I am considering the Spectrum 0-6-0T for my mining operation.
I've done a search and found only one thread about its overall running capabilities. Someone had two and one was stopping intermittently. Any other owners have any thoughts on how you like it? I'm more concerned about smooth running than pulling ability (it's a little loco after all).
I've been very happy with my Spectrums and want to keep my run of good luck.
Thanks.
Regards,
Jonathan
You can see my 0 6 0 tank in my avatar.
I have always liked this engine as it is a nice running loco. Originally DC I did convert it to DC probably the most challenging conversion I have done to date. Still runs just as good with DCC. For some strange reason though to get it to activate I have to turn on my Ez commander then turn it off and back on to get it to run.
I think it looks fantastic but know that your labor of love for the Varney 0 4 0 will be hard pressed to compete from a favorite loco stand point :)
NMWTRR,
Thanks for that. I assumed is was a nice locomotive. Though, it's always good to hear from someone who actually puts it to work.
Don't know if the Varney will be my favorite. It's really nice decoration, and close to being operable, but whether it's going to be reliable is anybody's guess at this point. Right now the crosshead links hit the divergent rails in a turnout, causing a short (they hang really low). Still working that one out. :P It will always be a treasure.
I think the 0-6-0T will be better through turnouts. I don't power my frogs so a little longer wheel base will make the 0-6-0 more hands-free around the tipple. There will be a number of #4 and #6 turnouts to negotiate in this area.
Thanks again,
Regards,
Jonathan
I have this loco and it is geared own really nicely. I think somewhere around 50 to 1.
A couple people have put sound in theirs.
Rich
They really aren't good pullers....very light. Mine also needs "spotless" track.
You could pack a lot of bird shot in the loco to add weight. I do that with some small locos.
Rich
Quote from: richg on July 02, 2010, 03:35:48 PM
You could pack a lot of bird shot in the loco to add weight. I do that with some small locos.
Rich
I'll have to check that out when I attempt to put a decoder in. Thanks
I am really happy with mine which I use in light duty yard service. I use all metal turnouts and have no problems with pickup. I have installed Digitrax decoders, both the DZ123 and the DZ125, in these locomotives and have never had a problem. I am curious about what kind of decoder NMWTRR used that he has trouble getting its attention at power up.
Jonathan, you also mentioned an intermittent stopping problem that someone had with one. I am left wondering if his 0-6-0T had also been converted to DCC and if so, what decoder he had used. There really is not much room for a decoder in the early ones and I am left wondering if the fellow used an inadequate decoder in his quest to find one small enough to fit.
Jim
Quote from: jonathan on July 01, 2010, 12:43:46 PM
I am considering the Spectrum 0-6-0T for my mining operation ...
I have six of them ;D the earlier DCC ready versions (I run analog DC). They are great little engines and run smooth and quiet. On my well worn Atlas Snap Track the locos run without the slightest flicker of the meters on my Spectrum Magnum power packs - solid steady power pickup. The reason I have six is because I got them new on eBay for about thirty some bucks apiece. Two are unlettered saved for future projects. Note the small drivers, these are low speed engines. They have nice bright directional headlights. Here are some photos for size comparison:
Cheers, Robert
Here's one with a Rivi Docksider and a Mantua Model Power 0-6-0
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4755664513_0675b3cfac.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4756303458_c580de3cfe.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/4755664569_55b1ebedce.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4140/4755664541_63da08e2bb.jpg)
The front footplates are lined up. The Bachmann loco is longer than the other two and has a nice coal bunker
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4078/4755664615_f574fcbc92.jpg)
Compared to a 40' boxcar
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4082/4756303478_9e709a8de6.jpg)
With a suitable train of Varney/Life-Like coal hoppers
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4756303526_ac765ffe55.jpg)
I installed a Digitrax DZ 125. The toughest part of the whole thing was soldering the connections as they were so close together. I needed to modify my soldering iron tip to ensure when I soldered one wire on I was not unsoldering the wire next to it. Maybe I got a cold solder joint or something. The porblem of getting it to activate and needing to restart the EZ commander doesn't happen all of the time.
If I remember correctly Jonathon is a DC guy. So none of this may apply for his version.
I think they are selling them with DCC already installed no, too.
Thanks, gentlemen.
That's some very useful info.
I am DC, but the club layout is DCC (Digitrax), so Bachmann's dual mode decoders work just fine for my needs. Just started my shopping list for next month's train show. I believe the tanker can move to the top.
