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This is just a little post that i made so everyone could predict new Thomas bachmann products for 2019 like H.O. , G scale, & Narrow Gauge.

It's a little hard to predict what's coming out in 2019 when the 2018 announcements haven't even been posted yet...

This time, somebody made a predictions thread BEFORE the announcements get made. This is way too early.

I fully agree with Chaz and TrainFan97. It's one thing if someone started a 2019 predictions thread right after the official 2018 announcements are posted. However, any moment before that just doesn't seem right to me. Consequently, I think that this thread should be deleted as soon as possible because I have feeling that there are going to be many more people questioning why this thread is up, which will only take up more space on the forum and defeats the initial purpose of this thread. Lastly, if this thread gets deleted, I think that the new thread should be titled "Thomas & Friends in 2019" just to keep the consistency, but that's just me.

It'd probably save trouble if there was just an indefinite "Next Bachmann Thomas Predictions" thread to avoid these kinds of scenarios.

Clutter, and people starting unnecessary threads has been getting worse lately.

Honestly, why would you start a 2019 predictions thread when the official 2018 announcements haven't been posted yet? Could you seriously not wait two more weeks before doing so? Posting this thread two weeks before the 2018 announcements even get posted is just premature.

I really think after the 2018 announcements get posted, someone should make a predictions thread with no specific year, so it can be relevant for years to come. It would reduce the need to create a completely new thread for just one specific year.

My honest opinion is that besides waiting until after we have the 2018 announcements posted, is having a separate wishlist thread along with a different thread for predictions too.  We have had both prediction and wishlist threads up before and no one has posted in the main wishlist thread in over four years now:

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,4675.0.html

I think fans expressing what they actually want instead of just what they expect would be more beneficial to fans as well as the moderators on the forum.  After looking at what fans expected for this year and what they actually wanted showed some pretty clear differences, proving that it would really pay off in the long run to allow fans to express both viewpoints.

For example, Norman is a character I want, but not one I expect, due to his lack of roles.

Can we just drop this here, or at least have this thread deleted until this year announcements? ::)

Sitting back on it a bit, I feel like getting our requests for 2019 to be going ASAP probably is a good idea, since it lets Bachmann know quickly where we want them to go next.

Now I'm not saying to go crazy with it, but..

I'm surprised this thread hasn't been deleted.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on February 08, 2018, 06:12:43 AM
I'm surprised this thread hasn't been deleted.

Probably because it's not as harmful as everyone else is making it out to be.

Still, it was premature to post this thread before the 2018 announcements even get posted.


Speaking of which, there's now only one week left!

The only reasons this is not deleted is because i was just still wondering what they would make for next year and i don't know how to delete this.

Since the announcements were released. I would like to see in 2019.

Narrow Gauge
Duncan, Sir Handel, or Peter Sam.
Brake van (blue, red, or brown)
Flatcar
Open trucks (one of two versions)

HO SCALE
Daisy
BoCo (long shot)
Mail truck (brown)
Ventilated van (brown)
Troublesome truck #6

James's Composition and Brake coaches

Here's my predictions:

HO Scale:
Sidney, Daisy (if we're lucky), or Norman (long shot)
Troublesome Truck #6 (tanker)
Explosives Van
Oil Drum Wagon (re-release and repaint of the Paint Drum Wagon)
Red Express Coaches re-release

Narrow Gauge:
Peter Sam
Tipper Wagon
Brake Van (blue and red)

Here is my wish list:

HO Scale
Daisy
Troublesome Truck #6 (Tanker or Ice Cream Wagon Tooling)
Flat Car (2-3 with different loads)

Narrow Gauge
Peter Sam
Brake Van (Red, Blue, & Brown)

Resin Buildings
Narrow Gauge Double Engine Shed
(http://i66.tinypic.com/zlzqjp.png)

Neptune Refreshments
(http://i68.tinypic.com/amwetc.png)

Castle Ruins (Season 7)
(http://i66.tinypic.com/1zd9g1f.png)

Ffarquhar Station
(http://i68.tinypic.com/ek5btj.png)

Other Possibilities
Signal Box Gantry
(http://i63.tinypic.com/dykw7c.png)

Shunting Yard Shed (the shed that Bill & Ben are in)
(http://i64.tinypic.com/2jfakqx.png)

Rheneas Station
(http://i63.tinypic.com/11qjy4i.png)

Narrow Gauge Watermill
(http://i63.tinypic.com/976008.png)

Additionally, I will make a few detailed posts on Daisy, HO Rolling Stock (Specifically Troublesome Truck #6), and the resin buildings at some point down the road. Chaz will be making detailed posts on Peter Sam, the narrow gauge brake vans, and resin buildings as well! Make sure to look out for those  :).

There's quite the humor in the 2018 announcements being so lackluster that people have almost immediately flocked to making 2019 wishlists, in hopes of a better year next year.

I pretty much agree with Daisy being the next HO engine, and Sir Handel, Peter Sam or Duncan being the next OO9 engine.

I'll make a post later on going into greater detail of my current hopes, but I do wanna think on rolling stock options for a bit.

Might as well get one of my promised suggestions done early too, might wait before I throw in the other two I promised a little later.  I do agree though that considering this year's announcements it's best to get thoughts out sooner rather than later.

Well, after a rather disappointing lineup of announcements, I figured now I should get started sharing one of my in-depth thoughts I brought up earlier in the 2018 announcement thread, starting off with range that seems to be doing the best out of three (narrow gauge) starting off by talking about the next big rolling stock demand - brake vans.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/ac/CGISkarloeyRailwaybrakevan.png/revision/latest?cb=20161031123952)
So why should Bachmann look into making brake vans for the narrow gauge range? Well for starters, brake vans are pretty much one of the most iconic pieces of rolling stock in the series. In the narrow gauge line in particular, brake vans are use for both freight as well as passenger trains thus encouraging fans to buy plenty of them.  As well as the fact that there is currently no ready-to-run brake van in OO9 making these have all the more desirable for OO9 modelers.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/ee/GallantOldEngine9.png/revision/latest?cb=20180214192014)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6b/ABadDayForSirHandel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20170530171405)

To add, brake vans also come in different liveries on the show, just like coaches.  It would be a matter of just making three of them in one line-up, which would be blue, red, and brown to go with the respective coaches and vans as well as wagons to go with the brown brake van.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/2c/TalyllynRailwayBrakevanCGI.png/revision/latest?cb=20161107131852)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/23/TalyllynRailwayBrakeVanRWS.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20170607081719)

However, if they wanted to go with something that resembled what is seen on Talyllyn they could always go with the other one that's used in the CGI series as well.  Even though they just have the red one in CGI, it really shouldn't stop Bachmann from making a blue one to go with the recently announced blue coach.  Especially since a blue one with that tooling was also in the Railway Series.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/0b/Granpuff46.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116205925)
Regardless of tooling, either of these would be fairly simple to do and would go great along both passenger stock as well as freight stock. If Bachmann also included these alongside their coaches, fans probably would've been a lot happier with this year's announcements rather than just getting coaches alone.  That doesn't mean that it's too late to start.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/61/ABadDayForSirHandel44.png/revision/latest?cb=20170530174019)
Overall, I feel like that brake vans are pretty much the next essential addition for narrow gauge rolling stock in the Thomas range. Whether they make one or three in different liveries, they are guaranteed to be popular sellers like the slate wagons and like how the coaches will as well. As long as it has the right accuracy from the show or in real life, the sales will be there for narrow gauge brake vans making it a real win-win for both fans as well as Bachmann as a whole.

So now that's over, here are some questions I have openly for fans:

• Would you buy narrow gauge brake vans?
• Which of the brake van toolings I mentioned earlier would you like to see Bachmann make?
• Should they make only one livery or should they make a lineup of them in different liveries?

Leave your thoughts below, and next time I will talk about Peter Sam and then explain why the resin buildings should make a comeback.

I've vouched for Brakevans in the past, and since Chaz has outlined how much of a great option they'd be here, I don't think I'll go into a long post about them, I will say that I prefer the designs of them when they weren't based off the RWS tooling, but I still wouldn't mind it too much if they went the RWS route. I do like both designs, and there'd always be Shapeways if they chose the RWS route. Next year I could see the Brown Brakevan (for freight, and the CGI Red Coaches) being released, along with the Blue Brakevan. I'd save the Red Brakevan for 2020, as to me, having 3 Brakevans released in one year just sounds a little like overkill, but that might just be me.

I trust that Chaz's post about Peter Sam will be better than anything I could produce, as Peter Sam is also my next choice of engine, but I'll say why I personally would like to see him, in a brief summation:

It's no secret that Bachmann have struck gold with this range, I've already seen a few people talk of Talyllyn and Dogloch conversions with Skarloey and Rheneas respectively, and I've already seen a number of Talyllyn conversions (I've yet to see Dogloch ones though). Why do I bring this up? Well most of us are aware that Peter Sam has one of the best renders in the enitre CGI series, and his render is astonishingly accurate to his real life basis, Edward Thomas. Which provides us with the model we desire, and Talyllyn modelers with an RTR Edward Thomas - with a little conversion work.

Now lets add in some stuff I've pretty mush said word-for-word in a post last year: Peter Sam's usage throughout the entire series has been fairly consistent since his introduction, his personality has changed little even during the HiT era, he's also had a lot of lead roles, through the model era, and right into the CGI series, which is important to bear in mind.

Duncan may have a better overall usage in the CGI series currently, but lets not beat around the bush here...Duncan's render is one of the worst currently in the show. Peter Sam's render resembles his basis far more than Duncan's does, which gives Peter Sam a broader appeal to OO9 modelers, and Thomas and Friends modelers alike. Some Thomas modelers may even buy a second model, just so that they can modify one model so they have one Peter Sam with his original funnel, before he got the Giesel variant (which, lets be honest, the RTR model we would get, would have the Giesel design). Also, I don't really see Mattel approving a model of Duncan that doesn't resemble the CGI design for him, but I could be wrong there (I sincerely hope I am), as a model of Duncan that matches his basis more closely will make fans and OO9 modelers in general, far happier than the alternative.

Also quickly, I'd like to say that whilst Sir Handel has a great render too, his usage in the show has been less consistent since the introduction of the CGI series, and his basis is currently undergoing overhaul, so that makes this less likely too. (Though Duncan and Peter Sam are two of my favourite engines so maybe I just have a bias for them).

I think an engine and two Brakevans is enough to expect/put on my wishlist for next year, if however, they do squeeze an extra piece of rolling stock in, I could see it being a "tipper wagon" like we see in Blue Mountain Quarry. I personally would rather see the First Class Red Coaches of the Classic Season (for convenience sake I hereby dub them the "First Class Coaches"), but I feel like two years in a row that only includes Brakevans and Coaches as far as stock goes may seem a bit dull for some fans. Especially since freight trains can often be made more varied and interesting than passenger trains, to they probably appeal more to a younger demographic that way. In any case, I know I personally want the First Class Coaches, but I suspect that if they do get made, the earliest we'll see them is 2020, and I'm okay with that, as I think business-wise, that's the better choice, ultimately. Hopefully the Red Coaches of this year have tooling that's to scale with the Talyllyn Railway Coaches 1-2 (or coach 3), that way the tooling will already exist if Bachmann proceeds to make these coaches in 2020, as TerrenceTheTractor525 has already suggested.

As for HO Scale? Logically speaking the next engine should be Daisy, that's what's in the greatest demand from us fans, and most of us will be ecstatic with her arrival. I'd personally love to see both Harwick Branchline engines made in HO Gauge, over the coming years. I expect we may say Sidney next year, though I can't say I'd be that thrilled with another class 08 shunter recolour. If Bachmann does make a new tooling though, and sticks to their thing with smaller engines, I just hope we see Ryan, not Stanley or Charlie.

I think I'll ponder HO rolling stock a little more before I post my thoughts, much like Sparks. Though I do think TerrenceTheTractor525's suggestion for TT#6 is a good one. I also like the idea of a brown van that uses the Mail Car's tooling...but this will require more thought - I consider these options more of a "what I want", as opposed to "what is likely".

Moving onto Resin Buldings:
Well if we're to go off that strawpoll I created months back (link here: http://www.strawpoll.me/14346400 (http://www.strawpoll.me/14346400)) the Narrow Gauge engine shed currently sits at 25% of the vote, and is it any wonder, really? These sheds have been around since seasons 4 & 5, they're iconic to us as fans, and would provide easy storage for two little engines. This was honestly my favourite pick of the resin opetions in my own poll. I don't feel I have to argue this one too hard...I feel like the appeal is relatively obvious, correct me if I'm wrong though.
My personal favourite design of this shed is still this one: http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Duncan_Gets_Spooked/Gallery?file=DuncanGetsSpooked40.png (http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Duncan_Gets_Spooked/Gallery?file=DuncanGetsSpooked40.png)
Someone can probably make a better case for them but I can, however I can put forward a better argument at a later date if need be, I can't have this post getting too long, can I? :P

Other favourite ideas of mine also include the Ruined Castle (as seen in the Classic Seasons and CGI Era) on the Castle Causeway (surprisingly, this got no votes), and Ffarquhar Station (As Per Classic Seasons) (sharing 18% of the vote, also my second favourite idea). With the 4-track Signal Gantry and the Shunting Yard Shed as the next runners-up.

As for Large Scale? I have no idea what to expect, I don't have any intentions of collecting the range, but its clear to me that the engines in the most demand are Diesel, Edward, Mavis, Bill and Ben - in terms of engines with small enough wheelbases to be made - personally I think any of them are a good choice - hopefully Diesel isn't actually canceled and there was just an error in the catalogue printing - though I somehow doubt that unfortunately. As for LS Rolling Stock? The Red Branchline Coaches are easily the best rolling stock choice. Plow Bender made a great post about them on page 16 of the 2018 predictions, it can be found here: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,33422.240.html (http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,33422.240.html)
Honestly, just read his post there, it sums up my thoughts too. However...if we're to get a bit more outlandish, I think that range would benefit from a Mail Car...but that may be pushing things a tad, I understand.

Sorry about my section on potential resin lineups and large scale being pitifully short, I didn't want this post to be too long.

~Alex

Wow! That was fast! Great work Chaz! It is always a pleasure reading through your in-depth posts.

(http://i68.tinypic.com/2gujog4.png)

As for the questions, I would certainly purchase the narrow gauge brake vans, but only if they are based off of the original television series models as shown above.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/35c4nxj.png)

Moreover, I certainly agree that the brake van should be made in multiple color schemes (red, blue, and brown). Hopefully, Bachmann would go with the lighter shade of blue for the blue brake van (and upcoming blue carriage) as shown above.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/wb5kiv.png)

In fact, Bachmann could make a fourth brake van in the grey color scheme that was seen in the late model series. That's four brake vans with one tooling! Can't go wrong with that!

