Does anyone know if any train manufacturers sell/plan to sell, train locos, with battery power and RC built-in?
Seems like a natural for a company like Aristo/Crest.
I'd love to be able to buy an Aristo steam loco/RC package, (like the RTF Electric Airplane packages that include the plane / batteries / speed controller and 4ch RC transmetter/ and onboard receiver)
Charge/ the batteries, drop the loco on the track, push the button on the RC, and watch with glee as the train slowly pulls away. ;-) (electrical continuity issues a fading memory/nightmare)
What do you say Aristo? ...next Christmas track, train, battery, receiver, transmitter, all in one box! (I don't need the track but, it would still make a great kit)
...and when the batteries are starting to fade, the train pulls onto a "charging" siding for "re-fueling", (just like my iRobot plugs itself back into it's charging station when it's done cleaning the floor), ... and like a prototypical train would, when it needed fuel.
A good idea? ..or am I completely nuts? ;-)
Cheers, Todd K.
Cape Cod - Cranberry Cove Railroad (aka "4 Seas RR")
ToddK.
That sounds like a great idea. I feel sure that the reason you don't see them the way you discribe is a money issue. Some Aristo Craft equipment is ready for sound and R/C but they leave the choice of components up to you.
Good Luck,
Ron
Hi Todd Aristo is the only who provides us with the battery plug option but it is not a full on board connection. You still need to rewire to properly have bi directional lights and markers and in some Locos isolate the motors from the track pick ups. I would be out of a job if this was easier! Maybe some day.
Don Sweet ,RCS of NE
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