Bachmann has become THE source for small HO steam. The 4-4-0 is truely state of the art. I haven't heared anything about future arrivals recently. I know the Bach-man will say be patient, but I was wondering if there are any rumors of future small steam engines. Personnally I would like to see another 2-8-0 only smaller and with slide valves. - Nevin
Hi Nevin,
I think a lot of us are 'waiting' with 'bated breath' when Mr. Bach Man gets the 'OK' to let us know if anything is coming down the 'Spectrum Steam Pike'.
Generally, I have understood from others' posts that Mr. Bach Man cannot comment on future Bachmann plans. Unless someone is 'really in the know' or has heard 'rumors' that have some 'fact' to them, I don't know if anyone on the forum has a 'handle' on what steam Bachmann is planning, next.
Some of us (read 'me' :D) have come pretty close to driving Mr. Bach Man 'crazy' with 'our' (read 'my') continual requests for Bachmann to mfg a 'specific' kind/style/series of Spectrum Steam locomotives.
Sorry, Mr. Bach Man, I know I promised I wouldn't say anything more, but since Gene is keeping count, I suppose this post can be added to my 400-500 kazillioneth request for that 'certain type of steam' :)
lanny nicolet
I know the Bach-man can say nothing. But one of the woderful things about the internet is that it is hard to keep anything secret. Things are always popping up in websites spilling the beans about some project. I was hoping to hear some speculation and rumors. - Nevin
Now would be the time to produce a USRA type Pacific like this
(http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u134/pdleth/460.jpg)
I think BLI is preparing to offer a USRA light Pacific.
Gene
At the rate BLI/PCM is going, we will most likely never see a USRA light Pacific from them. The latest info on their web site is that they still need more preorders before they can make this model.
But, their new pricing and marketing policies discourage both dealers and consumers from making such commitments.
Just my opinion, but we may not see anything from them that is not already in production or "on the water". I think they are in trouble.
Personally, overall, I feel they made poor choices in what they offered and how they offered it and these products have not commanded the prices they hoped.
Sheldon
Sheldon, I agree 100% with what you say regarding future B.L.I & P.C.M. releases, they have spent a fortune on fancy catalogs showing products that are years away from actually existing, their projected release dates are dreams at best, most products arrive a year or two after the forcast dates yet they continue to advertise more and more new projects. now they have suceeded in alianating their dealers by selling direct at lower prices then the dealers can afford to, and they want us to preorder, I've had a P.C.M. loco "preordered" for almost 2 years now, only to see the projected date keep being pushed back. At this rate they'll be lucky to have the stuff that they've announced so far out by 2012!
They make a great product, but what good is it if they can't deliver?
P.M.
It seems like a good Pacific (Spectrum grade :D) would be a pretty good seller. I sure like the general lines of your photo as a suggestion :)
Maybe something new will pop up on the radar in time for Christmas, since some on the forum are already counting down the days and making out their lists.
lanny nicolet
Come on, y'all, chant with me:
2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 !
( T&P T&P T&P T&P T&P T&P )
Who's driving the Bach-Man crazy? ??? ??? ???
Quote from: MrMunchkin on June 19, 2007, 06:46:27 PM
Sheldon, I agree 100% with what you say regarding future B.L.I & P.C.M. releases, they have spent a fortune on fancy catalogs showing products that are years away from actually existing, their projected release dates are dreams at best, most products arrive a year or two after the forcast dates yet they continue to advertise more and more new projects. now they have suceeded in alianating their dealers by selling direct at lower prices then the dealers can afford to, and they want us to preorder, I've had a P.C.M. loco "preordered" for almost 2 years now, only to see the projected date keep being pushed back. At this rate they'll be lucky to have the stuff that they've announced so far out by 2012!
They make a great product, but what good is it if they can't deliver?
P.M.
Me three! Pre-ordered and Pre-payed for since Oct 06! Really great stuff but bad business practice! Stephen
The complexity of the engines is whats causing the problem. My brother had to send back his "A" as it would not run. Problems with the sound system in the tender. Otherwise, it was a great engine and his new one is an absolute monster when it comes to pulling a train. It has the most realistic sound as compared to the actual "A". His "J" sounds terrible, like there is a hole in the speaker.
I have the BLI N&W Class A, and it is a great puller/runner. I don't care how it sounds, I have the sound turned off. If they actually make the proposed stealth version, I may buy another.
I also have two stealth Reading T-1's (unlettered - now lettered for my Atlantic Central)
Do to their lack of stealth unlettered Mikados, heavy and light, these three are my only BLI/PCM locos.