Thanks for posting so much thought guys!

Firstly, agree on the brake vans for the NG line.  Preferably the tooling from the model series like most have said.  And yes, I would certainly buy them in all colors, red, blue, brown and grey too.

So for me top wants:

Narrow Guage:

Peter Sam, Sir Handel, Duncan
Brake Vans in multiple colors
Tippers

HO:

Diesel 10 (don't care that everyone says he can't be made, will list it anyway, so Bachmann knows there's demand and can try to figure out a way to make it work.)
Den
Dart
Daisy

HO Rolling Stock:

Flat cars w/ various loads, (lumber, oil drums etc)

And then some buildings/structures for HO/NG.  Too many to really list, but there was a lot of great stuff in the earlier posts.

Not into large scale, so can't really say much there.

As for Large Scale, I'd say it's time Bachmann pulls the plug on that range within the next few years. I've already stated multiple times that the future of that range is bleak. The fact that Large Scale Diesel is cancelled is proof of this. Any hope of getting Edward, Mavis, or Henrietta is done.

Especially when Bachmann pulls the plug on Large Scale Thomas, I'd say it's best for them to acquire the license for N Scale Standard Gauge to start fresh. None of Bachmann's competitors have the license for N Scale, and Tomix barely counts, as they are a Japanese range. Maybe we'll eventually get Standard Gauge N Scale if the demand is high enough. It would be a fresh start, and we'd actually get Thomas and Percy in their CGI designs. They might get metal constructions to add weight. They'd be too small to have moving eyes, but that's okay. Bachmann might do an O Scale range as soon as Lionel surrenders their license.

The future of the HO range is uncertain, especially with all the recolors we keep getting, despite the range being considerably more successful than Large Scale. We'll still keep the demand for Daisy going.

N Gauge isn't a bad though honestly for the main roster.  As long as the do metal bodies like they did with the Narrow Guage engines.  It would open up possibilities of doing larger layouts in smaller spaces and including so many more features a lot of us would love if space weren't a big issue.

With enough popular demand, Bachmann should eventually acquire the N Scale license for Standard Gauge engines.

They won't have moving eyes, but they should definitely have metal bodies to give them some added weight.

Thanks for the positive response to the narrow gauge brake vans!   I honestly forgot about the gray livery sense I was never a fan of the late-model era episodes and therefore did not pay that much attention to that particular area.  Definitely a good possibility if they wanted to go for a fourth one.

Definitely interesting to see the responses to the particular Tulane, I agree that the first tooling I mentioned earlier would make a lot more sense because of its relatively simple design.  It's admittedly my personal preference as well but I wouldn't mind as much if they went with the second tooling.  At least the first one has a lot more of a simple design and a lot more recolor possibilities than the first one.

I also agree with Alex that Peter Sam definitely has the most pontential out of the three narrow gauge engines left.  Although I would be more than happy with Sir Handel too if it means waiting until the overhaul is completed and Bachmann can get accurate measurements then I would argue Sir Handel would be worth the wait, even if he were to be the last narrow gauge engine made out of the original six.

Well, might as well have a go at this.

Next year:
HOn30

Peter Sam

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/tayothelittlebus/images/f/f3/PeterSam.png/revision/latest?cb=20150225160301)
Why Peter Sam?  He is a popular narrow gauge engine.  He's one of the few engines that frequently visits the Talyllyn on a regular basis and he's got that special funnel.  His 0-4-2 configuration makes a good candidate for excellent pick-up (like Skarloey) and he's one of the few engines that receives merchandise whenever the narrow gauge are brought in. He's the top of my list honestly.  

Brake Vans
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/ac/CGISkarloeyRailwaybrakevan.png/revision/latest?cb=20161031123952)
Easy tool to make if using the NG coach chassis.  Great to compliment the end of trains.



For those who are saying the large scale line is doomed, think of this: Maybe Diesel's outside motion was too complicated/breakable?  Thomas and his crew in LS are durable it seems.  Maybe the costs of manufacturing became too much for them to think it was worth it.   Plus, I don't see the point of Farmer McColl having a wagon if there is a GWR one already in the line.  

After thinking on it, seems like Bachmann wanted to finish what they started instead of having so many products in development.  

You're welcome Chaz! I'm always happy to share my thoughts, and am glad to see many people on the same page regarding the narrow gauge brake vans.

On another note, by no means do I mean to come across as beating a dead horse, but while observing the posts in the 2017 & 2018 threads, I found a few posts that stuck out to me.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,31790.150.html

When scrolling down to Chaz & Spark's posts, it seems that it was thought that the red CGI carriages were based off carriage #1-3, and carriage #4 for the blue carriages. Therefore, I think that you guys were correct, and what the Thomas Wikia currently states in the trivia section of the Talyllyn Railway Coaches, or red CGI carriages (appearing to be based off carriage #4) is false.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,33422.30.html

At the very end of this page, TrainFan97 posted a comment regarding Diesel's face, which was the only comment regarding Diesel's face in the whole entire thread. Now of course, the intention of this post is not to put shame on TrainFan97. It is to notice that this was posted in early April, only a month an a half after the 2017 Announcements were posted. Therefore, I will certainly post my detailed thoughts on Daisy, Troublesome Truck #6, and resin buildings as soon as I can  :).

The CGI narrow gauge coaches seem to be based in color off of the Talyllyn Coaches, but proportion wise, they're not quite accurate to the No. 4s on the Talyllyn (too tall). Model series wise, the blue coaches were No. 4s (which have flat sides) and the red coaches were No. 3s (which have curved sides).

Honestly, it's hard to mess up their design when 7mm blueprints are accessible online:
(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/29/0/4/290444/94/5/0/9450532/1000x726.jpg?1419937506)

No. 1, 2, 3, and 4 are all purchasable on their website:
http://www.talyllynrailwayshop.co.uk/ourshop/prod_3652253-Talyllyn-Coach-No4-7mm-Scale-Drawing-250-including-postage.html
http://www.talyllynrailwayshop.co.uk/ourshop/prod_2440473-Talyllyn-Coach-No3-7mm-Scale-Drawing-250-including-postage.html
http://www.talyllynrailwayshop.co.uk/ourshop/prod_2440379-Talyllyn-Coach-1-2-7mm-250-inc-postage.html

Only way this could go wrong is if they use the CGI Thomas & Friends reference photos provided by Mattel, rather than following Talyllyn design plans (which besides color scheme, they didn't do for Skarloey and Rheneas, and didn't at all with the slate wagons).

Another thing to consider is these coaches may be something Bachmann UK is making, and like the slate wagons, it just happens that the Thomas version will come out first.

Did I predict Grumpy Diesel nearly a year before he was officially announced?

Thanks for the blueprints Sparks. That clears up a few things. The flat sides of the CGI red coaches certainly make them seem like they are based off of the carriage #4. However, I still believe that a more noticeable difference is the distance between the windows and the roofs. Specifically, there are no vents between the windows and roofs on the CGI models.

I wonder if it is possible if the Bach-man, Yardmaster, or Inside Track, can let us know if they will be going with two different toolings, or just one for both carriages. I apologize again for lingering this conversation on with many posts, and quite possibly creating headaches for the people of Bachmann. Nevertheless, let's hope for the best since these carriages are the highlight of the 2018 Announcements  :).

I think I predicted Grumpy Diesel nearly a year before he was officially announced.

I'm really sorry I brought it up back then. I didn't think they'd ACTUALLY do it, rather than giving us another character. I only mentioned Diesel's face in one post, and now it looks like my one post has caused such a questionable announcement. Now, people are probably gonna point their fingers at me. It looks like I came up with it...

Again, I'm really sorry I brought up Diesel's face back in April. I didn't know they'd actually do it.

There's nothing wrong with Grumpy Diesel on an individual level, as anything, he should've had a grumpy face in the first place.

The issue however, is the fact that he was the only engine announced this year, period. It kind of makes sense with Rusty and Paxton still nowhere near out yet. Grumpy Diesel alone however, isn't much of a crowd-pleaser for announcements we get only once a year.

We basically have to wait another year to see if the wait for better things will be worth it (course in the meantime it means I can buy engines like the Hattons P Class and Barclay).

Quote from: TrainFan97 on February 20, 2018, 10:34:46 PM
I think I predicted Grumpy Diesel nearly a year before he was officially announced.

I'm really sorry I brought it up back then. I didn't think they'd ACTUALLY do it, rather than giving us another character. I only mentioned Diesel's face in one post, and now it looks like my one post has caused such a questionable announcement. Now, people are probably gonna point their fingers at me. It looks like I came up with it...

Again, I'm really sorry I brought up Diesel's face back in April. I didn't know they'd actually do it.

I really don't think the idea is specifically came from your post so there's no need to take it out on yourself.  If anything, it's just Mattel's way of promoting Diesel a lot more than usual and Bachmann going along with it while Paxton, Rusty, and the large scale Spiteful brake van are still not out yet.

Even announcing Sidney next year really wouldn't do Bachmann any good because that would literally reusing the exact same tooling three years in a row.  At this point, I'd rather they just not bother with Sidney and instead invest in a new tooling for an HO engine (Daisy in particular).  If they can't even do that, then at the very least give the narrow gauge range a lot more of a heavy focus next year or add a new line of four resin buildings and not bother with another Diesel recolor.

Yeah. Sidney wouldn't do Bachmann any good, especially for 2019. Using the exact same tooling three years in a row isn't very wise. Like you said, Bachmann NEEDS to invest in a new engine tooling, particularly Daisy. I'm good as long as it's a likeable character.

The announcement of Grumpy Diesel did raise questions, but what REALLY made the announcements questionable was the fact that he was literally the only engine announced, and we're getting tankers nobody asked for. The Sodor Diesel Co. Tanker especially made no sense. At least the Water Tanker was actually in the show.

Next year, we should definitely get Troublesome Truck #6. Should be a tanker, ventilated van, or even a utility wagon (mail car). Heck, why can't we get more Troublesome Trucks? Why does it have to be one every three years? Just adding a face would really make rolling stock that sells. Selling much better than lousy recolors that were never in the show...

Hey guys I thought of something no one else has thought of for a re-color. Since the CGI switchover, all merchandising involving Spencer has repainted him in that metallic silver color. Bachmann still has Spencer in that blueish gray color from how he looked in seasons 7 and 8. I mean wouldn't it be nice to see Spencer in his current livery? Bachmann wouldn't have to change his face or anything just give him a fresh coat of metallic silver paint. This is something everyone has over looked. I personally wouldn't mind seeing a metallic silver Spencer for 2019 if Bachmann had to do another re-color. I mean it's better than grumpy diesel. Think about it. I'm sure Mattel would definitely want Bachmann to give this change for Spencer. This is an update long overdue.

So here's what I think we should see for 2019. Given we've been getting some re colors I thought I would add something from an earlier post.

HO Scale
Silver Spencer (with moving eyes)
Stanley (with moving eyes)
James' Brake Coach
James' Composite Coach
Troublesome Truck 6

Narrow Gauge
Sir Handle

Large Scale
Troublesome Truck 3

This is what I am hoping for 2019. Maybe as you guys are saying Bachmann could be planning something big. Who knows.

Silver Spencer is an interesting idea for a recolor. Since we're getting Grumpy Diesel, giving Spencer a CGI face is also possible.

Spencer is a big engine, and the most expensive Thomas model in HO Scale, but I do remember seeing him on the bestsellers list prior to Oliver's release. An updated model of Spencer with a metallic silver paint scheme would be much better received than Grumpy Diesel. Maybe even give Spencer a CGI face. Don't know if they'd give him a faster motor though.

Silver Spencer would be a recolor, but unlike Sidney, he's not another Class 08.

I suppose my input would be somewhat desired.

HO Scale
Daisy (with moving eyes)
Express Composite Coach
Express Brake Coach
Tar Wagon
Henrietta (CGI)
Hannah

HOn30
Duncan
Coal Wagon
Red Brake Van
Blue Brake Van

My dread list (the opposite of a wishlist):

Charlie
Philip
Nia
Rebecca

What I listed above are models I DON'T want.

If we get another recolor, what's your favorite idea?:

Sidney (another Class 08, but he's a separate character)
LBSC Thomas
Black James
Silver Spencer

For new toolings, I'd be happy with any of these engines:

Daisy (top demand)
Ryan
Stanley
Porter
Norman (long shot)
BoCo (long shot)

Don't know how they'd get Diesel 10's claw to work without breeching the NMRA standards.

Considering that Chaz already posted his scrupulous thoughts on the narrow gauge brake vans, I thought that now would be a good time for me to share my thoughts on the locomotive that I think that should enter the HO range next: Daisy the Diesel Railcar.

(http://i68.tinypic.com/24pbad5.png)

So, why should Daisy be introduced to the HO range? For starters, the demand for her is remarkable. Nearly every single Bachmann Thomas collector has stated that they would like to see Daisy in the range, not only through the Bachmann Forum, but through other branches of social media as well.

(http://i65.tinypic.com/n49p3d.png)

The next reason has to do with Daisy's role in the television series. To begin, when it was stated that Daisy would be returning in Sodor's Legend of the Lost Treasure, fans were ecstatic simply because Daisy is an unforgettable classic character due to her sassy personality and significant role of working on the Ffarquhar Branch Line along with Thomas, Percy, and Toby. Daisy is also the only locomotive that Bachmann has not made who's name is present in the Original Thomas Anthem (as shown here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_VG5i27tKM)

(http://i67.tinypic.com/25009vq.png)

But more importantly, fans both old and young are familiar with Daisy today as she has played large roles in some of the most recent episodes such as "Springtime for Diesel" and "A Most Singular Engine". These episodes even consisted of Daisy and Diesel as the main characters. As a result, with the newly announced Grumpy Diesel, fans would be able to recreate the interactions between Daisy and Diesel that took place throughout the episodes if Daisy were to get announced.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/spuf6q.png)

However, the number one reason as to why I think Daisy should enter the HO range is that there is currently no locomotive in the range that is like her. To elaborate, Daisy would be the first long bogied diesel in the range. What's more, her tooling would certainly not cost as much as a steam engine such as Ryan or Hiro since her overall shape is a rectangular box more or less, and the model would barely consist of any metal. Additionally, seeing that Grumpy Diesel is already listed on the Bachmann website, the announcement of Daisy for 2019 seems very feasible.

(http://i63.tinypic.com/2nizbe0.png)

Overall, 2019 would definitely be the best time to announce Daisy due to her popularity and current presence in the Thomas television series. Now, what do you guys think? Would you buy an HO Daisy? Feedback would be greatly appreciated.

While there was a lot of demand for Daisy, I really appreciate how you went out of your way and explained in-depth reasons with why Daisy should be made.

