Do manufacturers like Bachmann have different quality levels that they use for individual products vs train sets? For example, in N scale I notice they have different steam locomotives included in certain train sets that they don't list as being sold individually. They have some sets with a 4-6-0 but they don't sell one individually. Is this because the train set is a lower quality?
I can't speak for N scale, but for HO, I've seen Bachmann sets with locos made with older tooling, and some with newer tooling. So my answer would be yes, depending on what's compared. But the better lines like Spectrum would not ne found in sets.
Simon
MJ4562Do manufacturers like Bachmann have different quality levels that they use for individual products vs train sets?
Yes. You can buy better quality Bachmann models individually than what comes in their train sets.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
When you say "manufacturers like Bachmann," that's a varied universe. Even Bachmann has several price points in their sets.
The only one I have knowledge of is Kato, and they sell "the good stuff" with their kits.
SeeYou190 MJ4562 Do manufacturers like Bachmann have different quality levels that they use for individual products vs train sets? Yes. You can buy better quality Bachmann models individually than what comes in their train sets. -Kevin
MJ4562 Do manufacturers like Bachmann have different quality levels that they use for individual products vs train sets?
I agree with Kevin. Here in the U.K. manufacturers seem to have basic items in train sets. They tend to aim at 'the beginner' market.
As the modeller advances to a bigger layout the manufacturer sells better quality items.
David
To the world you are someone. To someone you are the world
I cannot afford the luxury of a negative thought
NorthBrit SeeYou190 MJ4562 Do manufacturers like Bachmann have different quality levels that they use for individual products vs train sets? Yes. You can buy better quality Bachmann models individually than what comes in their train sets. -Kevin I agree with Kevin. Here in the U.K. manufacturers seem to have basic items in train sets. They tend to aim at 'the beginner' market. As the modeller advances to a bigger layout the manufacturer sells better quality items. David
Back in the 70s, long after my American Flyer was put into storage and long before I got into HO scale modeling, I bought a Bachmann N scale starter set for my young son. We had more problems with power losses, derailments and unintended uncoupling, that we tossed the set out and abandoned model railroading in favor of raising tropical fish.
Rich
Alton Junction
richhotrain Probably true, but I can't help but wonder if they lose more than they gain by selling inferior products in starter sets. Rich
Probably true, but I can't help but wonder if they lose more than they gain by selling inferior products in starter sets.
Agree. Most of the starter sets here are 'tat'. Even the ones with 'Flying Scotsman' as the locomotive.
Having said that, my first set (when I came back to MR) was a Class 52 diesel, wagons and track plus a cheap controller. Princely sum of £10.00 (around $11.00) The diesel still runs like a dream. The store had three sets. Having bought one and tested it I went to buy the others. Unfortunately they were sold.
The reason I'm asking is I like the N scale modern 4-4-0 and 4-6-0 that Bachmann and Model Power made a few years ago and don't currently sell individually, but appear to include in certain sets. I'm considering getting a set just for the locomotive.
I'm on the fence though because I have heard that sets usually include lower quality gear. I wonder if there are parts numbers available for the individual items to compare.
I have a ho bachmann set. It was $100 with everything you needed to run trains. It runs well and for what you get it was a great deal. I have a n scale bachmannn set and everything is great. If you find the set for far less than the MSRP, it is worth it.
richhotrainProbably true, but I can't help but wonder if they lose more than they gain by selling inferior products in starter sets. Back in the 70s, long after my American Flyer was put into storage and long before I got into HO scale modeling, I bought a Bachmann N scale starter set for my young son. We had more problems with power losses, derailments and unintended uncoupling, that we tossed the set out and abandoned model railroading in favor of raising tropical fish.
Returning to model railroading after 40 years and taking unconscionable liberties with the SP&S, Northern Pacific and Great Northern roads in the '40s and '50s.
crossthedog richhotrain Probably true, but I can't help but wonder if they lose more than they gain by selling inferior products in starter sets. Back in the 70s, long after my American Flyer was put into storage and long before I got into HO scale modeling, I bought a Bachmann N scale starter set for my young son. We had more problems with power losses, derailments and unintended uncoupling, that we tossed the set out and abandoned model railroading in favor of raising tropical fish. But you came back. :)
richhotrain Probably true, but I can't help but wonder if they lose more than they gain by selling inferior products in starter sets. Back in the 70s, long after my American Flyer was put into storage and long before I got into HO scale modeling, I bought a Bachmann N scale starter set for my young son. We had more problems with power losses, derailments and unintended uncoupling, that we tossed the set out and abandoned model railroading in favor of raising tropical fish.
But you came back. :)
NilThe only one I have knowledge of is Kato, and they sell "the good stuff" with their kits.
In N and Z scales there are good-quality train sets available for the beginner.
Not so much in current HO. Athearn tried it a few years back.
I would assume Lionel still makes some good-quality sets in three rail O.
Here is an example of a Bachmann train set with, what appears to be a decent Consolidation engine:
https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1796
I don't think Bachmann has a "special line" of engines specifically for their train sets, at least in HO steam.