One of the downsides to the Hustler used in the Little Scoots was its direct belt drive mechanism. (below). This direct drive unit produced train speeds measured in hundreds of miles per hour.

     Although the motor shaft was smaller than the axles which it powered, the Hustler, and any other similarly equipped Athearn locomotive, was impossibly fast. A variety of approaches were tried to slow this unit down to a realistic pace. For a period of time, Athearn tried an idler pulley, which introduced more friction into the mechanism. But this was not successful.

     Other manufacturers, such as Ernst, produced replacement gears; Ernst is apparently no longer in production. Most successful was this mechanism upgrade manufactured by NorthWest Short Line. (below)

     The NorthWest Short Line mechanism is a can motor with reduction gears driving both axles. In addition to the improved performance which resulted from the gear reduction, this unit has a relatively relatively low profile, allowing for interior details to be installed inside the locomotive's cab or streetcar ‘s interior. The NWSL unit can be hard to obtain, but in this application, it offers a significant improvement.

     You may also find similar geared Hustler mechanisms which were used in both Lionel and Cox units. These two companies no longer are in HO production.

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