While I was a little cynical about her getting announced, (and to some extent I still am), I'm not going to deny that out of all the possible candidates for a standard gauge engine in HO, Daisy is the best candidate.  I feel that especially now with all the recent negative news from Bachmann, Daisy getting announced would really restore the faith that fans need in the HO range.  Regardless of tooling or price risk that would go into the model, the sales for Daisy would be over the roof because she's a nostalgic character.  Duck and Oliver are a prime example of this as they are still best-selling models even to this day.

While Rosie, Grumpy Diesel, and possibly Paxton (at least based on how he looks so far), are not going to really help boost Bachmann's sales anytime soon I feel like Daisy would meet and exceed all expectations from both fans as well as Bachmann themselves.

With Grumpy Diesel's image already posted, Daisy is definitely possible for 2019. If Daisy gets announced for real, she will restore people's faith in Bachmann. Since this year's announcements did raise questions, Bachmann should hopefully learn from all the negative feedback, and make the 2019 announcements good. Until then, it will be a long 12 months.

As for Nia, Bachmann doesn't usually make new characters right away. The new show doesn't even air until late in the year.

Well seeing as it has been over a week since the announcements, I would like to get my thoughts on the other addition I want the most as soon as possible, I figured I would get started with my suggestion for the next engine in narrow gauge which is Peter Sam!

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/1e/Don%27tBotherVictor%2135.png/revision/latest?cb=20160629175433)
To start things off, why should Bachmann do Peter Sam next?  This is because, out of all the narrow gauge engines left, Peter Sam has the best sales coming his way. Aesthetically, he easily has one of the best renders in the show and that is because of his close resemblance to his basis.  This is an area where he and even Sir Handel would be popular sellers from both fans as well OO9 modelers.  However, because Sir Haydn (Sir Handel's basis), is still in overhaul I feel that Bachmann's best bet would be to get Peter Sam finished first and then look into finding accurate measurements of Sir Haydn to make Sir Handel once the overhaul is completed.

(http://i68.tinypic.com/rvbvp5.jpg)
(http://i63.tinypic.com/9tmid0.jpg)
Even in a contest of those two, or even with Duncan thrown in the
picture, Peter Sam would easily be the better seller due to his funnel as it allows modelers to get creative and buy another Peter Sam and make a custom original funnel to replace the giesl on their spare model, allowing them to have two accurate models of his render with the giesl and with the original funnel.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/fd/SamsonatYourService73.png/revision/latest?cb=20150115191757)
Now on a marketing perspective, Peter Sam offers a nice color contrast compared to all the previous engines in the range.  This is another reason why I would put Peter Sam over Duncan because having a yellow engine right after a red engine (Skarloey), Vermilion (Rheneas), and orange (Rusty), Duncan's yellow livery wouldn't really make the range nearly as appealing as Peter Sam's nice green livery would.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c2/GallantOldEngine6.png/revision/latest?cb=20180214191850)
In terms of usage on the show, Peter Sam, along with interestingly enough the other three engines Bachmann announced, has had the most consistent track record out of all the narrow gauge engines for making appearances regularly on the show.  Starting from his introduction at season 4, he has ranged from making a few appearances and starring roles in every season (with the exception of Rusty in season 20), that featured the narrow gauge engines since then.  He is also one of the few narrow gauge engines to have a lead role in a CGI episode thus making him all the more recognizable to both the older and younger generation of Thomas fans.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/9b/Luke%27sNewFriend125.png/revision/latest?cb=20151230050350)
Overall, while I was disappointed that there was no new narrow gauge engine in this years announcements, I feel like Peter Sam (as well as some brake vans) would make a really solid lineup of announcements next year for the narrow gauge range.  He's got great sales potential, the right design, and the right amount of appeal which is why I think he would be the perfect choice for next years narrow gauge engine.

As usual here are questions for fans:

• Would you buy a Bachmann Peter Sam?
• Do you think he should be made next or should a different narrow gauge engine come before him?
• Can you also see his sales doing as well as Skarloey and Rheneas?

I'll get to my thoughts on why the resin line should make a comeback
sometime in the next month or so, but in the meantime let me know what you think.

Quote from: Chaz on February 26, 2018, 10:55:12 PM

• Would you buy a Bachmann Peter Sam?
• Do you think he should be made next or should a different narrow gauge engine come before him?
• Can you also see his sales doing as well as Skarloey and Rheneas?

Yes, no questions.
Either Pepper Sam or Sir Handel
Definitely, due to his class not being a one of one type of deal, as there have been several Tattoo fellas

I personally feel like Peter Sam is a smart choice, but at the same time I feel like the Bachmann range in general is way overdosed in green and red-ish engines. Sir Handel would be a welcome shade of blue to the range.

Even with Sir Hadyn in restoration, he is coming along nicely. I imagine Bachmann can easily get the blueprints to Haydn if they want to make Sir Handel, or even do him in the near future once Sir Haydn is done.

Great work on Peter Sam Chaz! As always, I enjoyed reading every bit of what you wrote. As for the questions...

Quote from: Chaz on February 26, 2018, 10:55:12 PM
As usual here are questions for fans:

• Would you buy a Bachmann Peter Sam?
• Do you think he should be made next or should a different narrow gauge engine come before him?
• Can you also see his sales doing as well as Skarloey and Rheneas?

1. Of course.
2. I originally thought that Duncan should be next due to the idea of announcing the locos in rainbow order. However, after thinking again, I think that Peter Sam makes the most sense for every reason you stated.
3. Absolutely.

Glad to see the positive responses to Peter Sam so far!  I think he really would be the best choice for the next narrow gauge engine and I'm glad to see I'm not alone on that.  If it means waiting until Sir Haydn's overhaul is completed, I personally wouldn't mind waiting for Sir Handel after Bachmann would make Peter Sam.

In my personal opinion, Peter Sam is definitely the next character I would like to see in narrow gauge.  Quite honestly I feel he should have been announced this year, but when looking at things from Bachmann's standpoint, it's understandable.  I think Chaz made some very good points in his post, but I also have a few things I'd like to add as well.

I agree that Peter Sam has the most appeal and sales potential, and I've seen the demand for him has been greater than any of the other characters in narrow gauge.  Yes there's been talk about Duncan and Sir Handel too, but it's been an on and off topic.  I personally feel that out of the 3 engines, Peter Sam would be the best one to add to the range for 2019.

When also considering the fact that some people would go out and buy 2 Peter Sam models so they could have one with the old funnel, that's another good point.  However, I'm sure there's probably diehard fans out there who would go out and purchase a 3rd model to make him with his precision engineered special funnel aka the drain pipe.  While I myself would be content just with having a stock standard model from Bachmann, I'm sure there's a few people that would love to do the modifications mentioned earlier.

So my thoughts are that if Peter Sam was made, yes, I would buy him.  I also feel he should be made next considering he's been in the most demand, and I'd honestly rather see him over Duncan considering the chances Duncan may be in his CGI render.  There's also no doubt in my mind that Peter Sam would do just as well as Skarloey and Rheneas in terms of sales, simply because the narrow gauge range is the first ready to run HOn30 and/or 009 range out there.  Although I think many would be happy just to see Peter Sam for 2019, I'm also going to say it would be worth while for Bachmann to add a brakevan to the list as it is a piece of rolling stock that's also been in high demand.  Also, considering announcements the last couple years for HO and Large Scale, HOn30 is the only range I have any hope for at this point.

-Rusty

I feel that Chaz makes several good points.  With the unique funnel and being a prominent member of the narrow gauge railway (being present in every season they featured), I'd be one to buy it. 

without a doubt i would buy Peter Sam! I've always loved the character and I'm really happy they gave him a proper Geisl ejector when the NG engines came back in full CGI! Plus he would be the only RTR model of the tattoo class which would be nice for modelers of both the Talyllyn Railway as well as the Corris Railway. Honestly, I think any narrow gauge engine Bachmann produces will be a big seller.

Just like how Daisy has the most demand for HO Scale, Peter Sam has the most demand for HOn30 Scale. Hopefully, both get announced in 2019, along with Narrow Gauge Brake Vans.

Hopefully, they'll have at least a limited number of Rusty models for Christmas. His image may not get revealed until at least summer.

Peter Sam definitely has a lot of potential for the HOn30 range. He will have amazing sales, just like Skarloey and Rheneas. Also hoping Sir Haydn's overhaul gets finished before 2020, so Bachmann can eventually get to Sir Handel. If not, they could make Luke. There's a very good chance Duncan would be based on his awful CGI render.

If it really came down to it, I would buy a model of Luke before buying a model of Duncan in his CGI render.  Even then, I would still prefer Bachmann to make Sir Handel and Peter Sam first before any other narrow gauge engine gets considered.  

That being said, I wouldn't rule out Duncan being announced before Sir Handel because of the overhaul.  Either way compared to Duncan, it's clear more fans would rather see Peter Sam before Duncan and hopefully that will be something else Bachmann will take into consideration.

Once again, thanks everyone for the positive responses! :)

Quote from: Chaz on February 26, 2018, 10:55:12 PM
As usual here are questions for fans:

• Would you buy a Bachmann Peter Sam?
• Do you think he should be made next or should a different narrow gauge engine come before him?
• Can you also see his sales doing as well as Skarloey and Rheneas?

[...][L]et me know what you think.

I agree with most of the points you made in your post Chaz, I definitely think Peter Sam is the most logical for the next engine, and definitely the one I want to see next.

Now, as for those questions, I would certainly get a model of him, however, I personally will only start modeling Narrow Gauge Thomas engines once I have the space for it, so for the time being, I wouldn't be able to, but I definitely would buy a model in future.

I sort of already answered point 2 by accident, so skipping to point 3...potentially. Now I mean no harm when I say this, but from kitbashers across the internet, I certainly saw more excitement over a Talyllyn conversion from Skarloey, than a Dolgoch conversion from Rheneas, so I assume that perhaps the range will see a little less enthusiasm from people outside the Thomas community as it progresses, which does mean less sales. However, I could be completely wrong, and even if I'm not, I still maintain that sales of a Peter Sam model would do incredible, due to the Thomas community alone.

~Alex :)

I can imagine if Bachmann UK were to make Talyllyn and Dolgoch models using the Skarloey and Rheneas toolings respectively. They're doing that with rolling stock, specifically the slate wagons; using toolings from the Thomas line.

Everyone is gonna hate me for this because everyone says large scale is dying.
but I at least want Edward, since he is not that far of a remodel from James
and the red passenger cars that would go with James (since they are JUST a repaint of Annie/Clarabel)
really, any engine past that (since its not ever possible for Henry and Gordon), isn't really worth having anyway, there is bill and ben which would be easy to make, and other small engines like that, like Oliver, Duck, Mavis, lady(even though you never see her in the show anymore), ect
but i still have hope, if not then its time to make a custom Thomas large scale engines

It's pretty conclusive that Peter will be the next NG Engine in the range. Granted that he's had a decent amount of screentime in the CGI era. I will also say that Peter Sam has the best CGI render out of all the NG characters currently in the show. The NG Engines were one of those characters that have vastly improved in detailing with CGI. Except for Duncan where his proportions are squat, but both his real life basis and his S4 model are lanky.

With Sir Handel, just a word of thought that he would suffer the same fate as Edward and Henry. However Edward and Henry have at least had their moments to shine in the CGI era. Sir Handel though has no character in CGI. You could replace him with "Inga from Norway" I could still see Duncan following up after Peter Sam. It won't be a surprise if Bachmann would consider prioritizing Luke or Victor over Sir Handel

I also want to say that with the NG coaches, and by the sounds of it, will have their own tooling rather then being repaints of the PECO ones, especially since none of them resemble Tayllyn Coaches. It really makes this years announcements sound like a blessing in disguise, since I have a feeling the Skarloey Railway Coaches will sell out quickly, just like the Red Branchline Coaches.

My two cents.  

In terms of Bachmann making Sir Handel, just like Daisy, I would really like to see Sir Handel being made, but I also completely understand that he has some things going against him like his basis being in overhaul and his minimal usage compared to the rest of the NG isn't helping all that much either as Metal brought up earlier.  I personally wouldn't mind as much if they did Sir Handel last out of the original six, (even though I would prefer Duncan being made last), but I do think Sir Handel needs to be made before any of the newer narrow gauge characters like Luke.

Either way, while Sir Handel has the right potential, I think it would be best for Bachmann to wait until the Sir Haydn's overhaul is completed so we can at least see him in great aesthetic quality like the Skarloey and Rheneas models.  At least that would make the model of Sir Handel worth the long wait just the Duck, Donald, and Douglas models.  The same can also be said for Peter Sam too, but at least he would be a great model to anticipate Bachmann to make in the meantime before they would get around to making Sir Handel, or Duncan for that matter.

With a long week of college exams behind me, it feels great to finally have the time to share my thoughts on the HO rolling stock that I believe has the most potential for 2019: Troublesome Truck #6.  

So, why should Bachmann make Troublesome Truck #6? To begin, the troublesome trucks have always done well with sales, since fans both young and old love rolling stock with faces, and the troublesome trucks are no exception. And, the wonderful thing about them is that each truck offers a unique tooling, paint scheme, and facial expression (with the exception of Troublesome Truck #1 & #2, which share the same tooling and paint scheme).

As for Troublesome Truck #6, I have three ideas.

Idea #1: Reuse Tar Tanker

(http://i66.tinypic.com/i3z33a.png)

I think that reusing the tar tanker for Troublesome Truck #6 would make fans ecstatic, simply because those who have missed out on the Tar Tanker could then have a way to get one. As for the facial expression, I actually do not have a preference because its small size already makes the face unique in its own way. Overall, this is what I would really like to see.

Idea #2: Reuse Oil Tanker

(http://i64.tinypic.com/24vs0pc.png)

This is probably the most realistic option for two reasons. Firstly, the troublesome oil tankers were seen in the special Journey Beyond Sodor. Since this special came out recently, it seems likely that the troublesome oil tanker is what Bachmann will go for. However, with Troublesome Truck #5 being based off a troublesome truck from Season 6, I could be wrong. The second reason as to why this seems to be the most realistic option is that Bachmann could then discontinue the oil tanker that is currently in the range, which would be similar to what they did with Spiteful Brake Van replacing the original brake van.

Idea #3: Reuse Ice Cream Wagon Tooling

(http://i65.tinypic.com/2vnf7dy.png)

I think that reusing the Ice Cream Wagon tooling is another idea with a good chance. After all, it is the only tooling in the HO range that was only used once so far (with the exception of specific characters such as Toad and Henrietta). As for the paint scheme, I would like to see it in a brown color scheme that is similar to the Sodor Salt Wagon. Lastly, for the face, many fans have suggested the angry expression that is shown above, and I completely agree with that suggestion. Here is also a head-on shot of it:

(http://i67.tinypic.com/2u5rvoj.png)

There is currently no angry troublesome truck in the range, so having Troublesome Truck #6 with that particular angry face would surely please fans. Overall, I would be very content with this option as well.

