control for two Bachmann 4-6-0's

[Lloyd2]

This question was probably covered years ago, but I don't know where to turn.  I recently purchased a second battery powered Bachmann 4-6-0.  How can I operate them independently of each other?   Any help will be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance.

[kstrong]

I'm going to make the assumption that you're referring to the original battery R/C 4-6-0 with the plastic drivers and small black controller. If one of your locos is numbered "7" and the second "9," then they already run on different frequencies (27 mHz and 49 mHz respectively) and will run independently of each other. If they're both #7 or #9, then you're not going to run them independently. The same transmitter will control both locos the same.

The most obvious solution would be to replace the R/C in at least one of them with one of the myriad commercial products on the market. It would solve your problem, but quite frankly I wouldn't bother with these particular locomotives. Running them independently isn't so difficult as keeping them running in the first place. The gearing is horrific, noisy, and prone to slipping and stripping. (There's a definite reason Bachmann has gone through 5 distinct drive trains on these locomotives.) The controllers--like many things in the 27mHz range--is prone to interference that launches the loco back and forth suddenly, which only exacerbates the gear problems. The rubber traction tire on the drivers will also stretch and break in short order, leaving you with a rather deep groove in one of the drivers. I'd keep the locos as they are, and let the neighborhood kids run them if they come over. When the locos fall apart, just toss 'em in the recycle bin. (The details are so coarse as to not warrant saving for the scrap box.)

Of course, I say all this while having a 4-6-0 that still operates with the original drive train. It's usual job was as a helper on the steep 6% grade on my dad's railroad. I did replace the wheels with metal ones, and have collected the gears from other defunct 4-6-0s to keep this one running, so with a bit of work and the proper care, they can be made to run halfway decently. (It actually hasn't run in quite some time, as the diesels now handle the helper district.)

This probably isn't the answer you were hoping to get, but in terms of operational success stories, this locomotive was decidedly not a shining example. The current version, called the "Anniversary" or "Annie" is far, far superior in every respect, and can usually be found for around $150. It's not R/C, so you'll have the cost of adding that, but you'll end up with a locomotive that can run independently of the other, and--more importantly--run in the first place.

Later,

K

[dwbeckett]

Kevin, thanks  for the rundown on this engine It's one I have though about getting as a starter R/C. BUT for now I will just keep running DC track power/control.

Dave 

[Greg Elmassian]

There are tons of ways to go independent control on track power.

Before I recommend anything, you need to tell me your budget for all the electronics, and if you want sound (sound costs more and also has different price/performance goals).

One of the least expensive ways is using the equipment from Remote Control Systems (google them).

Somewhere in the middle is track powered DCC.

There are also systems that are inexpensive if no sound, but more expensive than DCC if you want sound, like the Revolution TE.

If you want advice from "experts"  you have to sort of "bound" the problem with want you want.

So, please elaborate on what you want in terms of function and sound.

Regards, Greg

[Lloyd2]

 Thank you all for your help.  The two locomotives are both battery powered and run on plastic track.  They both are numbered 7.  Since I want to get by as cheaply as possible, so I'm not looking for anything beyond what Bachmann supplies with the G gauge train set.  Looks like I will have to go hunting for a number 9, right after I google Remote Control Systems.  Thanks for all the great advice.  You folks are terrific! - Lloyd

[Jor-el]

Greetings Lloyd2;

I have three of the Bachman "Old Timers" two of which are the number 7 variety, and one is the number 9.  I have had one of them converted to an upgraded drive system by Barry's Big Trains.  What a difference it makes: metal wheels, equalized front truck, can type motor and improved drive mechanism.  I run my railroad, the CGJ&S on the Airwire system with Phoenix sound, and the locos perform flawlessly. I switched the boiler and cab one of the No. 7's with the No. 9, and use the two together for a local mixed, and they do ok.  I plan to convert them in the future, but the one converted is a joy to operate.  Good luck, nothing in this hobby is really that cheap to do, but it's all good.

Jor-el