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Discussion Boards => Williams by Bachmann => Topic started by: M1FredQ on March 10, 2013, 12:06:40 PM

Title: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on March 10, 2013, 12:06:40 PM
It was a long work week last week so on Friday I had a an hour before I needed to be home. In need of a little "mental health" break, I stopped at Barnes and Noble and pulled the last copy of "O"-Gauge Railroading magazine. In it on page 27 is a very impressive review/article of the new WBB O-Gauge GP-30 with plenty of photograghs.
I have seen a couple  short WBB video reviews on U-Tube taken from one of the "shows" and became very interested in this type as I usually go for Steamers and F-type diesels or NW-2's. But there is some magical "alure" about this diesel and started to consider adding this especially after the WBB reps on the video described what lengths they went to for detail and trainsound realism.

Well read the article I can tell you I plan to get one in the UP markings as it is so classic.
Sounds like WBB hit a home run with this one and I wish them the best of success!!!!
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on March 10, 2013, 09:09:57 PM
M1FredQ
I also read that article and I have seen one in person and IMO they have hit a home run as you said. One of our club members after reading that article went out and got two of them an ACL and NYC. I am getting the ACL myself.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: r0gruth on March 10, 2013, 10:43:22 PM
That article did not sound very encouraging about the sounds.It said that the sounds couldn't be heard very well when the train was moving because they were too soft and there was no way to make them louder.Over all they were complimentary.

Another exception I must make concerns handrails.It is true that some of the older models like the GP7/9 had flat end hand rails and it seems to imply that this is the first model with round hand rails on the ends.I don't think that is true.IMO the early Williams models were almost  exact copies of Lionel models.If Lionel had flat end hand rails,so did Williams.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on March 10, 2013, 11:16:33 PM
Perhaps at the York Show in April there may be enough feedback where WBB may fine

tune the GP-30 before they release the other road names. Overall it seems like a great

engine and I plan to still get one, although some other road names will be real tempting

besides having just the UP version

Also with the group of folks on this forum I'm sure we will see ways to improve the sound as well as come up with some other ways to "fine tune" for ourselves.

More and more I am getting used to disassembling and "tinkering" and fixing for myself and actually liking it!! Not to mention I include my son to help and I see him learning!!!

Tonight we did some "weathering" on some old gondolas we found at a re-sale shop, cleaned and oiled the axles and he was running them on the layout.

Once you get past the "angst" of killing your engine and it does run and seems better than I think with some good instructions like the folks put up here I think it's all do-able!!!
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on March 11, 2013, 11:03:55 AM
Roger you are correct about the sound and my friend who got two of them as said the same thing but he said to him that was not a sale stopper. He has around 25 Williams now and says these are really a great step up for him.

i am sure the sound volume control which it does not have now might change and one might make it in the next run of units if enough people ask for that upgrade. Then to someone on the forum like M1FredQ said will come up with a way to increase the volume.

I have noticed myself if I run my Williams engines using my ZW-C modern transformer with the chopped sine wave I get better slow speed and sound at a lower speed so if I have a new GP30 maybe the sound while running might be better because I am getting it to move at a lower voltage. I will have to get my friend to bring his GP30 over and give that a try. :)
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Juniata Guy on March 11, 2013, 11:11:47 AM
I am the anonymous club member Wyatt mentions in his post above.   ;)

I have both the ACL and NYC GP-30's and love them.  While George Brown was correct in his review that the volume on the prime mover sounds cannot be increased, the sounds are still audible while the engine and train are in motion.  On my MTH and Lionel engines, I normally tend to reduce the volume anyhow as it tends to grow old quickly.

Very nice detail on these engines and the paint and graphics are very sharp!  Kudos to Bachmann for a great new entry in the O gauge/O scale market!