Here are some questions for fans:
Would you buy Troublesome Truck #6?
Which of the three ideas would you prefer? Or, is there an additional idea that you would like to see?
Can you see Troublesome Truck #6 doing as well as the other troublesome trucks in the range?

Definetely a good read Terence, I can safely say that I think another troublesome truck is a pretty good possibility.  Designs and facial expressions are also important factors too, so I would be curious to see how the next one would turn out.  Now for the questions.

Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on March 02, 2018, 09:46:03 PM

Here are some questions for fans:
Would you buy Troublesome Truck #6?
Which of the three ideas would you prefer? Or, is there an additional idea that you would like to see?
Can you see Troublesome Truck #6 doing as well as the other troublesome trucks in the range?

If it has a decent design or even a nice facial expression then I would buy troublesome truck #6.
The design I would like to see the most personally is the single vent van tooling (ice cream wagon) repainted with the angry facial expression.  If they do a tanker I would be more than happy with a plain black/gray tanker with a face on it too.
The success rate of any troublesome truck would really come down to its design. If it's anything like #4, then I could see it getting a hard pass from a lot of fans. However, if Bachmann does their homework like they did with #5, then I could see the sales for it going really well.

Quote from: thomasgleek444 on February 28, 2018, 10:40:32 PM
Everyone is gonna hate me for this because everyone says large scale is dying.
but I at least want Edward, since he is not that far of a remodel from James
and the red passenger cars that would go with James (since they are JUST a repaint of Annie/Clarabel)
really, any engine past that (since its not ever possible for Henry and Gordon), isn't really worth having anyway, there is bill and ben which would be easy to make, and other small engines like that, like Oliver, Duck, Mavis, lady(even though you never see her in the show anymore), ect
but i still have hope, if not then its time to make a custom Thomas large scale engines

As much as I too would like to see Edward in large scale, chances of him happening seem about as likely as kicking a bear without it attacking you.  Considering Bachmann couldn't even make Diesel (a relatively small model) happen, how do characters like Edward or even smaller ones such as Oliver and/or Mavis have a chance?  I can honestly say that if we do get anymore engines in large scale, I would most likely expect to see James, Emily, and Toby with DCC sound just as we have with Thomas and Percy.  I would very much welcome this addition as it would save large scale modelers from the high cost of converting the stock standard models to DCC themselves.

The red coaches would be another great addition, but they're not just a simple repaint of Annie/Clarabel and/or Emily's Coaches.  While all 3 are based on the LB&SCR Stroudley four-wheel coaches (at least in the case of Bachmann's models), the red coaches in large scale would require a new tooling of the roof along with retooling the back of the coach to have the break compartment.  When taking that into consideration, it seems very iffy to me whether or not Bachmann would actually go though with it at this point, considering the fact recolors seem to be the most prominent choice of additions to the range lately.  Again like I said before, large scale has hit rock bottom in my opinion...

-Rusty

I haven't seen this mentioned much:
(http://oi66.tinypic.com/r1eiog.jpg)
The Flatbed with Paint Drums has been discontinued for awhile, and when it does come up on eBay, it's for a ludicrous amount. There's clearly still a demand for the flatbeds, so just like the Express Coaches coming back, I feel like they should bring these back as well. The load could be the same or different for all I care, since I really just want the flatbeds themselves. If Bachmann wanted to make a new load however, they could have crates instead of paint drums, or even logs.

I'd definitely just want the tar wagon to be troublesome truck #6, but since it hasn't appeared in cgi yet, if ever, I'd say that the oil tanker being resused is most likely....

The paint drum flatbed could also return with oil drums.

The most disappointing thing about #4 was the fact that it was green, just to appeal to kids. Paint is an easy fix.

For #6, I can definitely tell a tanker has the most demand. Like others have said, bringing back the tar tanker with an added face is a possibility, but discontinuing the faceless oil tanker, and replacing it with an oil tanker with a CGI face is the most likely.

A ventilated van also has demand, especially one with an angry face.

Quote from: Sparks on March 03, 2018, 03:16:06 PM
I haven't seen this mentioned much:
(http://oi66.tinypic.com/r1eiog.jpg)
The Flatbed with Paint Drums has been discontinued for awhile, and when it does come up on eBay, it's for a ludicrous amount. There's clearly still a demand for the flatbeds, so just like the Express Coaches coming back, I feel like they should bring these back as well. The load could be the same or different for all I care, since I really just want the flatbeds themselves. If Bachmann wanted to make a new load however, they could have crates instead of paint drums, or even logs.

Thats why I was so happy to get mine 2 weeks ago for $18! I would love for it to come back out with maybe a pipe load. Plastic pipes would look great.

Thank you very much for your compliment Chaz, and thank you to those who have suggested which troublesome truck you would like to see. Hopefully, Bachmann will indeed do their homework for Troublesome Truck #6 so that fans will be happy with the end product  :).

Regarding the flat car, I completely concur that it should be reintroduced. The flat car with paint drums is in such high demand. Therefore, reintroducing flat car with paint drums as well as announcing it with some other loads such as diesel fuel (oil) drums or pipes would please fans immensely.

As for large scale, the more that I see gloomy posts regarding where the range is going, the more that I feel sorry for large scale collectors. If the large scale range has really hit rock bottom, then two products that I think that Bachmann should at least consider are Troublesome Truck #3 and Troublesome Truck #4. I can see one of them as a box van and the other as a tanker, as they are two existing toolings in the range. Ironically, the large scale oil tanker has been discontinued, so a good way to reintroduce it to the large scale range would be to use it as a troublesome truck. Overall, I am sure that large scale fans would be much more content with troublesome trucks than a silly toffee tanker.

Honestly, I'm still shocked that the flat car was not released with logs in the first place.   Either way, the flat car with paint drums definitely sounds like something I could see Bachmann bringing back in the future.  If not that maybe just the flatcar with a new load like logs, pipes, oil drums, or even...

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/31/Thomas%2CPercyandtheDragon13.PNG/revision/latest?cb=20091108044915)

I remember that load, ETRL made one.
I still have that with my collection.

Didn't this flat car with paint drums around a short time because I don't really it being around to one or two years.
Just like the stock van or the short truck before they turned in troublesome truck line.

In my eyes, the Chinese Dragon would probably work since it's a bright and colorful kid-friendly load which had a lot of toys during both the classic and late model era of the show.  It's something both younger fans would appreciate as well as nostalgic fans of the classic series.  Bachmann would be killing two birds with one stone with that one.

The flat car with paint drums came out in 2009 and was discontinued in 2013, same year the express coaches were dropped, interestingly enough.

This is a bit of a long shot, but I would like to see a flatbed with Caroline the Car as a load (like in the end of Train Stops Play).  The inclusion of Caroline would justify the Thomas branding for an otherwise fairly ordinary piece of rolling stock.  It's been a while since Bachmann has made any of the type of characters who would be classified as accessories, and I would scoop up models of Bulgy, Trevor, Caroline, and George.

For the face that I would like to see on the next Troublesome Truck, I'm partial to the one on the van that Oliver come face to face with at the end of the siding in Toad Stands By.

I'd only have hopes for Caroline if we got Bachmann to make Stepney in 2019.

Now -that- would be a dream.

To be fair though, Stepney does have enough of a demand for Hornby to have made a limited second run of Stepney in 2012, so there's definitely a market for the Bluebell engine. To add, he doesn't have any CGI references so if a model was made of him, it'd be based on his charming Season 4-12 model. If Bachmann didn't want to make Daisy, I feel like Stepney would be a good, unique B option.

If we look past the fact that Stepney's never appeared in full CGI, he has a lot of potential from Bachmann.  A tank engine with a color contrast, classic character with classic design to satisfy older fans, and would honestly feel like a really natural addition to the range after Duck, Oliver, Arry and Bert, and even the narrow gauge engines, Rusty in particular.  

His Hornby model has gone up to pretty steep prices too, proving that people would go out and buy him.  However, if Bachmann really wanted to -wow- the older fans and possibly redeem themselves after this year's announcements I think Stepney is a pretty solid choice.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/05/BowledOut35.png/revision/latest?cb=20130302205629)

He's also one of my favorite characters too so I'll admit I'm a little biased...

Honestly if Bachmann went with Stepney instead of Daisy I would be perfectly fine with that.  Not saying I don't want Daisy, but if I had to choose between the two I would personally pick Stepney. 

I would be for Stepney as well! Like Oliver, he has such a unique backstory, and would go wonderfully with the new Bachmann Rusty. http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Stepney

(http://i63.tinypic.com/w7d69s.png)

The bottom line is that announcing anything that was seen in the charming classic model series is all it takes for ALL Thomas fans to look at the Bachmann range with a true smile.

(http://i68.tinypic.com/ei9sfp.png)

It sounds like we have a potential hot-topic engine to root for the next year, as well as Daisy. Gives Bachmann a good alternative of choices if Mattel doesn't want to do Daisy. Both Stepney and Daisy would be a good way to regain the faith of the older Thomas fans in the range, specially those who import the models to the UK and hold the old characters dearer than Americans do.

I think beyond those two, any other choices for future engines are non-Awdry characters, who all have roughly the same potential level like Hiro, Stanley, Sidney, etc. who don't particularly have any advantages or disadvantages over the other.

Might just have to do a post with my thoughts on Bachmann making Stepney... Not right now but definetely in the near future.  Probably will look into it sometime this month though.

In the meantime I actually want to hear more thoughts from others on Stepney, I would really like to hear what others have to say about him.

Definitely Sparks, and that's good point regarding those in the UK. And Chaz, as always, I look forward to you post on Stepney!

(http://i67.tinypic.com/161ga4h.png)     (http://i68.tinypic.com/2uz5s1d.png)

One other thing that I would like to mention is that Douglas saved Oliver from scrap, and Rusty saved Stepney from scrap. Do you guys see where I am going with this?  ;)

I would prefer any Stepney whether it's his Thomas character or real life loco in the HO/OO market.
Anything would be better than his ugly black livery as in recent.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/locomotive/images/8/8f/Stepney_black_livery.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/640?cb=20140203145307)

While Stepney may not have a lot of appeal to young children, I really have to question whether young children should really be considered the target market for the range, beyond the starter sets.  I've actually asked, and my parents have said that they would not have bought $50 to $80 engines for a child.  Additionally, Amazon reviews for various items in the range are full of disgruntled rants by parents that did not understand what they were buying.  While I have no extensive data, it would not surprise me if parents were buying the starter sets with Thomas, Annie, and Clarabel and not much more than that.  I don't suspect that many models of characters such as Duck and the Scottish Twins are being bought for young children.  And I also suspect that the narrow gauge range is bought almost exclusively by older fans.

This is all to say that, with the core cast already pretty much out, it might do Bachmann and Mattel good to consider which niche characters appeal to the niche market of people who want to buy high-end Thomas models.  For my part, I am pretty much only interested in Rev. Awdry's characters, so the only realistic, potential additions to standard gauge HO that would appeal to me are Daisy, Stepney, and BoCo (having existed as more than an illustration).  Stepney is a good way to go if Bachmann really doesn't want to make a larger diesel engine for whatever reason.

Maybe I'm completely wrong in my thinking, and there are children with complete Bachmann Thomas collections.  But I've never even seen any of the Bachmann range in a physical store, other than the basic starter set (and this was near Christmas).  Unless children live in a location with a decent hobby shop and are taken there by their parents, they are unlikely to even know that this range exists.

Quote from: Chaz on March 07, 2018, 12:13:35 AM
Might just have to do a post with my thoughts on Bachmann making Stepney... Not right now but definetely in the near future.  Probably will look into it sometime this month though.

In the meantime I actually want to hear more thoughts from others on Stepney, I would really like to hear what others have to say about him.

Stepney would probably be an amazing model, even better if Bachmann went the extra mile and made him an accurate A1X Terrier, we are sadly missing a really good 00 terrier on the model railway market these days so I can see many modellers doing what they did with skarloey and rheneas and making a little custom magic. But it's mostly the nostalgic side of me that wants a Bachmann Stepney because he has always been a favorite character of mine.

I really think Stepney is a GREAT candidate for 2019. As much as I really want Daisy like everyone else, I can understand that there are certain factors going against her, and Bachmann seems hesitant to make a large diesel for the Thomas range.

Stepney may not be in full CGI yet, but he will be more than a welcome addition to the HO range. People have wanted him for some time now, even before Daisy returned in CGI, especially since Hornby Stepney is discontinued, and eBay prices are really high. When Bachmann eventually made Oliver, it was a huge deal, meaning you wouldn't have to get the discontinued Hornby model off of eBay for a ridiculous price anymore. Unlike Daisy, Stepney is another tank engine, and Bachmann can EASILY make him. He certainly has more demand than a long shot like Norman. For an engine with a new tooling, Daisy or Stepney would be welcomed with open arms, but I can definitely see Stepney being made by the fact that he's a tank engine, and he's also a classic character who would sell like hot cakes. When Bachmann made Duck and Oliver, they both sold like hot cakes, and Stepney would do the same. If Bachmann announces either Stepney or Daisy next year, they would definitely redeem themselves after this year's pitiful announcements, which did raise questions.

Since Grumpy Diesel's image is already posted, it's possible that we could get a recolor (Sidney) announced as well as a new tooling (Stepney or Daisy). If both a new tooling and a recolor get announced, that would be even better, with the recolor (Sidney) working as an added bonus, given how great Paxton's final model looks. I'd welcome Sidney with open arms too, as long as we get an engine with a new tooling before him, or with him. In 2014, no engine was announced, but in 2015, Bachmann announced Oliver, and a recolor nobody cared about (Celebration Thomas). This idea does sound realistic.

It makes me wonder how early or late Bachmann decides to make their engine for 2019 before announcing things at the next Toy Fair. Might be worth asking Doug to give us a good idea of what the "time limit" is in that regard. Otherwise, we spend all year pushing for an item thats feedback wouldn't be processed for another two years.

If you are concerned about a "time limit",  I would honestly encourage you to get your thoughts out on what you want next year sooner rather than later.  It would be good for feedback on here for the moderators and more likely than not, the message would be passed on sooner to people like Doug so they can take those suggestions into consideration for next year or at any time in the future.

You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

I personally think that J70Toby really hit the nail on the head. When I was a child collecting the Thomas Wooden Railway, I was the type of kid who had the goal to collect every single vehicle. However, I did not even know who 20% of the characters were, since they were characters that were only seen in the Railway Series, and at the time, I was not familiar with the Railway Series. Nevertheless, I still bought those vehicles just for the sake of building my collection. What's more, the Bachmann range is a specialty range of model trains, which means that the products are more expensive than a toy range such as the wooden railway. Most parents of young children would not want to spend the extra money for characters that they would cost less in other toy brands, and most young children do not mind about the brand of the character. They just want the character in some shape or form. It is only the older and/or avid Thomas fans who are picky, and really take the time and effort to think about good ideas for the Bachmann range that would please everyone, which is why making an engine like Stepney would be an extremely smart move.

