Bachmann N Scale Northerns

[TrainFreak409]

I recently posted that I was going N scale. So, I wi***o know as much as possible. So, now I am asking about Bachmann's N Scale Northerns. The HO scale counterparts have problems staying on the track. Do the N scale ones have the same problem?

[8]TrainFreak409[8]

[Anonymous]

Usually the older Bachman N-Scale 4-8-4 didn't stay on the track-it usually wound up back in the box!

I haven't had any experience with the newer versions of the 4-8-4. I've heard that they made some improvements over time to that engine but if you want steam and willing to pay what-$75-80 for a 4-8-4, why not buy a Spectrum Mountain or a Consolidation?

Ed Schultz

[AltonFan]

The current production Bachmann Northerns run pretty well (the hardest part is putting them on the rails in the first place). They could probably use a little fine tuning. However, as these are not part of the Spectrum line, individual units can vary greatly in running characteristics. If possible, have the dealer test run them before purchasing. With some careful shopping, you shoud be able to get these for well below MSRP.

The original Bachmann Northerns had a weird drive system and didn't run very well. (The did have a very well detailed valve gear, however.) Unless us want to use them as scenery items or kitbash fodder, avoid them.

The problem is that these engines are models of the ATSF 2900s, which were exceptionally large and unique engines. One would have hoped for something a tad more generic.

Bachmann also makes a N&W Class J. I've not had much experience with these. Again these are not Spectrum engines, etc. as above.

[orsonroy]

There are two versions of the Bachmann 4-8-4s. The older ones, and the ones that are by far more common, are pieces of junk (to put it mildly). Stay FAR away from them, or you'll say lots of bad words. The new yersions look identical, but come in a clear plastic case and feature a new split-frame drive train. They're hard to find since they're brand new, and don't run quite as well as the Bachmann Spectrum engines, but they're a step in the right direction.

Unless you're modeling the Santa Fe's steam fleet and absolutely NEED a few of these engines, I'd strongly suggest opting for one of the Spectrum steamers instead. In N scale, the 2-8-0 is THE best steamer currently made, with the 4-8-2 coming close behind. The 2-8-0 can be found for $70 or so, and the 4-8-2 is going for less than $100. Save yourself the time, money, aggrevation and headaches, and buy the wholly modern technology steam.

[Anonymous]

Here's a link that shows how I rebuilt one of the older ones. I can't tell you how the stock ones ran as this was a basket case when I got it.
http://www.the-gauge.com/showthread.php?t=6646
WARNING Lots of photos.
After remotoring, regearing and adding more electrical pickups it ran well.