I should mention too, since George raised the question in his review; the GP-30's will operate through my modified 0-27 switches.  Before ordering them, I measured one of my WBB GP-38's.  The GP-30's are actually about an inch shorter over the coupler faces.  I've never had an issue with the 38's, so I was confident (well, sort of...) that the 30's would easily handle the curved route through my switches and that proved to be the case when I placed them on my layout.

Curt
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: r0gruth on March 11, 2013, 09:00:08 PM
Curt,

I don't particularly care for the sounds other than whistle/horn and bell.
I had a few Williams before Bachmann [I think] that had very weak horn
and bell sounds.I opened it up and adjusted a screw on what appeared
to be a very small potentiometer and was able to get acceptable sounds.

The GP-30 is on my list when a C&O or Family Lines scheme is made.
However I may need to settle for something else.I'll be patient.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on March 13, 2013, 11:31:34 PM
A volume control or on/of switch for engine sounds would be a great add on for 2nd edition Gp-30's. We "kids" could get some track time in when its late at night and the other "kids" are in bed!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Juniata Guy on March 14, 2013, 12:57:30 PM
I was running my New York Central GP30 last night when I had an epiphany of sorts concerning the sound in these engines.  My layout is only 15 X 16 feet so, when I'm operating Lionel or MTH engines with the sounds on, the engine sounds never go away.  You can always hear the engine from across the layout.

With the new WBB GP30's, I can only hear the engine sounds when the locomotive is approaching and passing the spot where I am standing or sitting.  The sounds diminish to the point they can't be heard as the train travels away from me.  If you think about it, this is actually much more prototypical than to be able to hear the engine from anywhere across your layout.

Curt
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on March 14, 2013, 01:11:21 PM
Curt
As you have said that does sound more prototypical sounding. I am looking forward to club meeting next week and you bringing the GP30 to run on the club layout. Thanks for you input.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: r0gruth on March 14, 2013, 10:17:32 PM
Curt,

Why not lower the sound level on the Lionel and MTH locos?
With several locos running with sound at a high level on a relatively small layout like mine,@12' X 20',the sounds become a little too much.
I have noticed that the HO guys don't seem to run their trains at high sound levels for,IMHO,a more realistic effect.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on March 14, 2013, 11:17:17 PM
I like what Juniata Guy said about the "new" WBB GP-30 sounds.

Appears that WBB gave this a lot of thought. I can't wait to put an order in.

Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Juniata Guy on March 15, 2013, 07:01:05 AM
Roger:

After about 5 minutes of running, I ordinarily will lower the sounds on the Lionel and MTH engines to a level that is less overwhelming.  The downside is this also lowers the volume of the horn sounds, which is what I really enjoy the most.

Curt
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: r0gruth on March 15, 2013, 10:24:03 PM
Quote from: Juniata Guy on March 15, 2013, 07:01:05 AM
Roger:

After about 5 minutes of running, I ordinarily will lower the sounds on the Lionel and MTH engines to a level that is less overwhelming.  The downside is this also lowers the volume of the horn sounds, which is what I really enjoy the most.

Curt

OK.I agree and see the problem.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on March 16, 2013, 11:57:45 AM
One of the classes I teach if I get paid in cash that's my "play money'

I put in the order for the GP-30. I like that it can handle the 0-27 curves too!