Sheldon
Given that Bachmann has used MA & PA prototypes for their previous small steam models, it is quite plausible they would make the small MA & PA 2-8-0.
Since it shares many parts with the Roundhouse old-time 4-4-0 and 2-6-0, Athearn has already done most of the work needed to re-release the Roundhouse old-time 2-8-0.
Quote from: pdlethbridge on June 19, 2007, 12:56:48 PM
Now would be the time to produce a USRA type Pacific like this
(http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u134/pdleth/460.jpg)
I hate to tell you but................THAT's not a USRA light Pacific in the photo!
Since Bachmann has done the Ma&Pa 4-4-0 & 4-6-0 I would like to see them do the Ma&Pa "heavy" 2-8-0's #41-42 as they ran in the 1940-50 period. Those are really nice, chunky looking Connies that would really fit in on a lot of smaller layouts too.
We could also use the Ma&Pa passenger/head end cars as no one makes a really nice open platform wood style car. The MDC/Athearn/Horizon cars aren't that great. Craftsman kits are the only way if you can find them.
My 2¢,
Roger
I agree, Roger, that the photo is not a USRA, though it is a nice light Pacific that would make an excellent model. I don't really see Bachmann doing another 2-8-0 anytime soon. They've done quite well with the one they've got. Don't get me wrong--I'd love to see a Spectrum Ma & Pa "heavy" Consol, but I expect they will do something like a Pacific or Mike. Some, inlcuding me have suggested a Harriman-style loco, which would fit in with a lot of western roads. We'll have to wait patiently and see.
Quote from: pdlethbridge on June 19, 2007, 12:56:48 PM
Now would be the time to produce a USRA type Pacific like this
(http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u134/pdleth/460.jpg)
Roger's right; that's not a USRA engine. It's a Harriman-Standard Pacific. I'd be happy with one, as I'm sure all of us other IC fans would be (and Alton, UP and SP too, I suppose)
Hmm...well, looking at the Bachmann catalog, about the only thing they don't make is a Heisler, an 0-4-0 and an 0-8-0.
But Bachmann SHOULD come out with a few new engines. Their Pacific is a Pennsy-only engine, their Mike is Chinese, and their Moguls and Praries are really nothing more than REALLY badly done USRA 0-6-0s.
I feel that Bachmann should come out with, in this order:
1) Harriman-Standard 2-8-2
2) Two truck shay
3) Harriman-Standard 4-6-2
4) Brooks 2-6-0
5) Harriman-Standard 4-4-2
6) NYC H-5 class 2-8-2
7) Richmond 1870s 4-4-0
8) Harriman-Standard 0-6-0
9) 52" drivered 2-8-0
10) 20-30 ton Heisler
There. That should cover all the bases.
Ray,
You left out the three most obvious ones, locomotives that Bachmann already has parts - like the tender - for:
C&O F-17, 19
C&O H-7
C&O K-3
Gene
Hi Roger,
'Yup', you're absolutely right! That is not a 'USRA' Pacific and that's what makes it so appealing to me! :D
All kidding aside, I honestly do find it very strange that with the many mfg that create high quality plastic today, no one seems to have picked up on the need/desire/want for a Harriaman style steam locomotive, both in 2-8-2 and 4-6-2 series, perhaps in others as well.
The reality is that there are quite a few RR that at one time or another, used this style of motive power (besides the ICRR :). To me, it is rather strange that no mfg. to date has made a really good (Spectrum quality) Harriman locomotive (with the exception, I should say, of Spectrum's Consolidation - and someone recently told me that the P2K 2-10-2 recently out is close to the lines of at least the early versions of an ICRR 2-10-2. I think Orsonroy made some ICRR related suggestions to them when that was in the works).
I'm far from a 'model historian' so I may certainly be overlooking 'vintage' models that are Harriman style. I think Bowser has a Pacific (NYC) that may be simialr to a Harriman style ... but I don't enjoy working with cast metal. Plastic is so much easier to super detail! To me, metal is a pain, to work with.
lanny nicolet
I would buy several of ALL the locos listed by Ray and Gene.
Sheldon
I would still like to see Southern Pacific P-8 #2472:
(http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/2902/pa140288zm0.jpg)
Here's a vote for a bit of a oddball the Norfolk & Western's class M1 4-8-0 Mastodon :-*
Quote from: GN.2-6-8-0 on June 21, 2007, 11:01:45 PM
Here's a vote for a bit of a oddball the Norfolk & Western's class M1 4-8-0 Mastodon :-*
That was a weird one. It had roller barrings too.