I like pipefitter's Rivarossi Dockside (of course). Have you ever noticed, on every Doxie ever made, by every manufacturer, the front, left pilot step breaks off right away? My Varney was like that, and I had to make a step.
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2812.jpg)
Just about every Li'l Joe on ebay is like that. Weird
Regards,
Jonathan
I purchased one of the 'new' Mantua 0-6-0T locomotives about two years ago and was very disappointed with its running. The model is DC and can be best described as a 'growler'. I have lubricated the gears, slides and rods and the darn thing still sounds like it is making cement. Before you ask, a run in didn't help either.
Another problem (at least with the Mantua) is power pickup. The double slip and crossing on the Monks' Island line are Peco Insulfrog units and the 0-6-0T had difficulties with them (I know...I know: always use Peco Electrofrog units). I have relegated the engine to the display shelf as I haven't had any takers at the last 3 trains shows we vendored.
Ray
Quote from: CNE Runner on July 03, 2010, 10:13:33 AM
I purchased one of the 'new' Mantua 0-6-0T locomotives about two years ago and was very disappointed with its running. The model is DC and can be best described as a 'growler'. I have lubricated the gears, slides and rods and the darn thing still sounds like it is making cement. Before you ask, a run in didn't help either.
Another problem (at least with the Mantua) is power pickup. The double slip and crossing on the Monks' Island line are Peco Insulfrog units and the 0-6-0T had difficulties with them (I know...I know: always use Peco Electrofrog units). I have relegated the engine to the display shelf as I haven't had any takers at the last 3 trains shows we vendored.
Ray
I converted my Mantua 0-6-0T into a cab forward 2-6-0 and replaced the two driver with three driver pickups using thin copper clad PC board and half of a Kadee #5 spring.
(http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l267/richg1998/Cab%20Forward/Mantua0-6-0driverpickups.jpg)
Rich
Shame i was not at your show... I have wanted to track one down forever. I had one and loved it but things took a turn for the worst... (The mantua one i mean)
Rich,
Me likey your homemade pick up job. Do you have any more detailed pictures of parts and/or instructions? I have a couple of older models, I've been wanting to experiment with. I haven't been able to noodle out how to install copper/bronze pick ups on a metal frame. At first it seemed not too difficult, but for my simple mind, I couldn't work out how to make a secure, nonmetal bracket to hold the pick up brush, that wouldn't fall off or interfere with the frame or wheels.
Neato.
Regards,
Jonathan
Rich - What did you do to make the locomotive less of a 'growler'? I can [barely] live with the electrical pickup problems - but the gear noise is terrible! I considered attaching some Tomar pick up shoes...something the Bachmann Plymouth MDT could also use...if there were room.
Daylight4449 - I don't want to violate the rules of the forum or I would definitely sell you this engine (it is lettered for the Lectonia & Cherry Valley RR). I will probably send it to a Mantua rebuilder to see if they can regear the little bugger with NWSL gears.
Ray
Mr. Howard Zane was watchin me test run two of these back at a show long ago(year or two) and I think he fell in love with em. They've pulled 5 cars no problem for me. I have 4 of these guys along with a Dockside for street running along my water front when i build a layout
Quote from: CNE Runner on July 03, 2010, 04:28:51 PM
Rich - What did you do to make the locomotive less of a 'growler'? I can [barely] live with the electrical pickup problems - but the gear noise is terrible! I considered attaching some Tomar pick up shoes...something the Bachmann Plymouth MDT could also use...if there were room.
Daylight4449 - I don't want to violate the rules of the forum or I would definitely sell you this engine (it is lettered for the Lectonia & Cherry Valley RR). I will probably send it to a Mantua rebuilder to see if they can regear the little bugger with NWSL gears.
Ray
My Mantua 0-6-0T was purchased from Yardbird Trains about a year ago and might be a newer version than yours. Just a guess.
Mine has a can motor.
If you want to run the loco, you might re-gear with NWSL parts.
I did that with an old 0-4-0T using the MDC 70 to 1 gears from NWSL but the small open frame NWSL motor is mounted in bath caulk for noise isolation. It has a flywheel also.
