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Bachmann vs Kato vs BLI N scale gg1

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  • Member since
    August 2020
  • 29 posts
Bachmann vs Kato vs BLI N scale gg1
Posted by Aton on Sunday, August 23, 2020 10:38 PM

Hello everyone! 

How do the n scale GG1's from hold up to each other? Specifically the Bachmann, Kato, and BLI GG1's (or any others that currently make them)

I have a GG1 already, and I want to get a second. The one I have is Kato so I'm inclined to get another of the same brand, but since I run DCC they're all about the same cost so I figure id ask around before I bought anything.

Thanks

Tags: GG1 , N Scale , N-scale
  • Member since
    January 2017
  • From: Southern Florida Gulf Coast
  • 18,255 posts
Posted by SeeYou190 on Sunday, August 23, 2020 11:13 PM

Given the choice of anything in those three brand names, especially in N scale, I would get the Kato model without any second thought.

I had a massive fleet of Kato N scale locomotives, and never had a single problem with any of them.

About 1/3 or so of my HO diesel fleet has Kato drives, and again, zero problems.

-Kevin

Living the dream.

  • Member since
    October 2011
  • 276 posts
Posted by MARTIN STATION on Monday, August 24, 2020 12:29 PM

  I just like the way Kato's are made, quality materials, no glue because everything interlocks together and at least everything I own has ran excellent from day one and they seem to last forever. Also if you ever do need parts, they can for the most part be found. They also seem to hold up well being handled a lot.

Ralph

  • Member since
    September 2003
  • 21,669 posts
Posted by Overmod on Monday, August 24, 2020 12:32 PM

Is there any review of the scale appearance, proportional accuracy, and detail?

  • Member since
    August 2020
  • 29 posts
Posted by Aton on Monday, August 24, 2020 2:04 PM

my understanding was that BLI was better for fine detail, Kato generally ran better (but was still super detailed), and then that Bachmann was the mid-low range option, but occasionally made something really good like the EM-1, so I was curious how the polls came out for this specific model.

I have 5 Bachmann's and 2 Katos, (plus a model power 4-6-2 and some junky 80's engines). I've found that the Katos run amazing, but that the Bachmann's vary hugely, I have the Bachmann 4-6-0 that runs pretty poorly, but then my Bachmann DCC/DC K4 runs really good. I was wondering if their GG1 might be one of the good ones... (and I have no experience with BLI but I've heard some very mixed things)

  • Member since
    January 2017
  • From: Southern Florida Gulf Coast
  • 18,255 posts
Posted by SeeYou190 on Monday, August 24, 2020 2:12 PM

All newer Bachmann models are very good, I love mine.

Still, given any choice where Kato is an option, I would go there. Excellent performance and rock-solid reliability are selling points for me.

-Kevin

Living the dream.

  • Member since
    February 2018
  • From: Flyover Country
  • 5,557 posts
Posted by York1 on Monday, August 24, 2020 2:35 PM

I also do N Scale, and I vote for Kato.

York1 John       

  • Member since
    August 2020
  • 29 posts
Posted by Aton on Monday, August 24, 2020 4:04 PM

hmm, I kinda expected that Kato was going to be much better than Bachmann (not to mention that the drawbar capacity on the Kato is rather enticing for my helices), but I'm admittedly surprised that BLI isn't even in the running...

Anyway, thanks for the info, looks like ill be ordering my second Kato GG1!

  • Member since
    January 2017
  • From: Southern Florida Gulf Coast
  • 18,255 posts
Posted by SeeYou190 on Monday, August 24, 2020 4:36 PM

Aton
but I'm admittedly surprised that BLI isn't even in the running...

My only experience with BLI was in HO scale, and it was terrible.

-Kevin

Living the dream.

  • Member since
    December 2004
  • From: Bedford, MA, USA
  • 21,483 posts
Posted by MisterBeasley on Monday, August 24, 2020 5:52 PM

I'm also in HO, and I'm happy with my BLI Hudson.  I also like my Bachmann GG1.

Ok, I had to cement the worm gear to to the BLI drive shaft, and replace the non-Kadee couplers on the GG1, but these are pretty much things that go along with being a model railroader.

It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse. 

  • Member since
    January 2017
  • From: Southern Florida Gulf Coast
  • 18,255 posts
Posted by SeeYou190 on Monday, August 24, 2020 5:57 PM

MisterBeasley
I'm also in HO, <SNIP>  I also like my Bachmann GG1.

I saw one of the new HO scale Bachmann GG1s running at Dana's Railroad supply in Spring Hill, Florida, and it was an excellent performer.

-Kevin

Living the dream.

  • Member since
    October 2001
  • From: OH
  • 17,574 posts
Posted by BRAKIE on Monday, August 24, 2020 6:48 PM

There is one real choice Kato due to the superior drive.

Larry

Conductor.

Summerset Ry.


"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt  Safety First!"

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