press-fit onto the wheel hub without requiring specialized tools. This makes it accessible for hobbyists of varying skill levels.

5. **Aesthetic Accuracy** The tread pattern and overall design closely resemble the original tires found on vintage Lionel locomotives, enhancing the train s historical authenticity.

6. **Availability of Replacement Parts** Lionel still produces many classic parts, and the 726-63 is widely available through authorized dealers, eBay, and specialty model train stores. This ensures that finding replacements is straightforward.

7. **Compatibility with Aftermarket Upgrades** While primarily designed for original Lionel setups, the 726-63 can sometimes be adapted for modern wheels or axles with minimal modifications, though this is not always recommended for optimal performance.

### **Cons**

1. **Limited Modern Compatibility** This tire is not designed for newer Lionel O gauge models or aftermarket wheels that feature different profiles (e.g., wider or flanged wheels). Attempting to use it on incompatible wheels may lead to poor tracking or premature wear.

2. **Potential for Wear Over Time** While durable, the rubber compound may degrade faster if the train is operated frequently or on rough track surfaces. This can lead to uneven tread wear or separation from the wheel.

3. **Size Constraints** The 726-63 is specifically sized for O gauge trains. If you operate other scales (e.g., G, HO, or N), this tire will not be useful, limiting its versatility.

4. **Cost Relative to Modern Alternatives** Compared to contemporary tires or generic replacements, the Lionel 726-63 may be slightly more expensive, though the price is justified by its authenticity and quality.

5. **Maintenance Requirements** Like all rubber tires, it may require occasional cleaning to remove dirt or track residue, which can accelerate wear if not properly maintained.

6. **Potential for Misalignment** If the wheel or axle is damaged or improperly aligned, the tire may not seat correctly, leading to poor performance or noise during operation.

7. **Limited Availability of Spare Parts** While the tire itself is easy to find, some associated components (e.g., specific axles or wheel sets) may become harder to source if the train is very old or rare.

### **Conclusion**

The Lionel 726-63 center wheel tire is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who prioritize authenticity, durability, and compatibility with vintage O gauge locomotives. Its strengths lie in its precise fit for classic Lionel models, ease of installation, and long-term reliability. However, it is not a universal solution its limitations include incompatibility with modern wheels, potential wear issues, and a lack of versatility across different scales.

If you own a pre-1970s Lionel train and seek to restore or maintain its original appearance and function, the 726-63 is a highly recommended part. For those operating newer or aftermarket trains, alternative tires may be more suitable.

### **Recommendation**

- You are restoring or maintaining a vintage Lionel O gauge locomotive (e.g., 600, 620, or 630 series).

- You value historical accuracy and want parts that match the original specifications.

- You are willing to invest in high-quality, long-lasting components for your collection.

- You operate modern or aftermarket O gauge trains with different wheel profiles.

- You need a tire for a different scale (e.g., G, HO, or N).

- You are looking for a budget-friendly, off-the-shelf replacement that isn t scale-specific.

For best results, pair this tire with compatible wheels and axles, and store your train properly when not in use to extend the life of the rubber. If you encounter any fitment issues, consult Lionel s customer support or a model train specialist for guidance.

Details:

Operational Status: Functional This part is in workable condition. Manufacturer: Lionel. Variation: Original. The 726-63 eccentric wheel and nickel tire was first used on the 1946 version of Lionel 726 Berkshire locomotive.

Economy Shipping. Condition may vary. Model Number: 726-63. This listing is for ten 10 units of this product.

Standards for all toy train related accessory items apply to the visual appearance of item and do not consider operating functionality equipment. Lionel used these same wheels on production of its Berkshire locomotives during the 1947-49 period even though frame design had changed. We'll do our absolute best to make you happy. Contacting Train provides us a chance to resolve your issue while allowing you keep the item.

See picture for more details.

part #: 72663 prices

• $6.00-$70.00

specifications oscaletraini:

• brand: Lionel
• mpn: 726-63
• part type: Wheel Tire
• age level: 17 Years Up

payments oscaletraini:

• credit card: Mastercard
• other
• wallet: Paypal

seller oscaletraini:

• city: Flowery Branch, Georgia
• rating: 99.8%
• # reviews: 732565

returns oscaletraini:

• time: 30 Days
• method: Money back
• policy: Returns Accepted
• paid by: Seller

offer oscaletraini:

• quantity: 1
• sold: 0
• started: February 5, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock

shipping oscaletraini:

• type: Fixed
• service: Economy, Standard
• transit: 4-8 Days
• cost: $10.14
• class: Economy, Standard

general oscaletraini:

• Railroads Trains > Parts Accessories > Parts Spares
• condition: Used

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