Rich
Quote from: jonathan on July 03, 2010, 03:17:50 PM
Rich,
Me likey your homemade pick up job. Do you have any more detailed pictures of parts and/or instructions? I have a couple of older models, I've been wanting to experiment with. I haven't been able to noodle out how to install copper/bronze pick ups on a metal frame. At first it seemed not too difficult, but for my simple mind, I couldn't work out how to make a secure, nonmetal bracket to hold the pick up brush, that wouldn't fall off or interfere with the frame or wheels.
Neato.
Regards,
Jonathan
I have some fairly thin copper clad PC board I used and soldered the springs to the PC board then put the PC board in place with five minute epoxy. I tried and fit until I got it right. I used a #30 wire to run power up to the decoder. With the wire and pickups painted black, it is not noticeable.
I can mail you enough PC board if you want to try it yourself. It will take some experimenting as there is right/left movement in the drivers. You want constant connection between driver and pickup while not "forcing" the drivers to one side.
I use a four inch pair of sharp wire cutters to cut the Kadee spring in half. I then solder the spring to the PC board. Attach the PC board and adjust the spring tension. Again, experiment.
Rich
Rich,
I get it, now. Thanks for the explanation. As much as I appreciate your kind offer, I have enough on my plate right now, than to take on another old locomotive. I'm a little burnt out working on the Doxie. Gotta get it finished.
Now... let me show you why I want the 0-6-0T.
When I was building the Varney, I knew I would need a place to run her, if I ever finished her. A dock area wouldn't work on my layout, but a mine would, with switching operations a necessity.
So I removed a hidden 18" radius turnaround in my mountain, and started a mine. The space is very tight. Have a Look:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2815.jpg)
Due to lack of space, I cheated a little bit. The turntable also serves as caboose tracks, aaaand, the aux coal loader is used to load small steam that serves the mine. Nevermind that the Doxie is an oil burner. Actually the Varney and the 44 ton are so small, they can pull a caboose onto the turntable with them. Very convenient.
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2816.jpg)
In the third shot, you can see a #6 turnout coming off the main, then another #6 turnout, creating parallel tracks to the turntable. Loco can pull in a cut of small hoppers (3-5), uncouple, turn on the turntable to the parallel track, then end o' round to the back of the cut, and finally push the hoppers to the tipple. Make Sense?
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2817.jpg)
The last few shots are taken from the backside.
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2820.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2818.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2821.jpg)
That was a long story to say that the Varney doesn't like #6 turnouts with nonpowered frogs (stops dead). The wheel base is long enough to handle a #4 (frog is shorter).
I think the 0-6-0T will fit very well in this little area. It's still under construction, obviously, but the tipple facility already has interior lights.
Enjoy.
And thanks again for the input. I did look at the Mantua, haven't seen a new one running, yet. Unfortunately, Mantua makes a B&O version, Bachmann does not. BTAIM, I still prefer a Spectrum, given my past luck with them.
Regards,
Jonathan
its all right even if we could email each other i am short on funds... ah well.
oh... is it also against the rules to share an email to start a sale... i don't know but it almost was done before. just asking.
Quote from: Daylight4449 on July 03, 2010, 08:17:45 PM
oh... is it also against the rules to share an email to start a sale... i don't know but it almost was done before. just asking.
One thing that is NOT against the rules is to include your email address in your profile. Then people can email you off board about anything they like. I have had an email address on my profile for years but I don't get any more spam to that address than I do to my other addresses.
Jim
Rich,
I think your method of adding pickups to the locomotive wheels is great. Have you tried it out for tender pickup as well? The usual pickup off tender axles is fine, but gives only four wheel pickup. I'm thinking this might be an easy way of getting eight wheel tender pickup.
Jim
Deja Vu.
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN1272.jpg)
Easy to do with plastic trucks. Insulating against an all metal loco is another matter. I agree, Jim. Rich's method looks great.
P.S.
Oh my, found this old Rivarossi in my junk box. Just put couplers on it. Nothing seems broken. Wonder if it runs...
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2822.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2823.jpg)
RichG - I was seriously contemplating sending my Mantua 0-6-0T to Yardbird to see what magic they could work on it. Right now I am starting the process of adding (building) the Sweet Haven district onto the Monks' Island Railway so my limited retirement funds are already allocated...someday though...
Jonathan - Love the mine scene! My wife and I were camping in Tennessee and ran into a guy who put a second deck on his Atlas turntable (made it considerably longer). From the pictures he shared it came out nicely.
