K-Line Boston & Albany Tank Engine with TMCC No Smoke

[Tower49]

Hey guys

Its been a while.

I recently purchaed a new (NOS) K-Line 6-6-4T B&A suburban tank engine w/TMCC from Eastern Depot. I have other (original) K-Line engines in my collection but were never really crazy about them, because they seem so "fragile", unlike a Williams, Lionel or even a Rail King. But I always loved this Tank Engine and thought I'd take a chance. Not sure that was the right move......

When I got it, it was sure beautiful, but again, it felt very delicate. The smoke unit fan blades sounded like were hitting something, and the heating element was cold (hence no smoke). The chugger is weird because sound like its going 90 mph when the engine is barely moving.   (2 chugs per revolution according to the book)

Anyway, I sent it back to Eastern Depot for another one. I only hope they give me another one rather than try to "fix" the one I got.

$4 bills is alot for an engine that doesn't work 100%.

I know these older K-Lines are a coin toss, but has anyone ever had similar experirnces with smoke issues? I have a K-Line Virginian Train Master whose smoke unit stopped working, but haven't sent it to Brasseur's yet because I don't have $100 laying around to fix it.

Like to hear your comments