How rugged are Athearn hex drive shafts?

[lyled1117]

The question falls into an opinion category I suppose, but how durable are the hex drive shafts from Athearn?  I am re-motoring some P2K e-units with Kato motors and will need to use hex drive shafts, and Athearn's work out to be the right length. The 1.6" ones to be exact. The concern I have is two-fold. There is a LOT of weight to the e-unit, and Athearn's shaft have a narrowed neck right at the t-bar. I'm concerned that the thin section of the shaft might not hold up. The trucks are well lubed and free rolling, and that might be the real source of trouble. If so I would seem to have things covered. I could reduce the weight. The weight could simply be removed, or I could reduce it by cutting it in a smaller piece. So...  any chance someone's done similar and might have some instincts on these?

Lyle Dowell

[icghogger]

I would say the weight is not an issue if the mechanism is free and without any binds. With gears meshing properly, axles free in their bearing surfaces and all mating surfaces properly lubricated, you should have no problem with the hex shafts.