Short locomotives do not like longer turnouts with insulated frogs. Actually they don't like insulated frogs period. When I have run the Mantua 0-6-0T, it navigated my #4 Peco Electrofrog turnouts without hesitation. 'Just food for thought.
Ray
Back when Mantua was really Mantua, the 0-6-0T was known as the "Little Six" and the 0-6-0 (with slope-back tender) was called the "Big Six."
Hey, check out the coal bunker on the Rivarossi 0-6-0T--looks a lot like the one on the New Haven shop switcher P.D. Lethbridge found a photo of for the Dockside thread.
Overall look seems to be Baldwin; does anybody know if this engine had a prototype, or did someone do a "freelance" engineering job?
It may or may not run well; could be an indication of how a Rivarossi Dockside would run. Could make an interesting detail project if it runs well, even if you have to shave off things like the generator and air compressor.
Let us know how it runs, and let us know if you have trouble with what look like deep flanges.
I cleaned the Rivarossi, inside and out (lots of goo and fuzz and hair), applied a little lubrication... and she took right off. Runs surprisingly well, as long as its code 100 track (flanges). I could get it to run on code 83, but it's a little rough and you can hear the flanges hitting all the chairs/ties as it goes.
Fortunately, I laid the mine with code 100 track, so I could use some old brass track, and to save on cost, like turnouts, etc.
Remember, how I said I didn't want to take on another old engine? I'm noticing bug bites. And seeing how I just bought a 100-year supply of neolube... Hmmmm...
Still got my eye on the Spectrum, though, you know, just in case. ;D
As a side note, the 44 ton diesel scoots around the mine like nobody's business... super smooth.
Regards,
Jonathan
P.S. How do I get the dust off around the molded on details? Soap and water doesn't seem to take it off.
I've had to deal with things like this in models and occasionally in other thngs, too, like getting an old radio clean, or knobs in your car. Not much to do but use wet and dry swabs (i.e., Q-Tips), old toothbrushes, other small (stiff) brushes such as some artists use, and even wooden toothpicks or matchsticks (let these wooden sticks or picks be wet, it makes them just a little softer to help prevent scratches), and scrub the dust out. Takes time, but it will look much better when you are done, and you shouldn't have to do this job again unless you let it collect dust for another 40 years.
I mentioned about doing this in a car. This is or can be what "auto detailers" do on full-sized autos (and of course, they charge money for it).
One thing to take note of is that some of these older models are not painted, but only have their numbers and lettters printed on the appropriately colored plastic.
Glad it runs well; a lot of things like this didn't!
Quote from: Jim Banner on July 04, 2010, 01:33:22 AM
Rich,
I think your method of adding pickups to the locomotive wheels is great. Have you tried it out for tender pickup as well? The usual pickup off tender axles is fine, but gives only four wheel pickup. I'm thinking this might be an easy way of getting eight wheel tender pickup.
Jim
The idea came from Harold Minkwitz. His idea started with tender picks. I use them in some old time 4-4-0 locos with tender drive.
Also, I modify my Spectrum's tenders for better pickups. I keep the axle pickup but add wheel pickups on the side with no pickups.
I would save his page as a HTML document in your PC. The page below was in his 1905 HO scale ideas but the site went away. He changes subjects and the site goes away.
I have many of his pages stored that are from the 1905 site a couple years ago.
http://www.55n3.org/cars/tender_wipers/
Add this page to Favorites as the subject comes up in different forums about six times a year.
Rich
I saved the instructions. Can't wait to try it out.
Felt the Rivarossi deserved a couple hours of my attention, since it ran well enough.
It now has graphite on the smoke box, a red cab roof, and working lights: two up front, one in the rear.
Three 3.5v bulbs connected in series. As long as I don't go crazy with the throttle, they should be okay.
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2827.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2828.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2829.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2830.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2831.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2832.jpg)
If she keeps running well, perhaps she'll deserve some detailing and a proper paint job.
Regards,
Jonathan
Wow! Is this the same engine? Seriously, you cleaned her up well, and the little touch up in paint looks good, too.
Funny to note this engine apparently had an accident to the left front footboard. . .
Glad it came out so well.
thought I'd seen that engine in Boston.
(http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/nh/nh-s2530vaa.jpg)
jonathan-
One of the problems with the dirt that collects on model railroad gear is that it usually includes some congealed oil or grease, both of which can be a bear to remove. Try a little dishwashing soap (NOT dishwasher soap). It's designed to cut through grease while being gentle on our delicate hands and fingernail paint jobs so it's just what we (you) need.
