Spectrum series

[Anonymous]

Remember the "worst model" discussion.
Are there many who had problems with the Spectrum series? I have no experience from them, I am offered one item around $20, but I got influenced (against my principles) by the many opinions.

[Anonymous]

The HO bachmann and Bachmann Spectrum does not enjoy the best reputation and steam is worse than diesel but for $20.00 you can't expect too much.

[Anonymous]

To be fair, the Spectrum line's reputation has
imporved considerably in recent years,
particularly because of the quality of their
newer steam locos. I own a handful of them, and
they all perform flawlessly and offer nice detail
at an affordable price. My understanding is that
Bachmann is in the midst of upgrading some of
its diesel locos in the same way.

Having said so, the Spectrum models one is likely
to find for $20 almost certainly are older models.
I would still be careful with those. On the other
hand, I just came from a train show where prices
for premier lines (even Kato and Athearn Genesis)
are dropping dramatically.
dropping

[Anonymous]

I too have several spectrum locos. My experience is that they all run very well, although conversion of the earlier models to DCC can be problematice. I have a friend who has an early GE 44 ton loco and two switchers. He has experienced significant operating problems with all three.

You are also correct about the prices drpiing for many of the premium locos. Just check out the advertised prices in MR or on this website and you will notice a downward trens. i think that the economy has a lot to do with it. i'll bet Walthers sales have dropped conserable over the past year soley to economic considerations.

[Anonymous]

I have a Spectrum Dash8 that was a terrible engine. (Bachman Spectrum N scale). It was weak, required a lot of power, very very noisy engine, slips like it's on butter. It does look great and it makes a good dummy engine now. I paid $50 for mine, $20 for a Spectrum engine is a low price, can't lose. I knew when I bought it what I'd be in for though. I feel now that it's better to spend the money and get a better engine, you'll enjoy it a lot more guaranteed. I have 2 Kato SD90 and a Kato Dash 9, they are the best engines I have ever used. They were worth the price. Just one of my SD90 can pull 25 loaded coal carsthrough a turn, The Spectrum D8 only handled 5 cars. You've got to measure the difference of what it's worth to you.

[Anonymous]

Kristian,
I don't know what scale you are working in, but if you want a great HO scale engine at an excellent price, get a Life Like SD60 from their Proto 2000 series. They look excellent, and are very heavy so they can pull a lot of cars, or pull a few up a steep grade. If you're looking for one and can't find one at the shops, drop me an email. I have one in Union Pacific paint and a standard cab that I'd sell to you for a low low price. I'm heavy into N scale now, (condo) can't build a bit HO, but can handle a pretty good sized N layout. Pete - [e-mail]

[Anonymous]

I hope Spectrum does like LIFELIKE did with there PROTO 2000 SERIES.

[Anonymous]

Kristian.Do what Pete says.PROTO 2000 SD 60 a good locomotive.I got 12 of them.The prices went down on them also.

[Anonymous]

I have a Spectrum 44 tonnerthat I've had for about two years. It has two motors in it and I have had to repace then each tree times. A simple call to Bachmann got me all the motor replaced for free sent to my house within a week. The third set they sent me must have been an upgraded motor because the bushings were different. But I haven't had a problem with it since......Jamie

[Anonymous]

Kristian,
As you can see from the previous comments, it depends on which model it is. The Consolidation and Mountain are both excellent locomotives. I have several of each and they are great.