Product Review Please--Spectrum 0-6-0 Saddle Tank Switcher.

[SpaceMouse]

I'm going to need several switchers on my layout--at least 4 or 5. Right now I have an IHC 0-4-0 that I have to kitba***o make work-and it is a passible runner. I have 2 MDC kit 0-6-0 unbuilt which I know I can convert to DCC. But that is it for what I can use that fit the 1890's.

But the biggest regret I have for picking the 1890's as an era is that I can't use my S1 switcher which is my favorite loco for running. And I am planning a switching intensive layout.

So in case I freak-out and go to a 1920's layout. How do the Spectrum 0-6-0's run. Am I going to be happy with their smoothness of operation or am I going to suddenly freak out one day, put my steamers and saloon's and sherrif's offices in a box and build a Pennyslvania Oak Forest/ Coal mine so I can run my PRR switcher and Broadway stuff.

[tstage]

Chip,

I can't speak from personal experience but I've heard good things about the Bachmann 0-6-0. The only downside that I've heard is, because of the short wheel base, you might have some problems with hesitation/interupted power over crossings.

Tom

[selector]

I have found that with the P2K also, Tom, now that you mention it. I don't believe that it has a flywheel because when it does stop, it is on a turnout, and it stops right now. So, the short wheelbase does cause some problems, and if Chip intends to do a lot of switching (= lots of turnouts), well....

[Anonymous]

Take a look at MR Nov 2002 for the LL 0-6-0.

[Anonymous]

The LL 0-6-0 is a pretty engine, but wont pull half that its older brother the 0-8-0 does.

[scole100]

I have one on my layout and it runs very smoothly and can go SLOW. I had Tony's install a DCC decoder in it and It has been a very smooth running engine. The downside is it is very light, and very short. This means that dirty track or insulfrog turnouts will stop it dead in it's tracks. Also, it has limited pulling power, especially on any type of a grade.

[Anonymous]

Its a great little engine. runs smooth as anything. Doesnt pull much but then again a switcher shouldnt have to. Its a little hairy converting it to DCC, but a decoder will make it run even smoother. Just a tip: Check Ebay. I picked mine up for less than $30

[robengland]

agree all of that. Runs OK, but very vulnerable to poor contact. Tends to wobble about a bit too unless track is silky smooth. Nicely detailed so long as you don't peer into the cab. A beggar to fit a decoder into it (I used a DZ123). Forget sound [:)] Mechanism growls a bit. But cute.

[Anonymous]

Frogs on Atlas turnouts are a little high. Rigid frame steam switchers tend to stop at this point unless moving unprototypical quick.This can be corrected with a 6" double cut or 6" mill ***. File until frog is same height as adjoining rail. Go to local gun shop to get Birchwood Casey cold blue if you don't like the color of the refiled frog.
Or
get turnouts with powered frogs.

[Anonymous]

I am posting a new thread regarding Atlas Switches and their Frogs, Mstein, Please respond with more detail on what you did with your frogs!! and I am also in the hunt for an 0-6-0 that runs well over frogs, I need them to do SWITCHING only!

[Anonymous]

Hi There,

I have just purchased one from the states - got it for a very good price (compared to the UK) and it runs like a treat - again not too great on haulage, but it does what I need it to do - hauls 10 athearn box cars on the flat but could possibly do with a bit more weight, so will add some lead shot at some point!

Regards,

Stephen.