Bach-man,
Nothing says "We love steam modelers" more than a nice "generic" Harriman standard 2-8-2! I can imagine the happy UP, SP, NYC guys, at a minimum, that would welcome it. Us IC guys wouldn't be too disappointed either ;)
Cheers,
Brad
I had someone tell me that in a MRC cataloge or something like that, that Bachmann is releasing a 4-4-0 with sound. But I highly doubt it unless its On30.
a 35 to 45 ton Heisler surely
Peter Smith, Memphis
Good Morning All,
This topic is one of the ones that has been around in some forum, er, form or another since I came to this forum several years ago and always draws a lot of ideas.
The one problem that many of us face is the fact that we not only talk about wheel arrangement, but also railroad specific and that is where, I fear, our hopes start to diminish. As was stated, I would love to see an N&W 4-8-0 but there is a wheel arrangement that many U.S. railroads did not use. The same would go for my dream of an EBT 2-8-2 in On30. Manufacturers like Bachmann need to generate sales and to go railroad specific, unless it is Pennsy or Santa Fe, probably will not yield the desired results.
So with that in mind, let's talk specifically about wheel arrangement for a moment.
The only 4-8-2 that Bachmann does is the K4, Pennsy prototype, so that is a wheel arrangement that may be interesting to see, as would the 2-8-2 since only the Chinese engine is now offered.
Let me suggest that there is probably a market for some of the following. How about an 0-4-0, 0-6-0, 0-8-0, 2-6-0, or 2-6-2? Now I realize that someone already offers one or two of these wheel arrangements, but that does not mean that more than one manufacture cannot offer a product also.
So.....keep on contributing, because it makes interesting reading and possibly, something that someone suggests will be done to the delight of all.
Bob
Quote from: ebtbob on June 25, 2007, 06:41:40 AM
This topic is one of the ones that has been around in some forum, er, form or another since I came to this forum several years ago and always draws a lot of ideas.
The one problem that many of us face is the fact that we not only talk about wheel arrangement, but also railroad specific and that is where, I fear, our hopes start to diminish. As was stated, I would love to see an N&W 4-8-0 but there is a wheel arrangement that many U.S. railroads did not use. The same would go for my dream of an EBT 2-8-2 in On30. Manufacturers like Bachmann need to generate sales and to go railroad specific, unless it is Pennsy or Santa Fe, probably will not yield the desired results.
That hobby business model is no longer valid. In the "bad old days" of the hobby (say 1960 through 1990) the commonly accepted wisdom was that only "generic" models would sell, since they weren't prototype-specific. You wouldn't be "insulting" anyone by only offering N&W hoppers, or PRR boxcars, or SAL steam, and could readily decorate the models for any and every roadname out there, and everyone would be happy, since the car wasn't correct for ANY of them. That line of reasoning gave us generic Mantua steam and horrible Tyco, Bachmann (old Bachmann) and Life Like rolling stock.
But these days are different. If a model isn't specific to SOME prototype, it won't sell. Modeler's tastes have become accustom to prototypically correct rolling stock and (especially) engines, and generic won't fly. Most manufacturers these days will even produce models that are VERY narrow in scope. Intermountain and Red Caboose are doing this in a big way by coming out with rolling stock that's appropriate for ONLY one road, and they're selling well. Branchline has taken a prototypically correct "generic" 1944 AAR boxcar design and has tooled different ends, doors, roofs, and even brakewheels to match specific prototypes. Even Bachmann has come out with proto-specific steam models with all of their new releases.
BLI showed the industry that it IS profitable to come out with VERY narrowly defined models. When they came out with the PRR T-1 they didn't sell it with ATSF lettering, because they knew that the engine would stand on its own merits and sell out, even if it was of a peculiar prototype. They've shown us with a dozen or more models that this new business model does work with engines as well as cars.
So Bachmann CAN come out with proto-specific steam models in the future. And it's not like the industry's run out of prototypes that can correctly be decorated in multiple paint schemes. The Harriman line of engines came in more wheel arrangements than the USRA engines, and they haven't been touched since MDC in the 1970s. Some Lima and Alco superpower can be used for several prototypes, especially the early Berkshires. And all of the large steam manufacturers had large catalogs of stock designs. So we're nowhere near tapped out of good models to produce!
QuoteLet me suggest that there is probably a market for some of the following. How about an 0-4-0, 0-6-0, 0-8-0, 2-6-0, or 2-6-2? Now I realize that someone already offers one or two of these wheel arrangements, but that does not mean that more than one manufacture cannot offer a product also.
I think that except for the 0-8-0, all of the above are great choices. Bachmann has become a hero in the hobby by focusing on smaller, more typical steam engines, rather than on the huge and comparitavely rare "show pony" engines. The 0-8-0 is the only engine they'd lose their shirt on; P2K did suck a perfect job with their USRA 0-8-0 (the most popular single engine design in the USA) that no one will be able to touch their market share with that wheel arrangement.