(http://i65.tinypic.com/dnccqg.png)

One final reason I have to point out as to why Stepney would be a great choice is that Stepney may help the sales of Iron 'Arry and Iron Bert immensely, due to the role that the three of them had in one of Stepney's unforgettable episodes:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngu9Q_913gE

Are the bachmann large scale diesel and ho scale McColl's cattle wagon literally cancelled?

A little late on making this post.  Sorry about that... :-[

On the topic of bringing back the Flat Car with Paint Drums, I'd like to contribute my two cents to this as well.  I have to agree with Chaz that it is odd Bachmann released the Flat Car with Paint Drums (of all things) considering the load only appeared in the disaster that was Calling All Engines.  Many are talking about different loads, but I am a little curious if just the flat car itself would be enough in the end?  Although it's been a while since it was discontinued, the Well Wagon and RF Container Wagon didn't come with loads either, not to mention the vast amount of trucks and open wagons as well.

So to begin with in terms of loads, Bachmann could easily get away with using existing logs from their HO range.  They already offer an ACF 40' Log Car in their Silver Series rolling stock line, and the log load on that car looks very decent.  Now when scaling down the 40' log car (as I do not have the model to take a measurement from) the scaled down size would be 5 1/2".  The logs are somewhat shorter than the car however, and if I were to guess at their length, I'd say probably 5" would be pretty close.  The flat car from the Thomas & Friends range measures just shy of 6", which would leave the logs being 1/2" shorter than the car itself.  Personally I see no problem with that.

Bachmann also offers a 52' Flat Car with pipe load in their Silver Series rolling stock.  Again using my scaled down measurements, the car would be 7 1/8" in length.  Just like the log car, the load is shorter than the car itself, but my numbers come to the pipes themselves being about 5" to 5 1/2" in length.  However, a Thomas & Friends Flatcar with Pipe Load with about 15 individual pipes seems a little unlikely in my books.  I think in the end Bachmann would probably feel better making an entirely new mold which would have the pipes as one solid load rather than individually.  Unlike logs, the pipes (being hallow and/or individual pieces) would most likely be more prone to damage and/or loss.

If I were to be the judge, I'd say a load of 3-4 logs on the flat car would be the best choice up agents a pipe load and/or paint drums.  There seems to be a demand for a log car, and some have said that's what they would have rather seen the car with in the first place.  Plus as I mentioned earlier, Bachmann could just use the same logs that they've been using for their AFC 40' log car.  Now I know someone probably wants to bring up the whole HO/OO argument as well, but that shouldn't matter in this case as logs can be any shape/size.  In the end, Bachmann taking something such as logs from their existing HO range honestly makes more sense than people whining for Bachmann to introduce Hank by using their existing PRR K4 tooling.

So that's my thoughts on a few new loads for the return of the Flat Car with or without Paint Drums.  At the end of the day however, I feel it would be more of an advantage on Bachmann's part just to recolor the paint drums to be oil drums.  If people want other loads such as logs and/or pipes, they can always track down said loads or easily make their own at a cheaper cost even.  Like I said earlier on in my post however, I do have to wonder if people would possibly be happy just to have the flat car back in the range even if a load is absent?

-Rusty

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSXze2B3t2s

Just skip to 3:10, and you will be amazed. Bravo Bachmann! Bravo!

Now that's a refreshing sight to see. I know if I ever end up getting G scale items, the Spiteful Brake Van will be one of the first pieces of rolling stock I get.  :)

The face is spot on and I'm hopeful to see the same one make it on the HO model too.

Well done Bachmann!

Same here! :)

Well now it's time for me to give my thoughts on an addition I promised I would go in more depth with, Stepney the Bluebell Engine.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5b/RustytotheRescue61.png/revision/latest?cb=20120406162403)
To save this post from being repetitive, I'm just going to briefly go over why Stepney would work before based on previous discussion and then jump into other possible factors of why he would be the best candidate for the next HO scale engine.

• He's a tank engine which means he fits Bachmann's budget of engines in HO.  Bachmann has more or less been sticking with tank engines or recolors of the Diesel tooling for HO engines, so Stepney shouldn't be an expensive model to make despite being a new tooling.
• Before Daisy came back to CGI, Stepney was a pretty popular demand right behind Oliver, thus proving he has more than enough popularity to justify Bachmann making a model of him, despite being absent for so long in the current series.
• He would make a natural addition into the range after nostalgic favorites like Duck, Oliver, and Arry and Bert and would especially be a great fit alongside the narrow gauge engines, Rusty in particular.

So why else would Stepney work in HO?

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/20/TrainStopsPlay1.png/revision/latest?cb=20120806212724)
For starters he offers a color contrast - an ochre livery.  Mattel would be on board with this because of their track record of making colorful characters.  They released Stepney in take-n-play and I speak from experience that he kept selling out and I couldn't find him in local shops...anywhere.  Clearly kids also appreciate his livery and design, even if they might arguably not know who the character is on the show since he is not in full CGI yet.  Stepney would also bring a nice fresh breath of air to those who are tired of seeing green engines for the HO standard gauge range.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/05/BowledOut35.png/revision/latest?cb=20130302205629)
Another thing that would make Stepney stand out above most candidates is because he's a classic character, he is guaranteed strong sales.  Duck has still been a popular seller since he got released in 2013 and Oliver is still going on strong with sales, even outselling main characters like Toby and Edward.  A Bachmann model of Stepney in no doubt would give these equal sales because the market for more classic HO engines is there, and with his Hornby model selling for over $200 on eBay, it clearly supports that sales for a Bachmann Stepney would be over the roof.

Probably the last reason I'm about to mention is the biggest reason why I believe Bachmann should look into Stepney more than any other character, and this includes Daisy, so please keep an open mind.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/62/StepneyGetsLost11.png/revision/latest?cb=20161008001747)
I think Stepney should be made BECAUSE he hasn't been introduced in full CGI yet.  The idea is honestly not far-fetched considering the design choices on some of the resin buildings and the HO rolling stock (especially the recent Spiteful brake van).  Plus, let's say that there are plans for Stepney to return to CGI in the next 2 or 3 years from now, and if Bachmann were to make him, they would not only be on top of the standards on the show but they would also be keeping up with popular requests from fans.  The Bachmann Duck is a perfect example of this as he was announced a year before his CGI return was announced and his model came out right when the character became relevant again while being based on his classic series model.  You can honestly make that exact same argument for Rosie too as she was a background character for a long time, including when she got announced by Bachmann.  A year later when she was released however, she became a more prominent character on the show, only in a new livery and personality.  So despite reception of her from fans, Bachmann was still on top of the shows standards while introducing her in her old livery. Honestly it makes me wish Bachmann did the same with Oliver too, but I digress.   

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/f7/BowledOut40.png/revision/latest?cb=20130302205959)
This is why I would honestly argue that Stepney should be made BEFORE Daisy because he would be a nice treat to older fans, moreso than Oliver already was because he would be based on his classic appearence.  That and admittedly if he were to return to CGI, considering some of the recent renders by Arc/Jam filled makes me feel Stepney should be introduced before he returns in CGI.  Daisy in my eyes would honestly be better as a backup or second priority for Bachmann when it comes to classic characters.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/23/ThomasAndStepney64.png/revision/latest?cb=20160929120004)
Overall, I think Stepney has been a far more solid candidate than most other choices I've seen mentioned on the forum.  He's got an excellent track record coming his way for sales, a very well-established and popular character with fans, a simple yet refreshing design for Bachmann to work with, and most of all would make an excellent addition into the range overall with strong sales guaranteed to last a long time.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/ef/JamesandtheRedBalloon30.png/revision/latest?cb=20171122235321)
I hope that the Bach-man or any other moderator can please pass this message along, (along with my suggestions for Peter Sam and brake vans for the narrow gauge range!), as these products fans have been rooting for would make a solid lineup of announcements for 2019 and would really help restore the faith as well as sales that Bachmann needs to keep going strong.

And now questions for fans:

• Would you buy a Bachmann Stepney?
• Would you want Stepney to be the next classic character to be made in HO or should that go to a different character?
• Do you agree that Bachmann should make Stepney sooner rather than later?

I'll leave the resin building post to TerencetheTractor525 since he seems more enthusiastic about it than I do, and I feel three in-depth suggestions from Bachmann is more than enough on my end so I'll let it stop here. 

In the meantime any further thoughts on Stepney is welcome.

Outstanding job Chaz! It's always a pleasure to read what you have to share, and this post on Stepney was no exception.

Now for the questions:

To begin, I would certainly buy a Bachmann Stepney. As for the second question, It's honestly a tough call between Stepney and Daisy. However, after reading your post very carefully, I think that Stepney would be the better option. He would bring forth a new color scheme, and feels like a natural addition. Specifically, notice that every single pic of Stepney that was used includes background characters and rolling stock that Bachmann have already made. This is probably why he seems like such a natural addition. And, yes. Bachmann should definitely announce Stepney sooner, rather than later. After all, it would be wonderful to see another HO loco based off the model series, especially after seeing how well the face to the Spiteful Brake Van turned out.

This leads me to one other thing I would like to mention. Basically, I think that the reason why Bachmann was able to make the face to the Large Scale Spiteful Brake Van perfect (even though it was a face that was only seen in one episode of an early season) is due to the head-on pic of the face that was provided:

(http://i68.tinypic.com/28umxq0.png)

This is also probably why the face to Troublesome Truck #5 was not perfect. Some people have argued that Bachmann was trying to base it off the model series and CGI series. However, I think that the real reason is that a good angle of the face was not provided.

As for Stepney, I would personally love it if they go with this face:

(http://i66.tinypic.com/22yhpu.png)

Once again, outstanding work Chaz! I'll certainly share my thoughts on the resin buildings soon :).

Thanks Terence!  Yeah you can definetely say that the recent discussion behind Stepney as well as the turnout of the spiteful brake van's face really made an impact on my decision to go into depth with Stepney.  Personally I really think Stepney really should take priority over Daisy too since Stepney at least has a great design for Bachmann to work with and would fit their budget for the time being.  Hopefully it's not too late for Bachmann to pull it off. 

The face you picked is spot on and I can easily see Bachmann choosing that same face for Stepney as well.

You're welcome Chaz! I'm very surprised that I am the only one who has given you feedback so far, considering the amount of time and effort you have put into stating your thoughts on Stepney. Nevertheless, fantastic work again!

I was just watching the episode Bowled Out, and was thinking about how amazing Bachmann Duck would look with Stepney if he is released.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_DnoymuK9c

I'm surprised as well, but at the same time a lot of people gave their thoughts on Stepney earlier as well and it's pretty clear that his reception would be extremely positive and would be welcomed by many fans too.  Either way it's good fans are speaking up a lot more now after how this year's announcements turned out.  

I agree with you that Stepney would look great with Duck and he would also look great with 'Arry and Bert in particular too.  I'll admit I never was interested in 'Arry and Bert but if Bachmann were to make Stepney then I would definetely consider getting 'Arry and Bert at some point too.  Stepney Gets Lost is easily my favorite episode of Season 5 and really the only time I appreciated 'Arry and Bert as characters before they became the diesel versions of Bill and Ben in season 6 onwards.

Another point I thought of earlier today is if Bachmann made Stepney now, then he would be one of the final classic engines who would have his Bachmann model based on a model era appearance, due to him (currently) not having a CGI render. Any other classic character viable to have a Bachmann model most likely has a CGI model made already (like Daisy). Stepney would truly be the "last hurrah" by Bachmann to the model era characters.

Stepney is a fan favourite classic character, and it would be wonderful to see him in the range. It would not only restore faith in the HO line, but also in the fanbase, and would definitely boost Bachmann's sales.
While characters like Rosie are welcome, it is obvious that they do not have as much demand as classic characters like Duck, Oliver, Donald/Douglas etc and cannot generate as much hype and money. Stepney is no doubt going to be a popular best seller if ever made by Bachmann. Hornby's version is among the rarest and most sought after Thomas models, so the demand is clearly there.

I really hope your post gets read by a Bachmann representative and that they will take all your points into consideration. Making Stepney would surely help them a lot!
Only a couple Bachmann Thomas locos really make me want to buy them, but Stepney would definitely be a welcome addition!

New user here, might as well throw in my two cents. I can't bother reading through this entire thread right away because I'm busy on several things lately, so sorry if I mention something that's already been brought up.

I'm kind of torn on where I expect the range to go next. Before the company's fairly lackluster series of 2018 announcements, I was sure they'd only go down one or two of maybe five or so possible routes with new characters. I guess I still expect they'll go down these routes at some point, though whether the characters I'm thinking of show up for 2019 announcements or later, if at all is anyone's guess.

An obvious first choice would be Sidney. Mattel's trying to focus on newer characters as much as possible, Bachmann likes re-using body shells and chassis until their usefulness is run into the ground, and he'd be really easy to do. That would give them five characters with the same tooling (six if you count the G. Deezul mod) , and they'd only have to spend a bit of money on a fourth livery and face. Sidney might not be the most popular character of all time, but with how expensive the characters are becoming due to MSRP inflation I can easily see Bachmann going down this route for economical reasons. And as much as I absolutely hate how over-scaled their class 08 characters are against an actual 08, them producing models of both Paxton and Sidney might prompt me to start buying them. I'd want to put different faces on Diesel, 'Arry and Bert though... CGI designs don't do their personalities any justice at all.

Along that line of thinking, can someone at Bachmann *please* throw into the next board meeting a suggestion for Splatter and Dodge? I know the film is largely unpopular and we only ever saw them once, but plenty of fans have made their own versions of these two and there seems to be a sizeable market for them, what with all the custom Diesel 10 and Lady models out there. The company already has the tooling, they just need to come up with the paint and faces for them. Personally, I would buy models of Splatter and Dodge long before I ever bought Paxton and Sidney, and that's mostly out of nostalgia value and obscurity points which the latter two don't have. Even if you hated TATMR, Splatter and Dodge would be ideal classic characters to add to the collection, having come right at the show's height before things started going downhill. If the company is willing to make the Spiteful Brakevan despite him only having one appearance, and make him in two scales no less, then I don't see what would hold them back on Splodge apart from Mattel butting in on account of the movie's box office reception. Still, I'd buy Splatter and Dodge any time they were available, even if they are oversized.

