my aim is obviosly not to set anything on fire but to stop unwarrented shut downs every 3 min.

In my circle of freinds, we all use Kaydee couplers. We do this so we can run any thing we want any where we want, and the couplers will match. I should mention that we all use the Kaydee hight gage also.

Probably one of the most sucesfull models ever is the 10 wheeler. I would like to see it up graded to true spectrum standards. and produced in 1:20.3 scale. This would probably turn out to be the most popular engine on most garden railways. Assuming of course it did not get too expensive.

Has any one tryed to defeat the safety shut off circut in the aristo smoke unit? I get so tired of having to stop my K-27 [and others] to re start the smoke. If this could be done it sure would make running trains a lot more fun. Would just have to be very careful not to run out of smoke fluid. Might be wise to install a shut off switch. If I knew any thing about electronics I would rather modify the system to work more reliably. It sure is a neet smoker when it is running.

Untill I installed my snow plow I was able to get two fingers under the smoke box front and the other hand inside the cab and reach the front where it felt pretty solid. Not sure what ai am going to do now. Been thinking about a carrier. As for the plugs I lube them and wiggle them side to side while holding the release catch down. Getting easier all the time.

I think you should think about the effects of reversing the slant on the cylinders.[ at least ck it out ] there may be a hugh problem with clearance issues such as turn out mechanisms. bridges,turn tables,ect.

You could not proove it by me but I have read that the aristo 2-4-2 measures a lot closer to 1.20th than 1.29th  I have seen photos of kit bashed  2-4-2 rogers that have been well weathered and looked like something I would be proud to have on my railroad. Now if I could just get it to run for any lenth of time with out having to clean the wheels....

Norman,  That looks like a very interesting project for a kit bash. I have been looking for something to use that engine for. Thank you.  Phil

I goofed   I was finally able to get into my garage [frozen lock] Mine has an 831 on the rear. sorry  Phil

I have about every thing Bachmann has produced, in Fn3,  and enjoyed it all. some of the small cheaper stuff I bought, knowing it was not top notch, but thought it would be good razor saw fodder. The larger more expensive engines have been very good. some have had their issues. All of those real issues have been adressed by Bachmann in what I consider to be a realistic manner. I some times think some of the guys get a little carried away in voicing real [or not], problems  too loudly before the powers have a chance to check it out and come up with a solution. I am sure glad I dont have to deal with the screw ups caused by an over seas company that I have no control over. Some people go on the old saying " The squeeky wheel gets the oil". I prefer " You catch more bears with honey than vinigar".

Geoff,  Above is correct. Have a good one.   Phil

geoff, I have mine stored in the garage. I will get it out and look at the couplers and get back to you.[tommorow]

I ran mine today on the club layout. The K-27 pulls them just fine on level track. Still not sure about my out door track. I am just about as happy as a pig in  you know what. four of these cars behind the K is about as neet a train as I can stand. Now I need to start the search for passengers. we need to turn some revenue to pay for this new equip.

Has anyone changed to Kaydee couplers yet? I just wonder what coupler works?   They sure are nice cars. Can not wait to try them out. I am thinking they may be too heavy to run all 4 on much of a grade. Might have to sell 2 of them. My 4 ft. radius curves probably wont help either. Long time to spring. Too long!

I would like to see , rather than another new engine, some nice jackson & sharp passenger cars and combines at a price we mere mortals can afford.