I wouldn't be too quick to use B.L.I. as an example of the profitability of prototype specific steam locos as they sure seem to be struggling at the moment, wanting us to preorder products that are years down the road and not commiting to produce them untill they get a minimum number of orders, which anyone would be crazy to do considering that they can't even get the ones that they are commited to market. I think it would be great if and when they do go bellyup if Bachmann or Walthers would buy the assets at the auction and put the resourses and management knowhow that they need in place so that maybe someday I can get my Decapod.
Oh ..one loco that Bachmann could do easy would be the K4 streamlined version, they already have the mechanism, all they need is the shell.
P.M.
Bob,
I respectfully disagree. All the Spectrum steam has been modeled after a specific prototype - in some cases a VERY specific prototype (the Ma&Pa 4-6-0 and 4-4-0).
It seems that the Bachmann philosophy is to model a specific locomotive, but pick one that with a few detail changes can make a believable model of others.
Given this, I think it best to suggest very specific prototypes, and note how many similar locomotives there were to it.
That's different than my old argument of making a D&H 4-8-4 and then using it to make a MILW and Rock Island model (which is what ALCo did with the prototype). In the Bachmann case, I would suggest something like a B&M B-15 Mogul and show how similar in size and detail they were to other locos.
Rob
PS: And yes, the Harriman locos are an untapped market that deserves to be tapped.
Quote from: ebtbob on June 25, 2007, 06:41:40 AM
Good Morning All,
This topic is one of the ones that has been around in some forum, er, form or another since I came to this forum several years ago and always draws a lot of ideas.
The one problem that many of us face is the fact that we not only talk about wheel arrangement, but also railroad specific and that is where, I fear, our hopes start to diminish. As was stated, I would love to see an N&W 4-8-0 but there is a wheel arrangement that many U.S. railroads did not use. The same would go for my dream of an EBT 2-8-2 in On30. Manufacturers like Bachmann need to generate sales and to go railroad specific, unless it is Pennsy or Santa Fe, probably will not yield the desired results.
So with that in mind, let's talk specifically about wheel arrangement for a moment.
The only 4-8-2 that Bachmann does is the K4, Pennsy prototype, so that is a wheel arrangement that may be interesting to see, as would the 2-8-2 since only the Chinese engine is now offered.
Let me suggest that there is probably a market for some of the following. How about an 0-4-0, 0-6-0, 0-8-0, 2-6-0, or 2-6-2? Now I realize that someone already offers one or two of these wheel arrangements, but that does not mean that more than one manufacture cannot offer a product also.
So.....keep on contributing, because it makes interesting reading and possibly, something that someone suggests will be done to the delight of all.
Bob
In the thread of any new steam the post of a Maine Central 4-6-2 was suggested to be a USRA which of course it isn't, but it was also suggested to be a Harriman Standard 4-6-2. I'm dubious about that idea, but I don't know MEC steam power. However, it does illustrate how important a light engine with a straight boiler could be useful to many modelers who only seem to get stuck with the same old USRA locomotives. Such engines could be used for modelers of many different lines that had engines older than USRA designs. Southern 4-6-2s, for example came in light versions long before the PS4 appeared. The first IC Pacifics were light engines with relatively straight boilers.
My preference, of course, would be for a Harriman 2-8-2.
George Waltershausen
When I posted the picture, I stated it was a USRA like pacific, not a USRA pacific. It has simple lines and add something here or there, different tender, and you have the potential for something.
"Now would be the time to produce a USRA type Pacific like this," is what you wrote. I would take that to mean the picture is a USRA Pacific.
Gene
Thats not what I meant, I should have used like rather than type ; :) picky..picky..picky ; :)
I called up this site this morning to add a suggestion for a Ma & Pa #26-ish addition to the Bachmann stable! ...and, Viola'! Failing that, even #s 42 and 43 would be OK. But a die-cast ver. of the old PFM consol.? The Bachmanns could stop thinking trains for a while and buy a Learjet! To those who might gripe about the preponderance of Ma & Pa...Hey! Baldwin was their 'Bachmann'.
Off topic but:
Some of the posts on this thread take 1-1/2 screens wide, and I have to scroll back and forth to read. Is that because the poster has a 55 inch super wide screen with resolution set to 10,000, or what? I thought the screen size was set by this server.
Bo
Pdlethbridge,
There is an old edition of the Bible where the printer accidently left "not" out of the Seventh Commandment.