As for steam locomotives, I'm surprised they haven't announced Stanley by now. He seems to fall into a similar category with Sidney whereby he's not the most popular character in the world, but he does have his own loyal following and quite a few people have been asking for a proper model of him. Like many characters Hornby dropped the ball on him when they had the chance (despite having several relatively similar toolings they could have tweaked and used) and that leaves Bachmann the chance to do him up themselves. He seems to fit the criteria both Mattel and Bachmann have been following more or less for awhile now also: bright, colorful paintjob, unusual design, typically with six wheels, easy to convert into something else with readily accessible motor. I'd buy one myself, provided they did him up right. The only real concern I have with Stanley is that I'd like him to be the proper size, and in Bachmann terms that means somewhat bigger than the character is depicted in the show. This company isn't that great about keeping character scaling right (Rosie/Class 08s/Duck/Bill and Ben are over-scaled; Thomas/Oliver/Rheneas are under-scaled) and in order to meet the general size requirements that Stanley was first introduced with (bigger than Thomas, comparable in size to Rosie) he'd have to be over-scaled as an HO/OO model and be about the same size as Duck or Rosie. Don't know if a lot of fans would be bothered by that; personally I'd much rather have an over-sized Stanley than an over-sized diesel character as steam engines tend to disguise their visual errors more easily. So if Bachmann goes this route, I'd but Stanley provided they scaled him appropriately.

A few others I can think of would be Charlie, Norman, Den or Dart. Charlie is a pretty small character and they don't have to worry too much about keeping him proportionally accurate as much as some other characters on account of how relatively unpopular he is. I know there are people out there who would buy him, and plenty of others who would refuse; I would if the model was actually visually appealing and cheap enough, even though I don't really like the character. He's another six-wheeler so fitting an appropriate motor would be easy, he's colorful and dynamic with a good bit of striping and detail, and they don't yet have a violet engine as far as I know. I'd rather the "violet" category go to Ryan first, but I think Charlie's more likely on account of being in the show longer and being somewhat smaller. Plus fans could buy a second and convert it into Billy rather easily, provided Bachmann doesn't raid the New Series for one-off inspiration again and cover him first.

Norman would again be a six-wheel character that would be cheap to make and easy to recolor (noticing a pattern with this company yet?). He's about the same size as the 08s, just a bit longer perhaps, and would complete a Paxton/Sidney/Norman trio if Sid does indeed get produced. He could easily be redone into Dennis (another one-off character, but not a universally unpopular one), so they'd get their money's worth. I'd like to see them both side by side, so long as the tooling is actually made at the proper scale. Den and Dart would be, arguably, even easier to make being only four-wheelers and rather small, and they're a bit more popular than Norman or Dennis seem to be. No one really liked Hornby's version of Dart on account of how big it was and lazy that company was in making it, so they left the void in the market for Bachmann to fill easily. I'd possibly buy both if, and only if, Bachmann used their Sentinel tooling for Den in order to make him real-life accurate and not way too big like in the show (like how they used their actual GW Toad tooling to make the brakevan character) and if Dart was likewise kept as small as he is in real life. Both on the show and in real life, it's a rather small locomotive. No need to mess with that.

I've seen others throwing weight behind ideas like Daisy, Stepney, Lady et cetera and the only character that many fans seem to be clamoring for that I could possibly see happening is Stepney, not Daisy, BoCo, D10, Lady or a lot of others. I'm leaving Step as a possibility for only two real reasons: he's a six-wheeler which Bachmann seems to love and he's got an unusual livery. That's it. I really don't think Mattel gives care to classic series characters anymore, even when fans are clamoring for them. He'd fill the void in the market left by the discontinued Hornby version, could be a nice change from the real-life aesthetics to the simplified show design, and I would hope that they make him (if at all) before he inevitably comes back in CGI out of scale and with technical issues unlike some (*cough* Oliver *cough*). Personally I'd buy a Bachmann Stepney ahead of any of my previous contenders, even though I already have the Hornby counterpart. I'd just want them to do him up right and take their time.

Daisy's not going to happen. Sorry gents, but that's like asking Bachmann to give us access to a unicorn. Same with BoCo and Diesel 10, for those who think they have a chance. First of all, Daisy's just a glorified passenger car in Mattel's eyes, and an inaccurate one at that. Bachmann would use the CGI render, which is fine, but it features 11 windows on each side instead of 12, leaving it shorter than an actual class 101 DMU would be. I've got a Hornby class 101 for comparison and I can already see her being too long (and therefore expensive to make) in Bachmann's eyes. Do you really think the company is going to put out a diesel with two bogies, a long frame, a wide turning radius and a bunch of silver windows (yes, they'd leave the windows silver instead of clear and it'd be rather ugly as a result) and expect to make money on it? They're asking over $120 just for Paxton, and he's a much shorter recolor. They'd charge over $200 for Daisy and half the people who want her couldn't afford her. Same goes for BoCo who is even bigger (slightly), and who isn't even in CGI yet and not likely to come back anytime soon under Mattel's leadership. Think like a company board member deciding on characters to spend money animating. All they'd see is "he's a big green box, and we already have one of those and that character's got more windows". So as much as I'd love to see Bachmann tackle them both, I highly doubt it would ever get past basic conversation.

Lady and D10 would encounter similar issues. Diesel 10 is big and would require more money to make and therefore purchase, whether they used their UK-line Class 42 tooling or not. There's the matter of Pinchy as well: how do you add that on safely without kids breaking it off? Does it have its own hinges and only move on two main joints? Does the claw mouth open up or not? Can it be mounted on roller bearings to rotate, or does it stay permanently mounted to the body? Crafting a ready-to-run D10 would be a logistical nightmare for this company. Lady would be considerably easier to make and likely a better seller, but she's had less screentime and came from a film that Mattel is doing as much as they can to forget about. The only reason I brought up Splatter and Dodge earlier is because their tooling already exists; she would require a new design to be commissioned by a company that wants as little to do with TATMR as possible. Would I buy her? Absolutely. Same with D10 if he was done properly (though I'd want his classic scowling face, not this rainbows-and-sunshine CGI crap). But do I think Bachmann will make them? Highly doubt it.

All of this boils down to what you really think the company is there for. Are the people at Bachmann here to satisfy a vocal minority of fans who will give them money no matter what? Or are they here to market toward children and their parents and broaden their stockholder base? As much as things like the NG line and Spiteful Brakevan are a godsend for nerds like us, they're not where the company's bread and butter are made. As soon as you realize that, assessing their likely character production becomes much easier.

Also if they decide to make Philip I will leave this fandom, I swear to god, don't make me do it y'all...

Some interesting points there; I've covered a lot in my separate thread (at http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34694.0.html ) that specifies on Daisy, Stepney, Hiro, Rebecca, and Nias likelihood, so I'll be making this brief.

Sidney, Splatter and Dodge, as well as The Great Railway Show 08s I feel like are all under the same tier of "Filler to milk the 08 tooling." They don't have a particular strong or weak chance of coming into the range in the near future, but are definitely options that can stand idle should they ever feel the need to pad the range out a bit.

On that note, I feel like that's why I'd sooner see any of those over the likes of Norman and Stanley. Normal has about the same rankings and reasons to be made as Sidney or other minor engines, but has the added disadvantage of requiring a new tooling that they can't milk for such a small character.

Stanley, meanwhile, I feel like is an "artifact" request I see in a lot of wishlists, harking back to when he was new. It seemed like they were going to do something big with Stanley in the brand, but never did. Over time, I feel like his likelihood of having a model has basically diminished to a low tier.

It's good to see more unified people in favor of Stepney of course. I feel like if there's a time to push for him, it's now. I'd prioritize him over Daisy, personally. Though it perplexes me a bit how you are quite harsh on Daisy, yet quite generous on engines like Charlie, Den and Dart, engines who I think have far less of a chance, despite their designs (some of who are far more complex) and sizes. They do have points in favor of them on the assembly line and standing out in a line-up color/design wise, but I feel like they lack the "oomph" of crowd reception that some characters do. Anyway, back to Daisy...

I think her amount of windows is more or less a moot point (in regard to accuracy), when fans want the character they see in the show, not real life-accurate models. I don't think people had much of an issue when engines like Rosie or Duck don't look like their real counterparts. The Bachmann engines have yet to have clear windows on any of their engines, so I'd fully expect her (and personally wouldn't mind or care) if she had white windows, since it makes sense from a manufacturing standpoint. Her length as a result of less windows does lead to that interesting point though, which is why I'd put Daisy on the ranks of "If Bachmann has enough resources to make a large engine, do Daisy first, then Hiro, before even considering Rebecca" as per the Future Engines thread. Basically, if the option is there to make a big engine, do Daisy first. The fact that her CGI model is shorter does help her length a bit, too. Time will tell.

Personally, I'd pay the extra bucks for classic character representation.

BoCo is definitely a long-gone possibility, and why I never brought him up. I never brought up Diesel 10 and Harvey for size reasons, as they simply don't comply with the NRMA regulations. I've heard people say "well maybe Bachmann doesn't need to follow them then, they're just Thomas trains" which... I guess they have no idea what a regulation means.

I think the "vocal minority" is bigger than people believe it to be as well. For a long time (years I recall) Duck was on their top 10 sellers list in the Thomas section, and is only gone because Oliver now occupies the spot. For awhile Skarloey was there too (To add, Skarloey has sold out more than once, largely in thanks to a niche market in the UK who imports his model over for OO9 modellers. Skarloey was definitely a helping hand in the growing movement towards RTR OO9 locomotives. I haven't looked much into Rheneas' sales yet, but I imagine he's getting a similar treatment. Rosie on the other hand, isn't on the same Best Sellers list. Makes me wonder if she's at a close 11, or lurking further behind.

Most "normal and casual" parents buying Bachmann trains for their child usually go for the Thomas set, some freight cars, maybe Percy and James, and often stop there. Sometimes you might see a random character thrown into the mix, but in general, the larger catalogue of engines seems to largely be based on older collectors. There's actually some amusing reviews on Amazon from people who buy the Bachmann Thomas engines and sets and have no idea how to handle model trains properly and will instead suggest ranges like Wooden Railway or Trackmaster.

I definitely believe there is a way to balance the younger audience with the collector audience, and Bachmann over the years has proven that they can handle it very well. While 2018 may be considered a flub by many, I have hopes for the future (knock on wood).

With how critical people are getting of Mattel as a brand, especially in the dawn of BWBA, I feel like Mattels safe-bet is to let Bachmann do what they do best and have been doing for years, rather than try to intervene for the sake of pushing their current agenda. This is already turning out very badly for one of the toy ranges.

I really enjoyed reading your thoughts DecadesofSun! It's clear that you outlined many important points on the next HO loco. However, I do agree with Sparks, specifically on the chances of Daisy. I do not think that it is fair to jump to conclusions by stating that a character that is extremely sought after is not going to happen by Bachmann, simply because she is a glorified passenger car in Mattel's eyes. Let's remember that many of us had our doubts about Bachmann starting a narrow gauge range, yet they still did it. Not only that, but they decided to make the locomotives using die-cast body shells. Because of this, there may be a chance that Bachmann will give Daisy actual windows, just like the coaches, which would certainly get rid of any sort of ugliness. If this means that Bachmann would have to omit the moving eye mechanism, I would be fine with that, as I am sure that all fans would be as well. Bachmann did omit the moving eye mechanism in the large scale Winston after all.

I also started a resin building thread here: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34707.0.html
Once you find the time, would it be possible if you could state your thoughts and suggestions on the resin buildings? I would love to see what you think  :).

Speaking as someone who has had this conversation with DecadesofSun recently over the weekend while hanging out, I can definitely say I can see where he is easily coming from.  Throwing my thoughts as well, even though he already knows this. :P

Sidney, Splatter, Dodge and any other 08 recolors are models Bachmann could make if they really wanted to.  Aside from Sidney there isn't all that much in it for Mattel.  Of course the comparison of Splatter and Dodge being compared to the Spiteful brake van is an interesting one (and a pretty valid point honestly) since it's basically the same scenario.  I'm still not sold on them doing another 08 recolor.  If they do, as I noted before that would really be overusing the 08 tooling. Five (including Grumpy Diesel) is more than enough.  Especially if it's three years in a row with this year's being completely unnecessary.

Tank engines and diesel shunters seem to be a more realistic approach from Bachmann, when you consider their budget that seems to be more evident when looking at the last couple of announcements from the last few years.  It's basically why I have more hope for the narrow gauge range since at least every year that range has gotten at least one new tooling, something HO and especially large scale are long overdue.  At least all the narrow gauge engines in CGI are small enough to be considered, but I would hope Sir Handel and Peter Sam get considered before any others, especially the newer ones like Victor or Millie.

While I think Daisy's odds are questionable too, at least Stepney, being a small tank engine with a color contrast can fit Bachmann's budget a lot better, and would be more likely to get the thumbs up from Mattel than Daisy would.  Stepney however in my eyes would be a safer bet than Charlie and Stanley because their following, as well as sales potential, seems to be more questionable than encouraging.  Rosie clearly did not make it onto bestsellers, unlike Duck and Oliver.  Spencer was on there at one point recently too, but moved down after Duck's sales increased once again.  I even remember seeing the Scottish twins and Diesel being on there for a while too.  Point being though, if Rosie, a character who is a lot more marketable than Charlie and Stanley and was given a bigger role from season 21 onward didn't make into bestsellers, nor doesn't seem to be flying off shelves like Oliver or a narrow gauge engine did, then that's honestly saying something for Stanley or Charlie or even small diesels like Den Dart or even Philip.  And if Oliver is still selling out and Duck's sales increased again, then that's really saying something about how well Stepney would do, especially since Hornby's Stepney model seemed to be a popular seller both times it was released.

Either way as long as Bachmann is willing to go the extra mile next year for HO and not do a recolor of the 08 tooling, or even pull something in a similar vein of Grumpy Diesel like "Red Rosie" (please don't do that Bachmann, one Rosie model is more than enough...) then that will make me feel a little more encouraged for Bachmann's future in HO.

Thanks for responding, guys. I'm only going to respond to a few points and maybe get back to the others later when I have more free time. And I'll try to get to your threads relatively soon-ish as well.

Quote from: Sparks on March 25, 2018, 08:07:17 PM

It's good to see more unified people in favor of Stepney of course. I feel like if there's a time to push for him, it's now. I'd prioritize him over Daisy, personally. Though it perplexes me a bit how you are quite harsh on Daisy, yet quite generous on engines like Charlie, Den and Dart, engines who I think have far less of a chance, despite their designs (some of who are far more complex) and sizes. They do have points in favor of them on the assembly line and standing out in a line-up color/design wise, but I feel like they lack the "oomph" of crowd reception that some characters do. Anyway, back to Daisy...

