Bachmann Online Forum

Discussion Boards => HO => Topic started by: Mikepcc on June 20, 2024, 12:47:17 AM

Title: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: Mikepcc on June 20, 2024, 12:47:17 AM
Recently, I acquired several pieces of older HO Bachmann Spectrum passenger equipment including locomotives and passenger cars. These are used. All are in good shape. All are working. And, all were still in original packaging. I am looking for recommendation on upgrading couplers, trucks and wheelsets. All are DC, and I will not be upgrading to DCC at this time. I have 1 Doodlebug, and 1 each F7A and F7B. Both powered. The are 2 observation cars, and 1 each of coach, diner and combine. These all have X2F couplers and plastic trucks and wheelsets. No interior lighting. These will operate on a modular club layout used for public displays. The club uses 30" curves, and # 6 turnouts. Any help in choosing better couplers, trucks and wheelsets would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: Len on June 20, 2024, 07:41:59 AM
Are the passenger cars heavyweight or streamline? It makes a difference.

Len
Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: Mikepcc on June 20, 2024, 10:17:36 AM
Heavyweight
Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: Len on June 21, 2024, 08:33:14 AM
These trucks should be adaptable to those cars:
https://www.walthers.com/heavyweight-6-wheel-passenger-trucks-type-2411-1-pair

You may find them available from other on-line retailers at lower prices.

If they are from the 1998 production run, Kadee #5 or #148 couplers should work. If not, use the Kadee #27.

Len

Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: Mikepcc on June 21, 2024, 04:07:06 PM
Many thanks for input. My fist summer project can now get underway.
Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: trainman203 on June 21, 2024, 06:33:52 PM
What's wrong with the plastic trucks?
Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: Terry Toenges on June 21, 2024, 06:50:32 PM
I don't know if Walther's trucks can be mounted "as is". Are screw holes in the trucks the same or will something have to be changed.
If I was doing it, I would just go with metal wheel sets and not mess with changing the trucks
Title: Re: Upgrade Passenger Equipment
Post by: trainman203 on June 23, 2024, 05:03:36 PM
That's what I would do.