Makes all the difference in the world. ;D
Gene
A better way to say it was USRAish ;D ;D ;D
A better way to say it was USRAish Grin Grin Grin
Yep. That would line the points up just right.
Gene
I'd dig some Harriman on my pike.
I model SP, UP, and D&RGW.
Only problem is the only D&RGW models I can find that are from 1930-1956 are ALCO PAs, F7s and other diesels, galloping geese, and, well thats it.
Bring on Harriman mikes and pacifics!
An honest question.
It seems obvious that far more than those of use who are 'raving ICRR maniacs' would like to see Bachmann develop a Harriman style steam locomotive. I've been amazed at the constant requests for such a locomotive, with virtually everyone that suggests it, also mentioning the added value of 'kit bashing' it into whatever particular RR they would like.
It seems to me to be 'more than obvious' that there is a 'large' market out there for a 'Harriman' style steam locomotive.
So the question is ... do 'we' start 'flooding' Bachmann in Philadelphia with requests rather than (or 'along with') flooding this forum with those requests? I plan to do this. Even thoug postage went up, it would be worth a 'few bucks' to send such a request periodically to Bachmann.
It seems to have some effect in politics ... i.e. 'write your congressman' ... perhaps it would have a similar effect on Bachmann?
Could someone suggest the department or specific name of the individual to whom such communications might be addressed?
Thanks!
lanny nicolet
I think Johann has mentioned that Mr. Reiley is the Decider at Bachmann. While I'm probably not in the market for any Harriman locomotives, I agree that it is an untapped market and the first company to broach it is in for a ton of sales.
Gene
I agree with Gene. I wouldn't mind a couple Harriman mikes... and pacifics...
I do model two roads that used them...
I'd be thrilled. I'd need one SP, one UP, of each. Maybe two of one road.
That'd be cool!
Hi Gene,
Thanks for the name ... you mentioned that "I think Johann has mentioned that Mr. Reiley is the Decider at Bachmann".
What is Mr. Reiley's title (in order to proper write a letter and address the envelope? And is it 'Reiley' or 'Rieley' (sp?)
Thanks Gene ... or anyone.
lanny nicolet
I thought it was Mr. Riley.
I have no idea... ??? Don't worry, I confuse myself quite alot.
Dear All,
Mr Riley is Vice President of Product Development.
Have fun!
the Bach-man
HA! I was right!
Well, did you pass on the request?
Let's hope so... I need (As stated twice before) two or three mikes and pacifics...
I think on one of our threads (some time ago) perhaps about the 4-4-0 before it went into production, the Bach-Man stated that they didn't plan to manufacture items that a direct competitor was already marketing. If that is the case, both the 0-6-0 and 0-8-0 would be no-shows - P2K already does those. I think perhaps we should look at what Bachmann has already created in other scales? Perhaps an HO version of the On30 Forney? I would purchase a couple of Spectrum quality 2-6-0's if they were available, but I think that Athearn/MDC-Roundhouse is re-manufacturing theirs (although their stuff isn't nearly as nicely detailed). Right now I'm content with my "pool" of 4-6-0's and 4-4-0's as well as the connies that were produced. I'm sure that whatever they come out with in the Spectrum line will be a hit.
I've heard that there may be a triplex in the future and the two names I've heard are Bachmann and Atlas. Though NKP never had a triplex I may be tempted to purchase one.
Why would anybody build a model of a triplex? There were only three from two railroads, IIRC - Erie and Virginian - and they were all failures.
Gene
But Gene,
Just think how nice a triplex would looked double headed with your 'Big Boy' on your new layout hauling 3,000 or so hoppers upgrade :D
sorry, Gene, I just couldn't resist ;D
lanny nicolet
You'll catch me changing to all modern first!
Gene
Does anyone know of a webpage containing a diagram of the Maine Central Lt. 4-6-2 shown on the first page? The MC 4-6-2 looks similar in size to the ACLO Lt 4-6-2s owned by the FEC and L&N (ex L.H.&St.L). I'm curious to know how closely the MC locomotive dimensions compare to the FEC and L&N locomotives (the latter two share many key dimensions). IF found to be similar, Bachmann would be able to offer a 4-6-2 for the MC, L&N, FEC (ACL, L&A, and a myriad of southeastern shortlines that purchased FEC 4-6-2s) in addition to any other railroads found to own similar ALCO 4-6-2s. Bachmann's willingness to offer variations in details such as valve gear, cabs, tenders, etc. would make the ALCO Lt. 4-6-2 a viable candidate for a future model. Oh well I guess we all have our own favorite locomotive wish list - mine being Baldwin Lt 4-6-2s, 0-6-0s, 2-8-0s, etc.........). Thanks in advance for any feedback on the MC locomotive diagram.