I think her amount of windows is more or less a moot point (in regard to accuracy), when fans want the character they see in the show, not real life-accurate models. I don't think people had much of an issue when engines like Rosie or Duck don't look like their real counterparts. The Bachmann engines have yet to have clear windows on any of their engines, so I'd fully expect her (and personally wouldn't mind or care) if she had white windows, since it makes sense from a manufacturing standpoint. Her length as a result of less windows does lead to that interesting point though, which is why I'd put Daisy on the ranks of "If Bachmann has enough resources to make a large engine, do Daisy first, then Hiro, before even considering Rebecca" as per the Future Engines thread. Basically, if the option is there to make a big engine, do Daisy first. The fact that her CGI model is shorter does help her length a bit, too. Time will tell.

Personally, I'd pay the extra bucks for classic character representation.

As would I, but let's backtrack a minute. I *did* say that I'd buy a Bachmann Daisy model if one was officially licensed and made; my critique was more centered around the idea that I don't think she's a realistic expectation, not that I don't want them to make her. Of course I'd love to see Daisy in the range same as (I imagine) everyone else here. The issue with windows was more a side point that I don't see a lot of people talking about, rather than a personal deal-breaker for me. If she was left with 11 windows and a shorter body, I'd still buy her. If her windows were all silver I'd be disappointed (I really don't think the silver windows on the diesel characters is a good choice personally, and she'd showcase that poor design decision more than any other diesel locomotive they could make) which is why I brought it up. But those grievances aside, I don't see how they would realistically market her for anything less than $150. I'd expect Daisy to go for probably $180-200 or more given Bachmann's current prices, and that's still going to deter a lot of fans from buying her even though we've all been asking about her for years.

The smaller engines I noted because the shorter characters have been the focus in the range for years. We haven't been given a full-size tender engine since the releases of Gordon, Henry and Spencer way back in the early days of the range. The last medium-size tender engines were what, Donald and Douglas, who are basically identical as far as the tooling is concerned? I'd like to see Bachmann make more medium/large engines also, but I don't think it's going to happen. For that reason I doubt Hiro's coming around, even though he'd probably be the most likely candidate for a large steam character. Same with Rebecca, and she's less popular before she's even had a chance to debut in the show. I mentioned Charlie, Stanley, Norman, Sidney etc. because I thought those small four/six-wheel, short-frame characters are far more likely to be made for this range, not because I would have much interest in buying them personally. Some of the only small-ish HO characters I'd be really interested to see these days are Stepney, Splatter and Dodge, and even them I don't see as likely even though Stepney's probably got the best chance at the moment.

Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on March 25, 2018, 10:26:46 PM
I really enjoyed reading your thoughts DecadesofSun! It's clear that you outlined many important points on the next HO loco. However, I do agree with Sparks, specifically on the chances of Daisy. I do not think that it is fair to jump to conclusions by stating that a character that is extremely sought after is not going to happen by Bachmann, simply because she is a glorified passenger car in Mattel's eyes. Let's remember that many of us had our doubts about Bachmann starting a narrow gauge range, yet they still did it. Not only that, but they decided to make the locomotives using die-cast body shells. Because of this, there may be a chance that Bachmann will give Daisy actual windows, just like the coaches, which would certainly get rid of any sort of ugliness. If this means that Bachmann would have to omit the moving eye mechanism, I would be fine with that, as I am sure that all fans would be as well. Bachmann did omit the moving eye mechanism in the large scale Winston after all.

Thanks for responding, I enjoy the conversation. :) I see your point, but I'm not certain that I'm necessarily jumping to conclusions by talking about Daisy in a less-than-optimistic way. I'd be fine with omitting the eye mechanism in favor of clear windows as well, but the issue I see taking precedence is that I don't think they'd use a Class 101 tooling for her even if there's one available in the UK range, and that's because Mattel has the final say on how characters are depicted even if that sacrifices realism (which admittedly isn't a big selling point in many fans' eyes). Looking at the narrow-gauge range, Rheneas isn't a fully-accurate representation of Dolgoch, while Skarloey is closer to Talyllyn apart from the oversized cylinders. The difference between those two and the HO range is that the HOn30/OO9 line was drawn up with older modellers in mind specifically (as well as for conversions), while the HO/OO range is not. It *has* to be able to sell to kids while the narrow-gauge line doesn't necessarily need to do that, which is also why they can charge $150 for a die-cast Skarloey but keep a much larger plastic-bodied Duck around $80. Daisy would fall into the "needs to be sold to kids" category much more than Skarloey and Rheneas, and she'd be made of a new CGI-accurate tooling and a plastic body because of that. All that is fine if it means that she finally comes into the range, but if it happens, expect her to be shorter-framed with silver windows in order to meet Mattel's demands. They won't omit the eye mechanism just for clear windows on a model this large; the narrow-gauge engines are practically impossible to rig in such a way and I don't know enough about the large-scale range to comment on Winston.

Quote from: Chaz on March 26, 2018, 03:47:57 AM
Sidney, Splatter, Dodge and any other 08 recolors are models Bachmann could make if they really wanted to.  Aside from Sidney there isn't all that much in it for Mattel.  Of course the comparison of Splatter and Dodge being compared to the Spiteful brake van is an interesting one (and a pretty valid point honestly) since it's basically the same scenario.  I'm still not sold on them doing another 08 recolor.  If they do, as I noted before that would really be overusing the 08 tooling. Five (including Grumpy Diesel) is more than enough.  Especially if it's three years in a row with this year's being completely unnecessary.

-

Either way as long as Bachmann is willing to go the extra mile next year for HO and not do a recolor of the 08 tooling, or even pull something in a similar vein of Grumpy Diesel like "Red Rosie" (please don't do that Bachmann, one Rosie model is more than enough...) then that will make me feel a little more encouraged for Bachmann's future in HO.

Give it maybe 2-4 years and they'll probably do a red Rosie anyway. If they're willing to change Diesel's face (and still not to an actual Series 2-esque scowl, unfortunately) and give mods to Thomas, then a repainted Rosie is equally as likely as far as ways for them to make a new model as cheaply as possible. I'm still just upset that the James "repaint" hardly changed his design at all, and that he, Percy and Thomas have not been redesigned properly, or that we haven't received an "LBSC" green Thomas either. I'd want any one of those to be made before red Rosie. Seriously, Percy's model is kind of terrible and should have been redone years ago.

Recall that I prefaced my original post by saying that I wasn't sure if my ideas would come as early as 2019 or even at all, and that mostly applies to Sidney. Bachmann's in a unique position with the show where they can keep making class 08 lookalike characters for several years to come thanks to all the reskins in the show. If anything, I'd hope they tackle a new design before going back to Sidney, but he's a definite safeguard possibility. I'm in agreement with you in that I wish they'd take a break from this tooling (and get some non-CGI faces for Diesel, 'Arry and Bery as well... my god these faces are terrible for them).

I just wonder if reducing the number of products for the HO line one year (like next year, or not) would allow them to allocate enough of the budget to make a tender engine? I would be perfectly fine with that if it means getting a non-tank engine.

How about some old coaches from season 1. These cars were pulled by Edward, and Henry. Since they're painted as the express coaches. Reusing the paint should be easy of green and cream. That can be an easy repaint of the red branch line coaches.

Seeing as this thread has been inactive for over a month now, I think it's time I made a post on what I feel Bachmann should include in the 2019 large scale announcements.  My list is as follows...

James the Red Engine w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)
Emily w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)
Toby the Tram Engine w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)

Lets discuss why Bachmann should add these 3 additions to the large scale range.  For a start, large scale announcements over the last few years have pretty much been a letdown with the exception of some of the van recolors and possibly even the Spiteful Brakevan.  This is because the common trend we've seen with the large scale range is the constant addition of recolors, rather than new toolings that people keep asking for like Henrietta and/or Edward.  Diesel would have been the saving grace for large scale this year, but seeing as the model was cancelled due to a potentially high RRP, it leaves Bachmann skating on thin ice with Thomas fans and/or large scale modelers.

Now it's understandable Bachmann is clearly trying to save on production costs (and oblige to Mattel's BS), but I think there's a better way of doing it.  If Bachmann were to introduce James, Emily, and Toby with DCC sound, they would simply be taking their existing models and installing the existing DCC sound module in them.  Now there is a little more to it than just throwing a sound module in the models and calling it a day, but I just want to stick to the basic's here without getting caught up in how everything works.

One of the big reasons Bachmann should introduce James, Emily, and Toby with DCC sound is that the models would be more cost convenient for the buyer.  I myself (like many others I'm sure) would rather buy the models with DCC sound factory installed, rather than go through the headache of adding it myself.  After doing substantial research and talking with fellow large scale modelers, it's pretty clear that the cost of adding DCC sound to the large scale Thomas & Friends models is outrageous.  Just the sound module alone is going to cost around $100 at the least.  Throw in a solder pad, speaker, and all the other hardware you're going to need to install everything, and you might as well just slap another $100+ onto the project.  Not to mention the cost you'll have into paying someone to do it for you, that is unless you want to attempt the project yourself.

As I've seen, in the case of Thomas and Percy, it would actually be cheaper for someone just to go out and buy the existing models with DCC sound factory installed, rather than trying to convert the models they already have.  I actually decided to make that switch last year and just sell off my old Thomas and Percy models to buy the DCC sound ones.  However, unless Bachmann makes James and Emily as well, my models (James and Emily that is) won't have this feature.  Although I'm still yet to get Thomas and Percy, I have seen video's of the models running and the sound feature on them is excellent.  Bachmann wasn't kidding when they said, "Bring the sounds of Sodor to life..."  I'd really like to hear the other sounds offered by the module as well, but seeing as the cost to convert existing models is too expensive for most modelers, this is yet to be attempted if it ever will be.

Aside from collecting just the Thomas & Friends line from Bachmann, I also got into the Spectrum line which offers some great models that come with sound as well.  For a start, the iconic Bachmann 10-wheeler and the 2-6-0 Industrial Mogul have speed synchronized sound, which really adds life to the models.  My most recent addition, the Two-Truck Climax includes DCC sound on board just like the Thomas and Percy models, but only a little more elaborate and with more sound options.  Having DCC sound added to the models gives them that much more life and only adds to the models appeal.

The only downside I can really see to the DCC sound models is that they will be a little more expensive than just the standard Thomas models, but the payoff is worth it in the long run.  Thomas and Percy have an RRP of about $80 more than their standard counterparts, but I think that's still a better deal than paying over $400 for a large scale Devious Diesel.  I think it may also be beneficial for Bachmann (if they add DCC sound to all their engines) to just discontinue the standard models considering the DCC sound models are setup to run on either digital or analog anyways.  If someone doesn't want a model with sound, then it's easy enough to just turn the sound off or remove the speaker.

Now I'm sure there's at least one of you out there wondering why I didn't bring up adding Winston with DCC sound to the range.  This is because if Bachmann couldn't even give the model moving eyes (because they were already fighting just to put a motor assembly in it) then there's no chance in hell they would have the room to fit a speaker and sound system into the model either.  In addition to that, Winston would require a sound module to be made for him, as the existing module doesn't include his sounds.  In the end there would be no beneficial reason for Bachmann to do this.

Another thing Bachmann could consider for 2019 is adding a DCC sound Thomas set to their large scale range.  Considering the Thomas, Annie, and Clarabel set was discontinued this year, it does leave newcomers without a starter set that comes with Thomas.  It also leaves others a little confused as to why Bachmann made the choice to discontinue the set, when it was in fact the best seller in the Large Scale Thomas & Friends range.  Furthermore, it comes as a surprise that Percy of all characters manages to keep a set over Thomas.  As Bachmann themselves has said (and I quote), "Usually when people buy a set, they want one with Thomas in it."

If Bachmann were to make a DCC sound set, they could simply bring back the Thomas, Annie, and Clarabel set with a DCC sound Thomas, or do something different like Thomas with 2 or 3 wagons.  Maybe if Bachmann feels the sales would be there, they could introduce 2 different sets.  Updating Percy's set with a DCC sound Percy would possibly be another thing Bachmann could do, but I honestly feel it's more likely Bachmann will discontinue the set before that ever happens.  Then again, large scale over the last few years has been pretty unpredictable, and as I said before, surprisingly Percy has managed to keep a set over Thomas.  Although some are probably still a little unsure about a DCC Thomas & Friends set, it could give Bachmann another something to add to their 2019 large scale announcements.

So what are my final thoughts on adding James, Emily, and Toby with DCC sound on board to the range?  Considering the chances of Bachmann making a new engine character again doesn't seem practical, I feel this would be a great way for them to redeem large scale after almost half a decade of underwhelming announcements.  Just updating James, Emily, and Toby might not be as impressive as Edward getting announced, but these models would definitely move better than the tanker recolors Bachmann served us up for 2018.  The demand for these models is definitely there, and adding them to the range may encourage more people to go out and buy Thomas and Percy as well.  As I said before, the only real issue I see is that the models would have a higher RRP, but at the same time Bachmann would have less costs into production and wouldn't require any new toolings.  So to wrap things up, this is definitely something Bachmann should consider for the 2019 announcements.

-Rusty

I also think they should make Stepney for the HO range, because of the reasons everyone else has stated. I would buy him, and I am sure a lot of other people would too. I also remember that it was hard to find him for TrackMaster too. I got one in 2011, then accidentally broke it, and I couldn't find a new one until 2013, even though it was never discontinued.

Now that summer break has started I figured I would share my thoughts on what might happen next year in list form.  Seeing as how it's been a while since the 2018 announcements and I feel like the summer time in particular is a good time to get thoughts out.

HO:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5b/RustytotheRescue61.png/revision/latest?cb=20120406162403)
Stepney - If we get an engine next year in HO, Stepney in my eyes is the best choice.  He may not be in full CGI yet, but with a number of recent additions tying in nicely with Stepney, including Rusty, Stepney feels like a very natural addition to the range.  Because he is a small tank engine with a color contrast I can also see Mattel being on board with this as well, and he would be a very popular seller as the Hornby model has proved both during its release and re-release.  He's honestly the only tank engine Bachmann could make that would sell really well too, moreso than Stanley, Charlie, and especially Nia.  See my post on Stepney.

My actual expectation for an HO engine though at this point is either no new engine in HO and instead just announcing rolling stock and possibly some resin buildings.   Or maybe getting engines with DCC and sound in HO too.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/40/TheSpotlessRecord35.png/revision/latest?cb=20150210214209)
Troublesome Truck #6 - Hoping it's the single vent van (ice cream wagon) tooling with another classic facial expression.  Though I wouldn't mind if they went with a tanker either.  Just as long as it's not the one from Journey Beyond Sodor...

But if Bachmann wants to throw a curveball for a new troublesome truck...

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6d/DirtyObjects4.png/revision/latest?cb=20171022072708)
Honestly if we got the Spiteful brake van of all things I really don't see what's stopping Bachmann from stopping them from doing a season 1 troublesome truck?  All Bachmann has to do is repaint a truck and make eyes and mouth decals for a face as opposed to making a faceplate.  It's cost effective, nostalgic, and guaranteed to be a strong seller. 