-- D
Yep, that's what I did: dish soap, hot water, and a soft toothbrush. It took a while, but the old dirt finally came off. I just did the shell. The frame is still, um, weathered. Yeah that's it--it's weathered. ;)
J
Quote from: OldTimer on July 04, 2010, 02:14:08 PM
Back when Mantua was really Mantua, the 0-6-0T was known as the "Little Six."
And the early version, where the entire superstructure (boiler and cab) was one solid piece of cast metal, would pull anything you could tie to its tail. :)
My next project.
Will post the results, when it's done, good or bad.
Thanks for the help.
Regards,
Jonathan
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2964.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2965.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2966.jpg)
P.S. I know... it's not a B&O Loco. Well in my universe... :) Hope I figure out how to get the shell off.
Addendum
First, I didn't understand how very small this loco is, even compared to the Rivarossi 0-6-0T. You warned me.
Test run did not go well. Discovered the crosshead on the right side was not assembled properly.
The crosshead backing plate slipped out of place and would not hold the crosshead on the guide.
A smart man would have returned it at this point. I am not a smart man.
Instead, I lined up all the parts, took a flat needle nose pliers and gently squeezed the rivet
in an attempt to get the backing plate secured.
I also put a tiny drop of epoxy on the rivet and backing plate to hold everything in place.
The repair seems to have worked and the loco has gone around the layout a few times without falling apart.
This loco is a bit noisy, sounds like a wind up toy. Also, it runs kind of jerky, lots of stops and starts.
After removing the shell, I noticed the motor is open frame, not a can. I'm sure that's the reason for the noise.
The motor runs pretty quick, even at 50% power, the loco creeps due to the gear ratio. One screw holds the shell on.
Forward Screw
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2969.jpg)
After removing the screw, lift the front of the shell and slide backwards. The decoder sits in the shell, not glued in.
Decorder is hard wired so no attempt to remove it. Lighting is directed through angled clear plastic,
so no bulbs to deal with.
Two wires were resting directly on the worm gear, so I redirected the wires.
There's plenty of lube, which probably prevented the gear from eating through the wires while I tested it.
The engineer and his chair fell right out when I took off the shell. Glued them back in place.
Things have not gone well up to this point.
Broke Engineer
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2970.jpg)
The right boiler walk was loose. Reglued the walk so it would hold the piping in place. That was successful.
Boiler Walk
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2971.jpg)
Fixed Engineer
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2972.jpg)
Discovered the jerkiness was caused by only half the pick up shoes touching the wheels.
Removed the lower plate, bent the brushes out and reassembled. Big difference.
The loco now creeps along smoothly as a Spectrum should.
Pick Up Brushes
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2974.jpg)
Exposed Carriage
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2975.jpg)
I also neolubed the drive train. Looks nice. No photo yet. No shorts. Whew.
Applied decals and Micro Sol. Masked off the bell and whistle. Discovered I'm out of Dullcote.
Will finish the shell tomorrow.
Put in some window glazing.
Windows
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2976.jpg)
Windows
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2977.jpg)
Will add more coal to the bunker after I dullcote.
Not going to change couplers. The EZ Mates should be fine for a light duty locomotive.
Despite the early problems, the tanker is turning out pretty nice. Should have returned it,
but I'm too far into it to give up. Will publish the final pics tomorrow I think.
Should be able to finish it up tonight or early am.
Regards,
Jonathan
Anything B&O catches my eye! This should be another interesting freelance project! :)
This is a bit unorganized, but if you check out my previous post, starting at "Addendum",
I have added some photos and a progress report on my Spectrum Saddle Tanker.
Hope I don't confuse you too much. :) Thanks
Regards,
Jonathan
Before.
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2967.jpg)
Finished.
I'll have to go over it with some thick glasses, to touch up.
Overall, I'm very happy with the Spectrum Saddle Tank Loco. It's a touch noisy.
After the repairs and some personalization, it is a very useful engine (sic) for my mine.
Will start breaking it in as soon as the weather cools a bit (hot garage).
I don't know how much it will pull, yet. Runs smooooooooth.
Thanks for the help and advice.
Enjoy!
Regards,
Jonathan
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2980.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2981.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2984.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2985.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2986.jpg)
wow!, those are great pictures everyone.