Buddy Hill
i think that there is a major void in all affordable good quality loco lineups (not just b-man) i think that this void may only be filled with... (oh boy here it comes again some might say... ;)) CANADIAN STEAM! i think that b-man could definatly use a nice u2-g , u2-h or u4-a northern or a u1-f bullet nosed betty as all of these locos frequently hauled cnr "pool trains" to many us cities so the demand for them would not necissarily only be north of the border
in the mean time... let us canadians hope for the best! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
The ALCO light 4-6-2 used by the FEC would be an excellent choice. It is generic enough to be similar to Pacifics used by many railroads. Also, these have never been produced before, not even in brass. It should be noted that a number of them survive today. Two outside of Miami in their original FEC livery, one in Albany Ga (Georgia Railroad), on in Duluth Ga (Savannah & Atlanta) and on in the Midwest somewhere. A historical note is that the ex-FEC 4-6-2 which became Savannah and Atlanta #750 was a key engine in the early days of Southern RR steam excursion (1970's and early 1980's)
Eric
Good evening Mr. Bach-man, Mr. Riley and all.
I would like to reply to several replies in this post , so please bear with me.
Bob Rule, Jr. mentioned something about 0-4-0s, 0-6-0s, 0-8-0s, 2-6-0s.
He also mentioned something about being rail road specific, and prototype specific steamers. I don't want to retype his whole post as a quote, so I just thought I'd mention some of his post.
I agree with rail road specific steamers. However, unless you go to brass models, and not that every one has the money for a brass steamer in any scale, not even ( I don't own one, might like to purchase one, and have only seen a picture of one on this site) Mr Bach-mans' new connie in HO scale is not rail road specific ( unless there are engines that have a small package of parts to add on to the locomotive.)" How can I say that?" you ask.
I model A.T.S.F from 1950 to the BNSF merger in 1995. Any time that a certain manufacturer has made a model of a Santa Fe steamer, the engine number boards are left off the engine. Also, on the back and sides of most of the tenders, except for the slope back switcher, the numbers are not on the tender, along with the fuel/boiler capacity. The other mistake most manufacturers have made is decaling the locomotive cab sides with numbers, instead of a small A.T.S.F. The old Model Die Casting/ Roundhouse before Athearn acquired them has a 2-8-0, rail road specific, but not modernized.
I am not in the market for Harriman style locomotives, either. I suggest if Bach-man Industries comes out with any more steam locomotives, and everyone is crying out for railroad specific steamers, that Bachman Industries at least include a small package of parts that is railroad specific to that particular railroad/ locomotive that the locomotive is modeled after.
Just my thoughts on this, and I am not, repeat, not trying to hurt anyones' feelings on this idea. Thanks for letting me bend your ears, and I must apologize for such a very long post. Hope everyone has a pleasant evening.
ATSF5700BOB
Home of the Saint Louis & Santa Fe in HO scale
Home of the seasonal Pine Tree Central in three rail "O" gauge
Hmmm...where to begin with this one...
Quote from: ATSF5700BOB on July 17, 2007, 08:48:21 PM
Bob Rule, Jr. mentioned something about 0-4-0s, 0-6-0s, 0-8-0s, 2-6-0s. He also mentioned something about being rail road specific, and prototype specific steamers.
I agree with rail road specific steamers. However, unless you go to brass models (and he trails off here....)
The era of completely generic models is LONG dead. Nobody wants a completely freelanced freight car, diesel, or steam engine. Based on how modelers are spending their money, we all LIKE an engine or boxcar to be a prototype of SOMETHING, even if it's not necessarily always lettered correctly. The tooling costs are the same for a prototype-specific versus a generic (and fictitious) steam engine, so why wouldn't a manufacturer make an engine that's at least very close to something that really existed? The customers are saying that they prefer these sorts of models...with their dollars.
Quotenot even Mr Bach-mans' new connie in HO scale is not rail road specific
Actually, you're wrong: it is prototype-specific. At least it's about 80% prototype specific for about 100 2-8-0s that ran on the Illinois Central, one of the largest railroads on the planet (and I need to do a little more research, but I think that the engine is a standard Harriman heavy Connie design, which makes it appropriate for the SP and UP as well)
And you're missing the point about "prototype specific" models. A model should be (as I've noted above) as close to possible to SOME engine that truly existed in real life. The Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0, that most modelers call "generic", isn't really generic, and fits the criterion of "prototype specific" pretty well. In fact, the 2-8-0 was Bachmann's first Spectrum line steam engine, and EVERY release after that one has been prototypically specific to at least some engine that really existed.