In the middle of the layout I used my old 0-27 track for the Peter Wilt but we like to run the NW-2's on it we'll try the GP-30 on it too!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: thumper on March 16, 2013, 06:03:22 PM
Regarding the engine sounds getting to be irritating:  I had a set from the 70s with the Mighty Sound of Steam.  I could only take about 5 minutes of that.  The wires from the tender to the loco worked loose, and I never put them back together.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Cobrabob8 on March 17, 2013, 02:37:03 PM
IMO, the level of sound would not stop me from purchasing a Williams by Bachmann GP-30. I love the way these locomotives look. I plan on purchasing a NYC GP-30 when business and my hours pick up at work. We are usually slower with fewer hours available during the Winter months.
Cobrabob.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Cobrabob8 on March 18, 2013, 04:27:03 PM
Classic Toy Trains Magazine has a review of the Williams by Bachmann NYC GP-30 in their next issue. On-Line if you are a subscriber is a short video review of the same locomotive. I like the new sound system.  ;D If you are a subscriber you can watch the video.
Cobrabob.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on March 22, 2013, 10:54:08 PM
Well I got to see and hear the GP30 last night at our club meeting because Curt brought his ACL GP30 and ran it on the club layout. All I can said IMO WOW. That Gp30 is a true home run for Williams by Bachmann. The detail is great and the sound is very nice even though it has no volume control. I hope they move this detail and sound(maybe add a volume control) forward to other engines. Outstanding in my book. :)
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Cobrabob8 on March 25, 2013, 01:36:27 PM
Wyatt,
All of these positive reviews are making me "Antsy" to get my hands on one, preferably for me, an NYC version. Thanks, Bob.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: raider409 on March 25, 2013, 03:33:52 PM
Hey Mr Bachmann,  Will you be releasing the new roadnames and when they will be available for the GP30 at York?
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: TrainmanGene on March 25, 2013, 03:46:34 PM
I think the Bachmann table will be swarmed lol. I'm going to probably get a Coast Line GP-30 but hope to see one in Pennsy in the near future. I am also looking foreward to the Norfolk Southern Heritage Reading SD-90 which will also have the True Blast Plus.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: phillyreading on March 25, 2013, 05:39:13 PM
Quote from: TrainmanGene on March 25, 2013, 03:46:34 PM
I think the Bachmann table will be swarmed lol. I'm going to probably get a Coast Line GP-30 but hope to see one in Pennsy in the near future. I am also looking foreward to the Norfolk Southern Heritage Reading SD-90 which will also have the True Blast Plus.

Is Williams by Bachmann going to make an SD-90 NS heritage in Reading Lines?
I may have to cancel my order for the SD-70 ACe Reading Heritage unit by Norfolk Southern. Now if somebody would make an SD-70 ACe or SD-90 for Philadelphia & Reading Railways! 8)

Lee F.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: TrainmanGene on March 26, 2013, 12:45:25 PM
 Yes they are, It's in the 2013 catalog. Plus it will have the new sound system  :)


Quote from: phillyreading on March 25, 2013, 05:39:13 PM
Quote from: TrainmanGene on March 25, 2013, 03:46:34 PM
I think the Bachmann table will be swarmed lol. I'm going to probably get a Coast Line GP-30 but hope to see one in Pennsy in the near future. I am also looking foreward to the Norfolk Southern Heritage Reading SD-90 which will also have the True Blast Plus.

Is Williams by Bachmann going to make an SD-90 NS heritage in Reading Lines?
I may have to cancel my order for the SD-70 ACe Reading Heritage unit by Norfolk Southern. Now if somebody would make an SD-70 ACe or SD-90 for Philadelphia & Reading Railways! 8)

Lee F.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: phillyreading on March 26, 2013, 01:06:59 PM
Just saw the SD-90 N.S. Heritage series in the new PDF catalog, and there are five SD-90's with the new sound system.

Lee F.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: TrainmanGene on March 26, 2013, 09:56:35 PM
Yes there the first model from the old production to be converted to the new sound system. Probably more will be announced at York.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Chessie1971 on March 27, 2013, 02:00:52 PM
I been hearing alot of nice reviews of the new williams GP30. I'm waiting to see if they make one in chessie system and B&O in dark blue and yellow letter's before i get one.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: raider409 on March 28, 2013, 10:14:01 AM
Thanks for getting back to the original topic.
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on March 31, 2013, 12:57:14 PM
The GP-30 I ordered came in Saturday if I have time I'll get it open in the next day or two.

Packaging was nicely done!!! That's all I can say thus far!!!!