I'm saving up for one my self. i'm gonna make it a reading unit, like this one
(http://www.rr-fallenflags.org/rdg/rdg-s1251s.jpg)
well more like usa trains's, but you get the idea
jonathan-
Wow! Thanks for the before and after pictures. You went from blah to beautiful. I hope you're proud of yourself. You certainly deserve to be.
-- D
Thanks for the kind words, guys. It's all in the wrist. ;D
RBMN #425,
That's a great shot of the Reading unit. I like the detail possibilities.
Be forwarned, this is a really small loco.
I didn't understand how small until I actually held mine.
Let me give a comparison. Here's the Saddle Tank next to a few other locomotives:
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2989.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2990.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2991.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Larger%20Layout%20Photos/DSCN2992.jpg)
I considered adding MU hoses, chains, and a few other doodads,
but my eyes and fingers couldn't tackle this one.
Superdetailing would have to be under a microscope for me.
Regards,
Jonathan
Nice locos Jon, and I especially enjoy your photos. I have one of those Rivi 0-6-0's in the "to do" box. Motor spins but the wheels don't turn. It's a great looking engine that I hope to get to soon.
Robert
Concur that little 0 6 0 really is awesome after all of the work you put into it.
It looks great next its big brothers!
Again, thanks. Your encouragement keeps me motivated.
OK last shot. I added some coal to the bunker. Poor fireman hardly had any left!
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Projects/DSCN2993.jpg)
Regards,
Jonathan
P.S. In retrospect, I believe my loco was dropped, squeezed or otherwise damaged in shipping. All the problems I encountered were on the right side (crosshead, engineer, boiler walk, wire locations, and pick up brushes). Can't blame Bachmann for this. Still believe the Spectrum line of locos are fine models. Glad I was able to make the repairs. For what it's worth.
P.P.S. Started break in process. Runs fine. Still noisy. I can hear something needs lube, can't tell what. Also started pulling a few cars... think I'll stop at 7! :)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2996.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2995.jpg)
(http://i642.photobucket.com/albums/uu146/jsnvogel/Rolling%20Stock/DSCN2994.jpg)
P.P.P.S.
Hope you'll forgive the endless addendums, but I'm creating a record of progress without bumping my thread to the head of the line.
Finally, I applied tiny drops of conductalube to the axles, treads, drive rods, and the backs of the wheels (where contact is made with the pickup brushes). Happy to report all the noises are cured. This Spectrum Saddle Tank Locomotive now runs very smooth, slow and quiet. Moves through turnouts well. It also pulls a little better than I hoped. I only intend to pull 3-5 cars, but it will pull at least 7 cars with no trouble.
Thanks, Bachmann, for another fine locomotive.
Regards,
Jonathan
For what it's worth:
In the October 2010 issue, Model Railroader published a review of the Bachmann Spectrum 0-6-0T. Couldn't tell if they liked it or not. Perhaps the neutrality was the intention.
Anyway, theirs could pull 8 cars. I stopped at 7.
Like mine, theirs was a bit rough at first, but smoothed out after it ran a while. Mine is definitely getting better the more I run it.
Not trying to give free advertising to the magazine, just thought some might find it interesting. I tend to like reading the reviews and peeking at the trackside photos.
Regards,
Jonathan
P.S. also discovered B&O actually did have a couple of O-6-0Ts. Dimensions were quite a bit different than other Tankers, but close enough for gov't work. :)
jonathan-
So who says you can't add two cars and go for the world's record? Seriously, don't apologize for needing to break in your loco. All of our equipment would run more smoothly if we took the time to break it in properly.
-- D
i agree with Doneldon, like my "junker" 0-4-0 which said it can pull 8 cars, what did it pull? 11! little wheel slip and it was on a hill! So no matter what, its all about what you want to run.
I noticed your decals "Silverized" as Microscale calls it. I found that instead of reapplying decals that several coats(allow dry time between each) of MicroSOL solves the problem. useally takes 4-5 coats at the most.
The close up camera catches all!
After applying the first coat of Micro Sol, I notice some of the decal lettering had disappeared (dissolved?). Rather than risk losing more lettering or sharp lettering edges, I went with just the one coat. Then gave the shell a quick once over with dullcote. In person, it looks great. My eyesight isn't near as sharp as the camera.
It takes thick reading glasses and a small magnifying glass for me to see the imperfections. Especially hard to detect anything when the little guy is in motion.
Regards,
Jonathan