I took the advice of some fellow posters and bought a Bachmann GE 45-Ton switching locomotive. I was amazed at how well the 'critter' ran and - after a couple of weeks, am even more amazed. Bachmann has definitely 'knocked one out of the park' with this product and they have my appreciation.
More to the point: I searched the Internet and found a yellow, undecorated version for $81 (the MSRP is $130). Yesterday, I received my new Micro Mark catalog and they are advertising this same locomotive model (painted, undecorated, and their choice of colors) for $72.95!!! Check me on this, but I believe the color choices would be: yellow, red, green, and black...remember Micro Mark chooses.
If you need a smooth running, small switching locomotive the Bachmann Spectrum GE 45-Ton model is the one for you...at $72.95 it is a steal. For those of you with DC layouts: the Spectrum 45-Tonner runs like butter and gives you the option of keeping a good running engine should you decided to transition to DCC in the future. Thank you Bachmann for this product (how about a Spectrum model of either the Davenport or a real Plymouth WDT in HO???).
Regards,
Ray
Congrats, Ray, on discovering the Spectrum line of locomotives!
So far, all my Spectrums have been winners. I even have a couple standard locomotives (former Spectrums) and they run great, too. Some have seen regular service for the past 4 years and are still smooth.
Here's another recommendation for the Spectrums. I also appreciate Bachmann's efforts to produce affordable, fun to operate locos.
Regards,
Jonathan
I love my 45 Tonner as well. I picked up one of the yellow ones at the Springfield show in 2009. They were $75.00 each. I also have a 44 Tonner and a 70 Tonner, both yellow. They all run great but the 75 Tonner is best runner of the group even though it only pulls a few cars, just like the prototype. I am definitely a Bachmann Spectrum lover.
I was hoping someone was going to make a SW1 in DCC ??