Is it neccessary to use these? Do some of you run without them? Ron
If you want to pull a decent size train, most locomotives need them.
Check the ads in Model Railroader for Bullfrog Snot traction tires (or go to www.bullfrogsnot.com). I have not tried it on N scale, but hear that HO guys like it. Also on my Lionel 027 MPC diesels with rubber traction tires, I use a little ACC (Super Glue) to secure loose traction tires. Ideally, replacing worn traction tires is preferred, but these are sometimes not available. I note that even Bachmann parts is out of N scale traction tires. Frankly, I prefer N diesels with plain wheels and no traction tires. However if you like steam, it is hard to have enough weight to operate without traction tires, so most N steam locos have them.