Opinions on Williams scale Hudson locos

[Flintlock76]

smokey1

First do not buy direct from Bachmann

He couldn't get one from Bachmann anyway, the only thing showing in steam in Bachmann's on-line catalog is the 4-6-0 steamer.  

Williams line is nowhere what it was since Bachmann took it on.

Jerry Williams must be turning in his grave at about 1500 RPM.

[smokey1]

First do not buy direct from Bachmann go to trainworld or Charlesroe.com I have two Williams steam engines. one is the brass version ( it is the Hudson I have ) I had to send my other one to be repaired as it had a bad gear in it. but has been a champ ever since, the previous owner didn't tell ( wasn't eBay) and disappear once I mentioned it. But I love both. By the way, mine are southern versions. 

[NYVTRR]

Thanks for the info everyone.  Would like the modern 700 but its out of my price range, thats why I'm looking at the Williams, can have one at a more reasonable price

[trainguy2]

I have owned the williams reproduction  ( Not by Bachman ) for at least 25 yrs. It's an amazing engine. It has the chuff and the read glowing fire box feature. It" quiet, smooth running and powerful. It will run on  031 track, but does look ridiculous with the over hang, I run mine on 054 and it looks great. Hope that helps.

[Flintlock76]

I don't think I can be much help, but what I know about the Williams Hudsons comes from a 2012 "Williams by Bachmann" catalog.

The Williams Scale Hudsons need a minimum 42" radius curve.  As far as the Williams line is concerned I own several of their standard product locomotives and have found them to be super-reliable runners, well-built and darn near bulletproof in fact. 

Hope this helps a bit.

[emdmike]

Cant speak to the Williams Hudsons, but the Lionel 18005 NYC 1-700e reissue will go around 042 min curve with the semi scale pilot wheels installed.  Its hands down better looking than any of the Williams versions in my opinion.  They can be had under 600 with some smart shopping on ebay.  No major issues other than the sound is very dated in them, but that is easilly upgraded.  

[NYVTRR]

What are members? opinion of the Williams scale hudsons such as the 773, 5205, 5207 etc.  Were there any issues with them?  Some one mentioned that there were issues with the cord from the loco to the tender.  Will they run on 031 or do they have to have wider radius turns? 

Thanks

Bruce