Thanks. I already have 7 Bachmann F7A's and 3 F7B's. I have also converted all 10 units to DCC. Since I purchased the last 4 F7A's (converted 2 to F7B's), I now have to modify the trucks to fit the Kadee's coupler so the units are closer to each other and NOT look like the picture you provided. I had already done this a few years back when I was active in the hobby and now that I am returning, the stored units that I had already modified did not run well. That is when I purchased 4 new F7A's (to use new trucks & pickups) and used the shell off previous units. Since I am using the new trucks, I have to hack away at the trucks so that the consists (ABBA) will look natural.

wb2002

Who else makes F7 A/B locomotives, Union Pacific, other than Bachmann? I have searched but find only a couple that does.

Thanks . . . .

wb2002

I might add that I have used these couplers before and as the instructions indicated hacking away at the trucks - it was so involved. I hated it then and not looking forward to doing this again. I was hoping by now, either Backmann or KD had made some improvements in this area.

I would also like to know how the couplers are connected to the real F7's - connected to chassis or trucks?

wb2002

I tried using the recommended coupler KD suggest (#452) however, it contacts and interferes with the trucks. I have both the older model of the F7's and the latest and the problem is the same.

wb2002

Forgive my ignorance but I have searched and could not find a picture of what a drawbar connection looks like. I do understand the use of it but don't think I have ever seen one.

Thanks

wb2002

Thanks for reply. In my case the problem is not the distance needed for adjacent connected units. The problem is the proximity of the trucks. On the original Backmann F7 units I cut off part of the truck that was interfering with the installation of the short  kadee couplers I had installed. I was hoping that I did not have to shave off part of the new trucks I have used to replace the original trucks.

I have 2 Bachmann F7A's & F7B's locomotives however the couplers are too long. When in a 4 loco consist, it doesn't look right with the distance between locos. Is there a coupler or modification I can use to shorten the distance between the units?

Thanks

wb2002

Thanks again. Before, I was using 2 F7A's and 2 F7B's in consists and it worked well. Since I return to the hobby, none of the units ran well hence, I considered replacements. I considered your suggestion concerning maintenance on the trucks but found new F7A units on ebay for about $22.00 ea. I purchased 1 and discovered I could use the new trucks on the old unit with the old motor/flywheel arrangement. The new F7A's did not have flywheels and chassis was not heavy as the old unit. I could also use the old shell. I have since ordered and receive 3 more units that I will convert. I am thinking this is a better alternative than purchasing totally new expensive units since I am now retired and have more time on my hands than money.

Thanks for all suggestions and help

wb2002

Thanks Joe. That sounds encouraging. What is a good lubricant for trucks?

wb2002

Looking for 2 ea. of F7A & F7B Union Pacific locomotives. I want all units powered. I use to have Bachmann units I used (about a month) 14 years ago but then put the hobby on hold until a month ago.  I tried the Bachmann's but they have problems - the trucks seems clogged or something. I want to replace the Bachmanns. I will use the decoders I have in them.

Any suggestions on some decent units?

Thanks

wb2002

Thanks for all responses and I misunderstood some things about this forum. I thought this forum was dedicated to Bachmann products only. The item I was referring is a Bachmann Plus, EMD F7A (Union Pacific) #1470, Item No. 11204.

I have the trucks out already and was also thinking about using super glue to hold the plastic piece that the drive shaft fits into. Also, the motor support is pretty secure with the 1 screw.  I don't think I will have any problems. I had already converted the units using Digitrax DH140 decoders long ago.

Again, Thanks

wb2002

A few years ago when entering this hobby and while at a train show, I purchased 3 F7A's and F7B's locomotives. I ran 2 of each about a couple of months and had to move and postponed the hobby. I have now retired, moved, and restarting the hobby again. While trying out an F7A, it started to move but then stopped moving and only making noise when signaled to go forward or reverse (like in neutral). I discovered that the coupler on the worm gear shaft is slipping. It is the plastic receptacle that is attached to the worm gear shaft. I hope I am making this clear. There is another problem and that is the "Instruction Paper" included with the loco. The parts diagram and picture does not match the actual parts. It lists motor screw holders and motor fasteners that do not match what is actually there. The motor support I actually have is a 1 piece unit with screw holders built on. I also need another one of these since 1 of the screw holder portion broke off. I am not sure how to order or obtain part information for repairs.

Please help . . . . .

wb2002