Son Joey can't wait to get it open!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Chessie1971 on April 01, 2013, 12:29:47 AM
Fred when you do that please do a video review Thanks Jeff
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 01, 2013, 06:21:32 PM
I am going to film it.

As I related in another thread my daughter is supposed to show me how to post pictures and videos. She keeps saying its not hard

BUT

As I learned from my Surgical Instructor while a Med Student  he used to say:

See One

Do one

Teach One

I just have to corner her long enough to show me .
Title: Re: Recview of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Chessie1971 on April 03, 2013, 12:21:07 AM
Ok Thanks Fred LOL
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 11, 2013, 03:09:39 PM
Sorry for long delay. I did video part of it and have it on hold till I know how to post it

BUT

I will go ahead and give a review probably over the weekend

Thanks for being patient.

I will say WBB hit a home run with this GP-30 I am glad I took the plunge
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: raider409 on April 17, 2013, 01:25:40 PM
Anyone have any news on the GP30's from York as to new road names and if and when they might be released?
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 20, 2013, 01:40:38 PM
A very busy week for us had to take a couple of relatives to their Dr's appointments as well as a work too.

I will be able to give a short review of the GP-30 I have.

As a preview. WBB really got serious with this release. What I mean is that "The Box" is a nice thick quality construction. WBB has seemed to have found itself with the colors on the box and yes it's distinct and classy looking. Be careful opening the box as not to tear the ends. I put a Popsicle stick or "chop stick" under the flap and gently lift so it doesn't tear. The Styrofoam housing is easily removed from the box. The Styrofoam pieces protecting the rail lings are carefully placed and easy to remove. On the back of the satyr foam packaging are "push holes" which will help you to carefully release the locomotive from the Styrofoam housing. Once the wrapping is all removed I had Joey place it on the track and I'll continue later!!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 21, 2013, 06:10:59 PM
Just to continue:

When the Engine came out of sty.. packing I noticed right away the detail on the locomotive. Having been a model airplane builder for a number of years I was impressed right away with seeing realistic looking "recessed panel lines". I also thought WBB

captured the "yellow" color of U.P. very nicely. The railings were all attached, with grip handles throughout the "body" of the locomotive all attached. The railing were all painted with crisp demarcation lines between gray and white. The railings were all straight and true.

Proceeding to the dorsal (top) of the locomotive. The rectangular and circular vents all had vents open and not solid plastic!! Very realistic!!! There was no "flash" pieces of plastic that get outside the moulding process. Very impressive.

Looking at the bottom wheel housing very nicely detailed. When you look at the steps even the edges of each step are painted white as on the real thing.

When you observe the forward and aft portion of the locomotive as I said before the grip handles are all there protruding out from the body of the engine. very realistic.

The various lights for and aft are there as well as a very visible crisp looking ID number board !!

On the track this engine has a very commanding presence-it looks impressive- the size is just right-it is a focal point and you can't help but look at it a lot!!!!

So far I was very impressed with the attention to detail, size(scale?) and paint job!!

WBB however they did it have to be complimented for the outstanding way this was painted and decaled. The smaller details like the linked chain fore and aft are welcome and wonderful to see!!!!

The couplers are easy to operate spring open easily and close with ease and stay closed.

On the underside(ventral) portion of the engine there are all kinds of nice detail-the knowledgeable RR fellas on this forum can elaborate on these elements-as for me I appreciate it and it looks realistic and cool!!!

The gears are metal!!! Yes!! Easy to get to for lubrication purposes. The "trucks" look
heavy duty and of high quality. There is a switch on the ventral side(bottom)-"lock position or run" I assume you can side track this engine and make it inoperable-very nice !!

Forgot to mention-the windows look very realistic very clear and crisp like real glass and even a set of wind shield wipers NOT the kind built into the window but a separate unit--it looks great!!

Got to sign out for now next time I give my impression of how it runs etc.

