I'll keep that in mind. I just ordered another 4 spare tires recommended by Len above. If they don't last, I can follow through on your suggestion.
Thank you both.

Len,
Fast forward to today. I ordered the traction tires that you suggested. I had a train club friend put them on. In sparingly using the engine during this roughly six month time frame, one tire broke. My friend came to replace it. The question is, is this going to be an ongoing problem? Just in case, I am going to lay in a supply of tires.
Thanks for your help.
Fred

Len,
I had a friend come over to look at the Alco engine and traction tires. He said that between the traction tires and the wheels, there were different sizes. Some of the tires were wider than the truck wheels. He made sure all was right with the unit and ran it. He said that the tires would need to "wear in." So I will use it and hope for the best.
Regards, Fred

Len,
Thanks. I used a flat blade screw driver. I slowly worked it around. I don't know if that will be any easier. I also don't know that I will ever do that again.
Fred

Len and JP,
I received the traction tires you told me about and manages to get them on. I have never done this before and am not a real handy guy.
Well long story short, I got the rear 4 on easily, because they made the truck assembly simple wit a bracket held on by one screw. But of course the front was not the same way. I wrestled with 3 of the 4 and got them on. The last one had to be the most difficult. I think what is either the brake assembly or the sand nozzle was positioned too close. I tried gently prying it away, because knowing me, I stopped for fear of breaking it off. After more sweat, I finally got it on. All is well. Thanks for your help.
Fred

Len,
I appreciate your help since I know little to nothing about this hobby. I do live in an over 55 community that has a train club. We do have some very knowledgeable people in the group though. So I can get referrals and help.
Thanks again,
Fred

Len,
Thanks for the info. I ordered from Trainz. Let's see how it goes.
I wonder why Lionel and MTH dealers don't know this?

I'd be happy if Bachmann supported its trains by having the replacement parts on hand. How can a company not support it's product?

I don;t understand why Bachmann would not have replacement parts for it's products. I recently bought a gently used but fairly old Alco PA-1 and need new traction tires for it. Can anyone help me out?