Quoteunless there are engines that have a small package of parts to add on to the locomotive.
Prototype specific doesn't mean "superdetailed". An Accurail six panel, single sheathed, composite boxcar model IS prototype-specific (it's another IC model), but it's detailing is crude as compared to a resin kit or an Intermountain boxcar. It's up to the MODELER (and this is MODEL railroading) to add any missing details. Heck, even brass engines can use some added or corrected details by my standards.
QuoteI model A.T.S.F from 1950 to the BNSF merger in 1995. Any time that a certain manufacturer has made a model of a Santa Fe steamer, the engine number boards are left off the engine.
Not true. Check out BLI's ATSF 2-10-2, 2-10-4 and 4-8-4. They all have the train number boards on them. Even Roundhouse's old metal steam kits came with a (crude) number board casting.
QuoteAlso, on the back and sides of most of the tenders, except for the slope back switcher, the numbers are not on the tender, along with the fuel/boiler capacity. The other mistake most manufacturers have made is decaling the locomotive cab sides with numbers, instead of a small A.T.S.F. The old Model Die Casting/ Roundhouse before Athearn acquired them has a 2-8-0, rail road specific, but not modernized.
None of these omissions or inaccuracies make a model "not prototypically correct". They make the models badly or inaccurately lettered, but that's something that a MODEL railroader can easily fix.
QuoteI am not in the market for Harriman style locomotives, either. I suggest if Bach-man Industries comes out with any more steam locomotives, and everyone is crying out for railroad specific steamers, that Bachman Industries at least include a small package of parts that is railroad specific to that particular railroad/ locomotive that the locomotive is modeled after.
That's not going to happen. As modelers have been voting with their dollars for high-quality prototype-specific models, they're also voting for RTR "no assembly required" models. The numbers of us MODEL railroaders who actually add aftermarket (or even add-on) details is shrinking pretty quickly. Bachmann's not going to bother with wasting their capitol by adding a huge baggie full of all sorts of detail parts to cover dozens of prototypes. That's what Bowser, Precision Scale, PIA and Greenway are for.
Quote from: oldline1 on June 20, 2007, 11:40:48 AM
I hate to tell you but................THAT's not a USRA light Pacific in the photo!
Since Bachmann has done the Ma&Pa 4-4-0 & 4-6-0 I would like to see them do the Ma&Pa "heavy" 2-8-0's #41-42 as they ran in the 1940-50 period. Those are really nice, chunky looking Connies that would really fit in on a lot of smaller layouts too.
We could also use the Ma&Pa passenger/head end cars as no one makes a really nice open platform wood style car. The MDC/Athearn/Horizon cars aren't that great. Craftsman kits are the only way if you can find them.
My 2¢,
Roger
like Reading's 2-8-0 like they had in the past for standard only upgraded, perhaps even spectrum if we're lucky, i love the heavy READING connie look :D
you mentioned a heisler for HO gauge, somewhere in the 20-30Ton range? I got a perfect example of a fully restored 28Ton 2-truck standard gauge.
<img Src="http://download.lavadomefive.com/members/RDFlambouyant/hidden/Passumpsic.jpg">
Incidentally, If anyone is going to be in the area of St. Johnsbury/Barnet, Vermont on Sept. 9th, we will be running the steam locomotive. It's the owner's birthday, so we're making it another 'historic' run. I'll be on crew, but armed with the video camera. Occasionaly I'll be on the pilot deck recording more for our portfolio.
If the above image didn't load, here's the link to the photograph.
http://download.lavadomefive.com/members/RDFlambouyant/hidden/Passumpsic.jpg
Thanks y'all,
Bob
I feel bachmann should add to their (small) line of HO Scale standard gauge logging locomotives, with two truck shays, 2 & 3 truck Hieslers, and 2 & 3 truck Climaxes, and 150 ton 4 truck shays. (Those actually did exist!!! Look! (http://www.gearedsteam.com/shay/sc_class_d.gif) )
Well, of course the 3-truck Shay and 2-truck Climax are already here. A Hiesler would round out the trio. It has been said that Bachmann will annouce new products at the NMRA Train Show, which is at the end of this coming week. So look for something on the home page either Friday or Monday.
Good morning all! I just wanted to reply to something Orsonroy responded to in my post.
I meant to say that in the past, most, not all plastic steam engine manufacturers weren't A.T.S.F. specific. In the past, most manufacturers of plastic steam locomotives and some diesel locomotives would turn out a steam or diesel engine in plastic (even if Santa Fe never owned one of the
particular models that were being produced), slap an A.T.S.F. or Santa Fe decal or rubber stamp on the locomotives flanks, and away the manufacturer would go. I guess what it is really all about is how each modeler looks at the prototype and then decides how to model a particular lrailroad, steam engine or whatever. It is that we the modelers have to decide what is fun for our own interests. That is what model railroading is really all about.
