Bachmann 0-6-0T

[EL PARRo]

I'm looking for a locomotive for the logging spur on my layout and I'm considering the Bachmann 0-6-0T. I need something that can pull 3-4 cars at the most (mostly flat cars and log cars) up a VERY steep grade, about 8-10%, and on 15" radius track. I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with this locomotive and if it can handle the job. Any feedback is appreciated.

[DSchmitt]

You need a geared loco. Bachman lists both a Shay and a Climax in HO scale

[EL PARRo]

I have been considering the Bachmann three truck Shay, but the cheapest that I've been able to find it for is $130, while the 0-6-0T is $45, and I'm a little tight on money at the moment.

[Anonymous]

Trainworld has Rivarossi 2-truck Heislers on clearance right now for under $100.00.

[EL PARRo]

$100 is still a little out of my price range at the moment. And I'm sure that by the time I did save up $100, they'd probably be sold out.

[Fergmiester]

Good Morning El PARRo

I'm running a spur line with 7-8% grades and with tight turns though I'm not sure of the radius. Safe to say parts of the curve would be under 18" and I can haul 5 log buggieas and a bobber caboose up the grade without slippage with my Spectrum 2-8-0.

(Just did a rough measurement and one section of the track about 10" is of a 15" radius)

[EL PARRo]

The Consolidation is another locomotive that I have been considering. I've heard nothing but good things about it.

I think that I can adjust the track and get that grade down to about 6-7%, but that is probably still too steep for the 0-6-0T, so I'm thinking, if I put traction tires on two of the wheels, and maybe also added some weight to the locomotive, it might then be able to handle the job.

[Anonymous]

I'd avoid adding traction tires if at all possible - in my experience they are a magnet for dirt and gunge that causes poor running. Instead, try adding as much lead (or other) ballast as possible and making your cars as free-rolling as possible.

[Anonymous]

I use the Bachmann 0-6-0T on 3% grades and it can handle about four cars. Doubt if you'd be happy using it on 7%.

[timthechef]

I have a Bachman 0-6-0 tank engine and I have a about a 4% grade and it won't pull more than 4 cars. Adding a little weight might help.
For a geared engine on a budget, round house has a Climax kit listed in Walthers for $26.00. It's easy to put together and after breakin it's a pretty good runner. It's just not too prototypicly correct looking. The kit comes with a good amount of detailing accessories so you can customize it to your liking.
Well good luck and hope to see you at the brrm forum again soon.

[EL PARRo]

I think that I will probably just try to save up some money and get the Rivarossi two truck Heisler, or at least the Bachmann Consolidation.