So far overall this is really an outstanding looking working model. The packaging, the construction, coloring at least for the U.P. example I have, the fine details like railings. linked chain, grip handles, painted safety stripes on the stairs, the windshield with wiper blades, lights, open fan and exhaust units and the decaling,etc make this a locomotive you want to have and display on your lay-out or shelf.

For someone like me who likes steamers and F-3's or F-7's and the GG-1 I was first very curious when I first saw this locomotive introduced by Bachmann at a "Train Show"and was really initially impressed by what they had produced.

As I said above this engine has a commanding presence on the lay out, it looks impressive is well built and looks like its ready to do some serious pulling or pushing!!

Next time I get the chance I'll talk about what it does once you give it the "juice"!!

Hope you find this helpful and post questions if you like !!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 27, 2013, 11:04:13 AM
Sorry for long delays . A lot of activity going on around our home kids, family etc.

I will put up pieces of my review a little at a time please bear with me!!

Got a few questions asking about the Union Pacific Color scheme.

I have a model airplane background primarily World War 2 I mention that fact because when modeling aircraft(a/c) WW1 and WW2 color camoflage  and paint schemes are really important Sometimes even having the right color but when applied to a scale model may not look right. There are so many factors, shadowing, scale effect, color pigment types etc. What about the Railroads? From what I have been reading Rail companies take pride in the unique designs and colors they come up with, and they do their best at standarizing colors. As a kid my Dad bought me a few shares of UP stock and every year I get a calender and I have come to appreciate the type of yellow U.P. uses to paint their locomotives.

now, how does that translate to the O-Gauge world. My "impression" based on looking at photographs and seeing the real deal up close over the years I venture to say WBB got it to an acceptable range. Paint varies as you bring down to scale and I think WBB took this all into consideration as the color looks fine to me not too light or not too dark. The hues and shadowing look very fitting for this scale. Please understand I have no knowledge so far as to how WBB matches colors or paint their locomotives and rolling stock!! Just on observation it has the, "right look"" to me and as I have said before I like how they did all the decaling and painting. I hope this helps.

I am sure there are experts out there who may want to chime in and I welcome it as I am always open to learning about these things.

Impression: So far based on what I have related without even putting the "juice" to the GP-30 I like what I see and am impressed and yes would encourage anyone sitting on the fence to go for it. In the couple of weeks we have had this engine Joey has been running it when he gets home from school before baseball practice and we run it together 10-15 minutes before he goes to bed at night.

I hope to move on without too much delay to the "workings" of this engine.

And yes I have gone forward and ordered the "Atlantic Coast Line" version and will give a review of it too when it arrives.

Thanks for putting up with my time delays. I really hope this helps folks who are thinking about it or waiting. I tend to be a "waiting" type but I had good vibes about this WBB GP-30 and am glad I took the plunge.

to be continued!!!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: r0gruth on April 27, 2013, 09:29:54 PM
Could the "lock and run" switch be for locking in a one direction mode similar to on the old Lionel e-units?
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 27, 2013, 09:46:53 PM
Good question

Tomorrow we have a party and a bunch of nieces and nephews over I'll try it out and post later
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on April 27, 2013, 10:58:07 PM
Ok I picked up my GP30 ACL this afternoon and all I can said it is just first class in my book. This is really a great looking and sounding engine.
Here is the sound as it sit in the idle mode.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8t8VtnXoWwk&feature=youtu.be (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8t8VtnXoWwk&feature=youtu.be)
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Chessie1971 on April 28, 2013, 04:19:00 PM
WMwalker thanks for showing that short video of the GP-30


                                               Jeff
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: r0gruth on April 28, 2013, 11:13:53 PM
Now I will admit it has been over thirty years since I have heard a GP-30,the idle seems to be top high pitched and to fast.

The complaint that I read of the sound not being loud enough seems to be incorrect as sheard on some posted videos.

As I said,it has been a long time since I have heard one.

