Hierarchy of Bachman Engines

[Anonymous]

Can someone point me in the direction of the hierarchy of the Bachman line of engines? I have an opportunity to purchase a Big Hauler set for under $150, is this a good deal? I am hoping to use it outdoors, temporarily each each during my Christmas Light display. Please be gentle with responses, I am a brand newbie!

My Light Display is at www.welovechristmaslights.com

Jeff

[Curmudgeon]

What vintage?

Sam's Club had them for $135 or so.
You need to know vintage.
Seriously.
You do not want Versions 1-4.
Here's how to identify:

How to identify 4-6-0's in Large Scale:

If a Battery Big Hauler, Ver. 1.
If you can turn the wheels by hand (and hear the motor turning), Ver 2.
If the bottom is smooth as a baby's hindquarters, and you can't turn the wheels, Version 3.
If it has a single large hump on the bottom, Version 4.
If it has a small hump and a lube port plug, Version 5, and this is the same chassis mechanically as the Anniversary.


TOC

[Anonymous]

Well it is definitely not the battery version. Let's hope it is a version 5. I'll see in about a week.

[Ray Dunakin]

Judging by price and features, it looks to me like the "Spectrum" locos are Bachmann's top-of-the-line; and the "Anniversary" models are maybe a notch below that. Is this correct?

[Curmudgeon]

Yes, altho not in detail.
More of an adherence to scale.
The 4-6-0's work wonderfully well with existing rolling stock.

TOC

[Anonymous]

Jeff, I enjoyed your Let It Snow video clip on your link!

On the topic of buying trains, I always deal with real train shops, many of which are advertised in Garden Railways, which can provide you with a receipt. I have found that this is important when it comes to having repairs made under the factory warranty.

Regards,


Bill
South Jersey

[Anonymous]

Thanks Bill,

Hoping that this works out alright. Thinking now maybe I should have just dealt with Caboose Hobbies out of Denver for $60 more. I used to be stationed there in Denver and loved just going down to Caboose to walk around for hours. Their selection of brass HO engines was spectacular.

Jeff