I cannot find the discussion again -- I think I may have been looking at a thread that was from 2011 or so, but I recall reading from several different posters that in their experience Mehano locomotives were quiet runners. I specifically think I remember someone saying that their Mogul was also a strong puller. Does this ring anyone's brass bell?
And while we're at it, what about their Prairies (2-6-2s)?
Thanks,
-Matt
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.
Quiet, yes. Strong puller? Not really unless you add some weight in the boiler.
I was not aware that Mehano offered a Prairie.
Simon
snjroyI was not aware that Mehano offered a Prairie.
To my knowledge, only Bachmann makes a generic Prairie. I can't comment on its running abilities: this model has gone through a lot of changes over the last 20 years. I think it is still considered "old tooling" compared to the 2-6-0 offered by Bachmann, retooled fairly recently. That is a sweet runner. The only competition is the Athearn 2-6-0, which is a descendant of the old MDC line. I believe it has traction tires, which would make it a strong puller.
The 2-6-0 is a smooth and reliable runner, but it can only pull about a dozen freight cars on level track. The body is filled mostly full with lead, so I'm not sure where more weight could be added. Bullfrog Snot on one wheel could help.
If you are looking at the Bachmann 2-6-2, make sure to get only the latest version. These used to have a split axle design with plastic center, and they were known for splitting and falling apart.
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I was able to add some weight to a Mehano 2-6-0. It was a lot of work for the small amount of weight gain, but it did help. Dan
Southgate 2 I was able to add some weight to a Mehano 2-6-0. It was a lot of work for the small amount of weight gain, but it did help. Dan
I added two ¼ oz. weights to my Mehano 2-6-0 Mogul camelback, the train length, with a bobber caboose, increased from 4 to 7 cars going up 2%, 26" radius grades.
The new weights are located inside the boiler over the worm shaft, and inside the Wooten firebox at the backhead. For the rear cab version, the firebox space will be much smaller.
Jim
The challenge is that the Mehano engine is all plastic, except for some lead in the boiler. Plastic frame, under covers, etc... In addition to a plastic boiler. One option is to add details with extra weight, like side air reservoirs. You might also want to add a metal toolbox upfront, under the boiler, and compensate with the same amount of weight inside the cab (to keep the weight balanced). Doctor Wayne is King in finding ways to add weight to an engine...
Darth Santa Fe If you are looking at the Bachmann 2-6-2, make sure to get only the latest version. These used to have a split axle design with plastic center, and they were known for splitting and falling apart.
Mantua produced a small 2-6-2 that was close to a Baldwin prototype. The version with a metal boiler is a strong puller. Bonus: it has a traction tire on one driver. Getting these to run adequately does require a bit of work though. Mine works very well after I changed the motor and added all-wheel power pickup on the tender. It's very close to a logging loco that ran in my region in the 1930's...
20200927_135312b on Flickr
Was it this thread?
https://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/13/t/291514.aspx
Gary
Hi guys,
I didn't want anyone to think I had asked this question and then wandered off. I'm still paying attention but it's past my bedtime so I'll gather my comments and further ponderings tomorrow.