It is on my list to acquire.
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on April 29, 2013, 12:04:26 PM
Chessie1971 you are quite welcome and glad you enjoyed the short video. Did you notice that you blow the horn and bell at the same time now. I really think this is a great engine and looking forward for more to come. Like I have said I already have my order in for the RS3 Seaboard in Dec. :)
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on April 29, 2013, 07:06:56 PM
WMwalker a big THANK YOU for showing that ACL GP-30 I am glad I ordered it !!

It looks really good in those colors!! Can't wait to get it
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Chessie1971 on April 30, 2013, 11:33:45 AM
Yes i did wmwalker sounds great thats the way it should be where you can blow horn and ring bell at the sametime. I can't wait to get one in chessie or B&O western maryland.
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 03, 2013, 01:53:40 PM
O. K. I will be doing this in bits and pieces as time permits As Little League is in full swing and the boys have 2 games a week to make up for a bad March and April.

PART 2 "Moment of Truth" or "GP-30 Gets the Juice"

Joey asked if he could have the honors of being the first to put the throttle to this new engine. He has been acing spelling tests and I said lets do it!!

When voltage begins to flow in the rails the engine seems to come alive. Right away the  diesel motor can be heard. If sound can be scaled I am thinking the volume of the motor is enough to be noticeable but not loud or overwhelming it appears appropriate for the size of the engine. Keep in mind this is only my "subjective" observation.
In addition ALL the lights illuminate!!! I was happy to see the lights distinctly illuminated instead of being dully lit. The I.D. board on top and front can be clearly seen and even the 2 lower yellow lights lite up. The headlights are there and light up
and the cab lights up too!! The lights maintain their same intensity no matter what the position of the throttle. This feature was very satisfying to see as I had been disappointed by the dull lit lights on the F-3's and GG-1's. I think Joey and i were high 5'ing each other when we saw how nice the lights worked -Thanks WBB!!!!!

Got to go

To be Continued
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 03, 2013, 06:41:38 PM
an addendum

Regarding the switch on the ventral(bottom) of the engine. WBB describes it as a "Lockout Switch" just behind the fuel tank.

You can "lock"the locomotive to operate in the forward direction only.

Thanks roGruth !!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: 3rail on May 04, 2013, 01:38:02 PM
Fred,

Actually you can lock it in reverse.  You have to read the directions! You first have to get the engine running in reverse and move the switch to the lock postion within 5 seconds.  It will not lock it in reverse forever, but it will last for most operating sessions. 

Regards,

3rail
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 04, 2013, 03:33:18 PM
My mistake thanks 3-Rail.

I read the instructions once and was going on memory and didn't bother to run downstairs to double check!!!

Thanks for the clarification
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on May 04, 2013, 05:52:50 PM
M1FredQ
The light being LED's that what makes them bright all the time and look so good. Also did you notice that the lights reverse when you change directions. I tell you this GP30 is a home run for me. I really love mine. I am waiting on some new road names and hopefully Southern or Northfork Southern or both because I will by them both. In fact I am going to the train room now and run it. ;D
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 04, 2013, 08:59:59 PM
I am glad to know the lights are LED's. They are really bright!!!

We have a lot of train traffic in our area over 30 a day. At night is when you notice the extreme brightness of the train lights. The LED's are the way to go and have a similar brightness to them.

I hope to replace the lights in my WBB F-3's and GG-1's if that's possible!!!

After reading what you wrote I checked out and noticed the lights DO reverse when you change directions. Thanks for the input.

I am really liking this locomotive!!!!

I did order the ACL version but shipper told me it won't go out till Monday so I won't be able to report anything till end of last week
BUT
your video "says"a lot in a short time!!!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 04, 2013, 09:05:57 PM
wmwalker I noticed in your video your video that your locomotive revs up or down depending upon how much throttle you give it. Mine is a constant rev could it be the transformer I am using??