I know nothing about BLI. I have never owned an engine by them. I might have considered purchasing one. I even looked into it, and called the company. I couldn't get the one I wanted because I was short on funds at the time, I had never heard of them before, and it was [ and I am not inferring here that BLI is brass, I don't know what they are made of (like most manufacturers who make brass models)], a limited run.
At any rate, thanks for your informative reply, Orsonroy, and I look forward to chatting with you again.
Bob
Quote from: ebtnut on July 22, 2007, 10:52:03 AM
Well, of course the 3-truck Shay and 2-truck Climax are already here. A Hiesler would round out the trio. It has been said that Bachmann will annouce new products at the NMRA Train Show, which is at the end of this coming week. So look for something on the home page either Friday or Monday.
Do you mean in HO? Because the only climax I saw was ON30. (There may be on in Large scale, but I don't know.
Quote from: Jake on July 22, 2007, 10:27:42 PM
Quote from: ebtnut on July 22, 2007, 10:52:03 AM
Do you mean in HO? Because the only climax I saw was ON30. (There may be on in Large scale, but I don't know.
Bachmann have released a HO two truck climax, however it is not shown in the current catalogue. (They also released a Large Scale Climax, again not current). Originally Bachmann announced both 2 and 3 truck climaxes, but only the 2 truck ever appeared. Perhaps the 3 truck will now arrive to replace the 2?
Hamish
Oh... That'll teach me to read the announcements. :-[
2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4 ! 2-10-4
ATSF! ATSF! ATSF! ATSF! ATSF! ATSF! ATSF!
An ATSF 2-10-4 would not be bad, as the Pennsylvania Railroad leased a number of these. This of course would be my excuse for buying one and putting on my Pennsy themed layout.
Eric
The results are in !!! It's it's just what we all been LOOKING for, another Lima Bershire [kanawha].
Quote from: talkingqhead on July 29, 2007, 10:36:07 PM
The results are in !!! It's it's just what we all been LOOKING for, another Lima Bershire [kanawha].
Yeah...odd that a Berk hasn't ever come up on one of these wishlist threads, yet that's what we wound up with. Guess Bachmann doesn't pay any attention to us after all...
I didn't think they'd do it because of the Proto 2-8-4. It does have the obvious advantage that there are several of them left, some of them, like PM 1225, still operable. And PM 1225 was the basis for The Polar Express.
The pictures sure look good.
Gene
I feel the same way, Ray. Does Bachmann really 'listen' ... are they really interested in what a lot (it seems to me) of potential customers are telling them?
Though I don't mind seeing a Bachmann 2-8-4 (with a tremendous amount of kitbashing it probably can be made to resemble the early super power ICRR Berks)
But why, oh why, is there not the slightest indication that any 'dent' has been made regarding Harrian style steam ... no one is doing it and there is an obvous market for it from East to West coast.
<sigh>
lanny nicolet
>:( I agree Lanny, now you see why lately Proto 2000 has been getting my modeling funds and not Bachmann,I don't think I will ever have use for a Berk.
Stephen
Morphine after laser surgery tomorrow yes, a berk no.
For new Ho Steam Locomitves I would like the following to be made in ho.
Milwaukee Class A 4-4-2
ATSF Blue Goose
Western Pacific Gs6
Southern Pacific Gs2
I'm not sure when they scrapped the Road A class. Was it still around for the 1955 Olympic Hi?
Gene
TO ALL MEMBERS....there is still hope....
Only one steamer was announced by bachmann in the spectrum line. But I don't think all hope for smaller engines in the spectrum line are gone. There's still a chance for one. Remember. We have another round comming in October. I'm getting close to kit bashing a 4-4-2 unless Bachmann makes one.
The Milwaukee Road Class A locomotives were streamlined locomotives. For more information go to this website http://donsdepot.donrossgroup.net/dr038.htm
Yes, they were also bunker C fired and the largest Atlantics ever built. IMHO they were not the ugliest streamlined steamers produced, but they came close.
Gene
I would like it if bachmann did the 4449 in the BNSF scheme. Photo of the 4449 in BNSF scheme: http://wasteam.railfan.net/portland/0049_12d.jpg and bachmann to make Santa Fe 3751 in ho.
according to pictures from the NMRA convention in Detroit bachmann is supposed to have a NKP type berkshire
Just what we need a rival to P2K another van swerigan Berk
how about an erie s class?