Bachmann Engines

[Anonymous]

With my new modern era N Scale layout now operational, I'm in an engine buying mode and have been trolling e-bay. There always seem to be good deals on Bachmann engines but I'm confused by the "Spectrum" line. Some come with Rapido and some come with knuckle style. Does this give some indication as to the age or quality of the product?

[Anonymous]

Bachmanns "Spectrum" line are their premium locomotives. They feature more and finer detail, upgraded running gear, etc. and are more expensive than the "Standard " line. You might want to check out their website at:
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/index.html

[Anonymous]

Spectrum are indeed their premium brand. I'd guess that examples with knuckle couplers will have had these fitted by the current owner, as I've never seen Bachmann N scale locos factory fitted with knuckles, only Rapidos. Make sure you're looking at N rather than HO scale - some eBay sellers aren't too hot on listing what scale the item is.

I have one of the Spectrum Dash 8-40CWs in N - detail is good, but it can't pull - not heavy enough. I've tried to find space for more ballast but drawn a blank so far - pity really as it looks good and runs well enough with short trains. Strangely the HO version of the same loco is a real haulage king - can handle loads on its own that need two Athearn Dash 9s to move.

[boomer5344]

I am too wondering about the N scale spectrum steam locomotives. They look great. I know the spectrum HO steam locos have been a hit. How do the N locos run???
I was NOT impressed by the standard N scale steam opperings (N&W J, ATSF 4-8-4)

[Wdlgln005]

Bachmann N scale locos have been produced for a long time. You may see some older coffee grinder Funits on sale, but avoid them. With a modern era layout, you want "new production" locos. "Spectrum" is meant to be their best lines, while "Plus" or "standard" lines have lesser quality, especially when you look at finish.

N scale connies seem to be about the best steamers made, just be sure to test yours so that it runs. They have other steamers in the "spectrum" line that may fit your needs. I din't have as much experience with their other loco's.
Most modelers go for the Atlas/Kato lines for modern units.

I've never seen a Bachmann Nscale unit without a Rapido coupler in the box, then converted with a MTL coupler. It would be a good development if they started to use Accumate couplers. Check their website and ask the Bach Mann any questions. Have fun Nscaling!

[Jacktal]

From my own experience,Spectrum are quite nice running locos,much better than the standard Bachmann locos,but still miles behind Atlas and Kato.But considering their lower cost,they are an acceptable compromise.

[Anonymous]

Bachmann Spectrum steam locos are excellent in both HO and N. but their Spectrum diesels are not very good. if you plan on getting a Spectrum diesel locomotive i would highly recommend that you get one from somewhere where you can test run it first. some of them run very well, but many of them are junk.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by NightCrawler

Bachmann Spectrum steam locos are excellent in both HO and N. but their Spectrum diesels are not very good. if you plan on getting a Spectrum diesel locomotive i would highly recommend that you get one from somewhere where you can test run it first. some of them run very well, but many of them are junk.

You certainly have said it right about the Spectrum diesels as I junked about seven of the GE dash 8's both in wide cab and regular. They were not even the right height, but I did correct that problem.

We should have a place to send models we do not want so someone could use them. When I first started modeling, 1968 in HO, I purchased many on sale items and then tossed them within a year. Does anyone remember AHM I believe back in New Jersey. I used to order ten or so items on sale and really purchased train cars and other items that were cheap. Anyone out there have any ideas. on getting

The steam engines are display items to be used on a shelf, however, they do run fair and can be used on a layout. My 2 8 0, the PRR K4 and my N&W J all run fair but not great. The detail is above average for these three Spectrum locomotives and I would still buy them for the purpose of displaying HO.

If the Spectrum line would upgrade their drive systems to the Trix or at least close, they would have a winner.

This hobby is all about enjoying the time we spend with the models and I really like the engines for the purpose I use them.

[Anonymous]

I hate it when people start bashing bachmann, especially standard line...BACHMANN IS GREAT ESPECIALLY STANDARD LINE !!!!!! dON'T LET PEOPLE TELL YOU OTHERWISE !!!! I need to get some of the guys from the Bachmann forum over here.

[boomer5344]

I was able to examine and test run a Bachmann spectrum N 2-8-0 and
4-8-2 today. They are MAGNIFICENT! Very finely detailed and SMOOTH running as I hoped for. As I expected, they are small versions of the excellent Spectrum HO steam engines they are producing. I purchased a Rock Island 2-8-0 and a MOPAC 4-8-2. I will be ordering several more of each for my roster. Now, I must equip them with Microtrains couplers.

The next two Spectrum N steam locomotives will be 2-10-0 "Russian" decapods and a USRA 2-6-6-2!

Thanks Bachmann!