I am using one of the lionel 80 watters.
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on May 06, 2013, 01:29:18 PM
M1FredQ
When I made the short video i kept the engine in the neutral mode so I ran up and down the voltage so everyone could hear the engine rev up and down when you give it more voltage. Your transformer should be just fine. It is sometime hard to hear that change while it is running down the track. Thats why I did the video in neutral mode with the engine.
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 06, 2013, 02:34:46 PM
Part 3 Running the Locomotive

Thanks for the feedback. I was hoping those that really know the hobby would jump in.

This is the shortest part and we are done.

Right off the bat as you apply power to the engine it lights up and the engine sound kicks in. BUT what I noticed right away was how the engine starting moving at a very slow speed at very low power. VERY realistic and a very nice feature. The acceleration from stop to running speed is very smooth and even provided you throttle slow and easy. Everyone should be satisfied and pleased with that feature.

I already commented on the engine sound and lights.

The horn and bell are all appropriate for the type of locomotive and I thought the volume acceptable. I posted above that it seemed appropriate to what I thought was the scale of the engine. How can there be "scale" sound? I am just subjectively trying to compare it to something.

I liked how if you move the throttle ever so slowly it accelerates linearly so you get a realistic type of acceleration OR conversely deceleration when you throttle down!!

We ran the engine around the lay-out for 15 minutes before Joey wanted to hook up 5 or 6 railroad cars. The engine pulled them effortlessly and after running for about a good one half hour there was no noticeable heat build up on the body. When we set the throttle to 60 scale mph it held that speed without a hic-cup around our 9x9 set up.

Impression: This is a well designed , well engineered. well built  working model of a GP-30. It looks like the GP-30. The color of the Union Pacific example I have appears right and looks like it should given its size compared to the "real thing". The details like "hold handles", panel lines, realistic windshield and wiper blades etc, not to mention the quality of the decaling are all impressive. The engine runs well and the engine sounds are all welcome and nice features. The rail lings are well constructed that they can withstand a child's gripping hands which i think they must have thought about as Joey did pick up the engine at one point with one hand with his fingers around the rail lings !!!!!!!

Bread and Circuses: If you have not considered a more modern diesel beyond F-3 or F-7(like me) really seriously consider the WBB GP-30 series. As I mentioned above what started me down the road was Jack Lynch's presentation on U-Tube it planted a seed that got me thinking more and more about it and I had a hunch this was going to be quite a locomotive and the price was attractive. Circuses: Yep this is a fun locomotive to own and operate, it looks good, runs good and like I mentioned above it has a commanding presence on the layout-it just looks cool. It teamed up nicely with a MTH Scale U.P. Caboose I had bought while down in Florida last year(color seems to match spot on!! I was torn between the UP and ACL went with UP first and because I was so impressed with my purchase I ordered the ACL !!!!!!!

I hope this helps anyone thinking about or not even thinking about this engine. I personally like the application of technology brighter lights using LED's, motor quality, details like the seeing through the upper fan blades, horn and bell sounds. It's all tastefully done well with out being over done. This GP-30 is one engine you will be proud to own and run and have fun with.

Thanks for hanging in there with me a lot goes on around our home as you might imagine and I have to get on the computer when the kids are not around or asleep!!!! Best wishes everyone and I am looking forward to that Seaboard RS-3!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 06, 2013, 02:47:13 PM
wmwalker just read your piece. Thanks for the help. When Joe gets home from school today I will "fire" up the GP and do what you just wrote.

I failed to mention as much as I wanted that ACL your video pushed me off the fence. I am stuck on ACL's classic purple color scheme BUT that black and yellow does look impressive and your video pushed me to pull the trigger and get it.

Thanks again wm the ACL ships today I'll post when it arrives!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 08, 2013, 09:21:50 PM
ACL GP-30 arrived in today's mail !!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: wmwalker on May 09, 2013, 09:28:05 AM
great news and now you can have both units running. I know you will love it. I ran my last night and just outstanding in my book.
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 09, 2013, 10:34:33 AM
Thanks wm

Joey has a spelling test Friday 25 words 5 bonus. I told him he has to ace that test and he opens the box!!!! i don't know who is more impatient him or ME!!!!

I hope to post something about it Friday night or Saturday!!!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 11, 2013, 10:50:23 PM
As promised I wanted to post something today. Baseball ran into the evening but here goes.

Comments and Impressions:

Today we opened the ACL version of the O-Gauge GP-30. I wanted to comment on the packaging. The box is a thicker cardboard than was seen with other Williams boxes. It is well constructed and the design and color are classic looking. In other words it's built to last. As I mentioned initially be cautious opening the flaps as not to tear  the edges. If you work a Popsicle stick or in my case a "chop stick" under the flap at the edge to open the box it will lift up without tearing. You will need to open both ends of the box and carefully push the the whole Styrofoam encased unit out of the box. It is a tight fit.

The thick transparent cover is held on by tape and is easily removed. The instruction book and warranty card are in a depressed portion on the backside of the Styrofoam packaging. Use the push holes on the back side of the Styrofoam to carefully release the Locomotive.

The locomotive has a nice hefty weight to it. Feels really solid. The Styrofoam strips between the railings are snug but easily work free without damaging anything.

At this point I took the time to admire the paint job and look for flaws. The paint job on something like this which no doubt is mass produced in large numbers is impressive and quite acceptable. Black is not an easy color to deal with. I remember a master model airplane builder who liked "Night" camouflage mentioning that if black is not applied properly your model will look like a "black hole". No such issue here as I think the colors are applied appropriately and reflect the scale of the locomotive. The decaling is properly applied and the famous Atlantic Coast Line circular crest is boldly applied beneath the cab windows. The yellow railings and trim are a bold contrast and compliment the entire locomotive. Once again it stands out and is quite impressive either on or off the track.

What I also like is there is no assembly of the railings. I also opened a G-Scale GP-38 today that I had since January and you have to assemble the railings. I decided to leave them off as they looked delicate enough to eventually be damaged by Joey's handling. Point being it's great that this locomotive is ready to go right out of the box.
I have to sign off but hope to continue tomorrow.
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 14, 2013, 03:25:52 PM
If you want to see this ACL GP-30 go through its paces wmwalker has a video of it on this thread reply #39 posted Apr 27 of this year.

This is also a beauty and am really happy I added this one too!!!!!!

Question:
Is there a caboose that matches up with this?

Future Releases:

It will be interesting to see what WBB does with this series. I am sure all of us would like to see other "markings" I have a couple I would like to see but I will leave that up to folks here to post suggestions and see what WBB does.

Thanks everyone for taking the time to read the review and post your comments or questions. Somehow I felt compelled to post something on this locomotive as I was impressed by the quality and value. As I said above somewhere I had a "hunch" this was going to be a good buy and am glad I took the plunge.

I think WBB has a great future ahead look forward to seeing more of their releases especially that RS-3 in Seaboard markings!!!!
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: Juniata Guy on May 16, 2013, 03:35:37 PM
Fred:

I'm running an MTH 30-77126 ACL caboose with my ACL GP-30.  This caboose carries the safety orange paint and the "Thanks for using Coast Line" logo that would be appropriate for the era in which the GP-30's would have been new.

Unfortunately, I just checked the MTH product locator and there are none of these available at dealers right now.  You can still check a picture of it using the MTH item number and then, perhaps find one on the used market.

Curt
Title: Re: Review of WBB "NEW" GP-30
Post by: M1FredQ on May 18, 2013, 10:32:11 AM
Hi Curt

Thanks for the info I'll check to see if I can hunt one down.

I hope WBB considers matching cabooses for these GP-30's.

It was ironic that I bought the UP MPH Caboose last year and now with the GP-30 I just

picked up it is quite a match!!!

Have a great wekend!!!