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5f/Thomas%2CPercyandtheDragon38.png/revision/latest?cb=20100413164204)
The Chinese Dragon - Personally, I think the the flat car itself would be a welcome addition back to the range but I would prefer that they change the load.  I feel like the Chinese Dragon in particular would work since it's a bright and colorful kid-friendly load that younger fans would like while older fans would appreciate the nostalgia behind it.  I could see both Bachmann and Mattel giving it the green flag.

I also think Bachmann needs to tone it down with the futile rolling stock recolors.  Even though they are suggestions from Mattel, no one is buying them and I feel like they only take up space if no one is buying them.  Quality not Quantity.

Plastic building:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d5/OliverOwnsUp23.png/revision/latest?cb=20130211151449)

Coal hopper - Just like how we got two new accurate water towers it would be nice if we got a new coal hopper for the very same reason.  It would be a very simple design too.  I can see them going for the design seen in the Adventure Begins onward, but if Bachmann wanted to go for a simple design, as well as one that people would buy more than one of, then the one used in seasons 2-3 would be a much wiser choice.

Resin buildings (if we get any):

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/9a/Granpuff27.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116205025)
Narrow gauge engine sheds - This would be the most ideal building choice for narrow gauge, especially to those who need them for their own layout.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/34/ThomasandtheGuard43.png/revision/latest?cb=20160711191003)
Ffarquhar station - An iconic location in the series, especially since its return in the Adventure Begins.  Although, the CG design is more likely, I feel like the classic design would sell better and would be easier and cheaper for Bachmann to make.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/cd/PutUponPercy13.png/revision/latest?cb=20160729002449)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/25/ThomasToTheRescue48.png/revision/latest?cb=20161104234704)
The fuel depot - Such a simple and basic design and would go great for the diesel models Bachmann has made.  It would be a little abnormal, much like the black loch folly, but again it would be a really simple design to make.  Plus for those with industrial buildings on layouts already, these would make nice add-on additions to go with them (shown in the second image).  I could see it happening.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/df/Percy%27sChocolateCrunch68.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20171219021518)
Mr. Jolly's Chocolate Factory - This is one I can easily see happening, thanks to our good friends at Mattel.  A kid-friendly location that was introduced in the classic series, seems like something they would do.

Narrow gauge:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bc/MainPeterSamCGI.png/revision/latest?cb=20171025152052)
Peter Sam - Unlike Duncan, or pretty much any other narrow gauge engine besides Sir Handel, I think Peter Sam has the most potential to be made next.  He also offers a nice color contrast and has one of the best designs both on the show and basis wise.  Hard to go wrong with him.  See my post on Peter Sam.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6b/ABadDayForSirHandel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20170530171405)
Brake vans (blue, red, and brown) - Brake vans are pretty much essential for the narrow gauge line and it's the only rolling stock in narrow gauge that has a real urgency regarding rolling stock demand.  Any other rolling stock choices for narrow gauge should be kept a lower priority.  See my post on narrow gauge brake vans.

Large scale:
DCC and sound James, Toby, and Emily - Honestly, this needs to happen.  I think Bachmann's safest bet would be to announce these last three engines to go along with the Thomas and Percy locomotives with DCC and sound.  Plus people I've talked to have mentioned issues they have had with the module and have had a difficult time either getting the module/decoder installed, or finding the right speaker for the models that isn't a ridiculously expensive price.

I honestly don't see them adding any rolling stock for large scale next year.  If you want Henrietta or any new rolling stock toolings, you might have to make your own at this point.  Same could also be said for making your own custom models of other engines, like Edward or Mavis.  At a push, I could see them doing the red coaches, but I think that's the best Bachmann can do with the large scale range.  They would definitely sell better than any of the rolling stock that Bachmann has announced in large scale in over five years, as the HO models have proved before.  It would also see passenger stock that isn't limited to just Thomas and Emily.

Here's hoping 2019 is the year Bachmann can turn things around.

As usual, I enjoyed reading your post very much Chaz, and it's especially nice to see some new resin building ideas.

I find the fuel depot especially unique, as it would give Bachmann more of a purpose for announcing Diesel Co. Fuel Tanker this year. Is it the two green towers that you are referring to?

Mr. Jolly's Chocolate Factory is another distinctive idea. The only thing that I could see stopping Bachmann from making it is its large size.

(http://i67.tinypic.com/2qsmi6o.png)

Since you mentioned kid-friendly locations, two other ideas that I could Mattel approving are some carnival stalls...

(http://i67.tinypic.com/16h4sy1.png)

(http://i67.tinypic.com/kagps9.png)

as well as the bandstand. I could see these going wonderfully with the Chinese Dragon too.

Yep the green towers are what I am mainly referring to.

Those I think would make nice small resin buildings too.  And again, they are also kid-friendly and also have nostalgia.  I could actually see these look really nice on your layout in particular, actually!

Here's my wish list for 2019

HO scale
Diesel 10(I don't care what people say, he CAN be made Bachmann just has to find a way around it.)
Explosives Van
Troublesome Truck 6
James' Composite Coach
James' brake coach

HO narrow Gauge
Peter Sam
Sir Handle
Brake Van
Box van

Resin Buildings
Farquhar Station
Narrow Gauge shed

Large Scale
I've lost hope for any engines but for rolling stock....
Troublesome Truck 3

For me, I'd be interested to see:

HO Scale Locomotives:
-Daisy or Stepney. Daisy is more likely, but Stepney would be great too.

HO Scale Rolling Stock:
-Troublesome Truck 6. Either a van repainted brown with a face, or a tanker repainted black with a face. A solid black tanker with no
 logos or words would also be good for customizers to just pop the face off and weather it and boom, generic Thomas and Friends
 Tankers!
-Dark Brown Utility Wagon. Perfect for early Model Series fans!
-Flatbed with Removable _____ Load. Would be the Flat Car With Paint Drums tooling. Not sure what type of load I prefer, but oil
drums, pipes, logs, crates, or something covered with a tarp would be good.

HOn30 Narrow Gauge Locomotives:
-Peter Sam or Sir Handel. Not too picky about which one first, but definitely one of them next.

HOn30 Narrow Gauge Rolling Stock:
-Brown Brake Van. For freight trains, of course!
-Red Brake Van. For the Red Coaches, obviously!
-Blue Brake Van. For the Blue Coaches, of course!
-Tanker or Flatbed car. If anything else, these would be my choices. Whether D. Fusit Gunpowder Tankers or some other design, a
 tanker would be cool for Narrow Gauge, and flat beds would be good for making utility trains for Rusty to pull around your layout
 as though he's helping to fix old and broken tracks!

HO Scale Resing Buildings (if Bachmann brought them back):
-Farquhar Station. Iconic to the Classic Model Series, and has now returned in the CGI series. Perfect for any modeler!
-Station Platform. This could be done as a small plastic kit instead, but I'm basically thinking about the platform that sits on the
 other side of the tracks opposite Maithwaite Station. Done right, it could be used with any other station Bachmann makes or has
 made in this line as an extension!
-Covered Shed. Mainly thinking about the small open shed that sits next to Tidmouth Sheds. That design has been used around
 Sodor, so there's several different things you can do with it!
-Coal Bunker. Seen all over the Island of Sodor, these would be great, small, little additions to the scenery that fulfill a great
 purpose. And would be nice to see Bachmann complement these later on with newly designed Coal Towers too!!!
-If anything else, I'd add some Great Waterton shops. Then perhaps over the next several years Bachmann could release the Great
 Waterton Station and the other buildings seen in Great Waterton? Now that Hornby gave up the HO/OO license for the UK,
 Bachmann has so much of an open chance to do so many new things, and sell in many new places!!

HOn30 Narrow Gauge Resin Buildings (If Bachmann brought them back):
-Narrow Gauge Engine Shed: For me, I'd prefer the shed seen in Season 4 where all the Narrow Gauge engines rested, the one that
 sits right next to part of the Standard Gauge Main Line.
-Narrow Gauge Water Tower. Those engines gotta get water to, ya know! ;)
-Narrow Gauge Coal Bunker. Would also be great, much needed additions to your Narrow Gauge line, as these little engines need
 coal too!! ;)

If they do plastic kits again, then the Station Platform I mentioned earlier would be great!

G Scale Locomotives:
-I'd prefer Edward, but since it looks like they won't ever do him or any non-tank engine or bigger diesel ever again, I'd say either
 Bill and Ben, or Duck. Both would be good base's for customizers, as I don't think their respective basis' are available in G Scale?
 And Duck would be an extremely great seller in any scale, TBH. :D

G Scale Rolling Stock:
-Red Branch Line Coaches. Pretty obvious why: Easy retool of Annie and Clarabel, several G Scale engines that are already available
 pull them around on the show, gives more options than just Annie and Clarabel or Emily's Coaches, and are just fan favorites!
 Wonder if Bachmann would consider giving them white roofs like in the Model Series? Would be a nice little difference compared to
 the HO Scale versions!
-Troublesome Truck 3. Long overdue. Could be pretty much anything, but a tanker or box van would be preferable.
-Don't know if Bachmann has any existing toolings to bring over from the Bachmann UK line of products to use as Express Coaches
 (or even Red Express Coaches, AKA, Henry's/James' Coaches), but if they do, it might be nice to see them do so. More than likely
 not next year, but it would be a pleasant surprise! And utilizing toolings they already have I imagine would help keep the cost of
 production low?

This list isn't necessarily everything I want to see all next year or expect to see all in one year's releases, just the things I think could be likely. We could get some of these, but not all of them at once. Anyone want to chime in their thoughts on this list?

I think most of the ideas that you listed are pretty solid choices. I don't think we will get more than one narrow gauge engine though. Probably just one a year considering their track record.  Same with rolling stock quantity.  In terms of HO, I can definitely see the flat car and a new load (which I mentioned earlier too).  I'm surprised a utility van hasn't been considered yet, especially since they would most likely paint the mail car brown.

The resin building suggestions all sound pretty likely, but I don't think they will do separate buildings for different ranges, rather than just announce new additions for the resin line as a whole.  One addition or two for narrow gauge definitely could find its way in the lineup though like the Trackside Station.

Probably the only thing I don't see happening is a new engine in large scale. I know that sounds pessimistic, but considering that Diesel got canceled for that range, I am really not sure if we will get a new engine at all anytime soon.   It wouldn't surprise me if Toby turned out to be the last engine to join the range.  At best I can see the rest of the engines coming out with DCC and sound, and maybe bring in a Thomas sound set.  Aside from that, as well as some rolling stock, I really don't see much else going for large scale at this point.

Yeah, I tried being optimistic for the G Scale line. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if the G Scale line just dies out in the not-too-distant future. If that were to happen, maybe it would be at a time when Bachmann would be able to get a hold of the O Scale Thomas and Friends license?

Quote from: Chaz on June 15, 2018, 12:12:13 AM
Now that summer break has started I figured I would share my thoughts on what might happen next year in list form.  Seeing as how it's been a while since the 2018 announcements and I feel like the summer time in particular is a good time to get thoughts out.

HO:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5b/RustytotheRescue61.png/revision/latest?cb=20120406162403)
Stepney - If we get an engine next year in HO, Stepney in my eyes is the best choice.  He may not be in full CGI yet, but with a number of recent additions tying in nicely with Stepney, including Rusty, Stepney feels like a very natural addition to the range.  Because he is a small tank engine with a color contrast I can also see Mattel being on board with this as well, and he would be a very popular seller as the Hornby model has proved both during its release and re-release.  He's honestly the only tank engine Bachmann could make that would sell really well too, moreso than Stanley, Charlie, and especially Nia.  See my post on Stepney.

My actual expectation for an HO engine though at this point is either no new engine in HO and instead just announcing rolling stock and possibly some resin buildings.   Or maybe getting engines with DCC and sound in HO too.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/40/TheSpotlessRecord35.png/revision/latest?cb=20150210214209)
Troublesome Truck #6 - Hoping it's the single vent van (ice cream wagon) tooling with another classic facial expression.  Though I wouldn't mind if they went with a tanker either.  Just as long as it's not the one from Journey Beyond Sodor...

But if Bachmann wants to throw a curveball for a new troublesome truck...

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6d/DirtyObjects4.png/revision/latest?cb=20171022072708)
Honestly if we got the Spiteful brake van of all things I really don't see what's stopping Bachmann from stopping them from doing a season 1 troublesome truck?  All Bachmann has to do is repaint a truck and make eyes and mouth decals for a face as opposed to making a faceplate.  It's cost effective, nostalgic, and guaranteed to be a strong seller.  

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5f/Thomas%2CPercyandtheDragon38.png/revision/latest?cb=20100413164204)
The Chinese Dragon - Personally, I think the the flat car itself would be a welcome addition back to the range but I would prefer that they change the load.  I feel like the Chinese Dragon in particular would work since it's a bright and colorful kid-friendly load that younger fans would like while older fans would appreciate the nostalgia behind it.  I could see both Bachmann and Mattel giving it the green flag.

I also think Bachmann needs to tone it down with the futile rolling stock recolors.  Even though they are suggestions from Mattel, no one is buying them and I feel like they only take up space if no one is buying them.  Quality not Quantity.

Plastic building:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d5/OliverOwnsUp23.png/revision/latest?cb=20130211151449)

Coal hopper - Just like how we got two new accurate water towers it would be nice if we got a new coal hopper for the very same reason.  It would be a very simple design too.  I can see them going for the design seen in the Adventure Begins onward, but if Bachmann wanted to go for a simple design, as well as one that people would buy more than one of, then the one used in seasons 2-3 would be a much wiser choice.

Resin buildings (if we get any):

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/9a/Granpuff27.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116205025)
Narrow gauge engine sheds - This would be the most ideal building choice for narrow gauge, especially to those who need them for their own layout.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/34/ThomasandtheGuard43.png/revision/latest?cb=20160711191003)
Ffarquhar station - An iconic location in the series, especially since its return in the Adventure Begins.  Although, the CG design is more likely, I feel like the classic design would sell better and would be easier and cheaper for Bachmann to make.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/cd/PutUponPercy13.png/revision/latest?cb=20160729002449)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/25/ThomasToTheRescue48.png/revision/latest?cb=20161104234704)
The fuel depot - Such a simple and basic design and would go great for the diesel models Bachmann has made.  It would be a little abnormal, much like the black loch folly, but again it would be a really simple design to make.  Plus for those with industrial buildings on layouts already, these would make nice add-on additions to go with them (shown in the second image).  I could see it happening.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/df/Percy%27sChocolateCrunch68.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20171219021518)
Mr. Jolly's Chocolate Factory - This is one I can easily see happening, thanks to our good friends at Mattel.  A kid-friendly location that was introduced in the classic series, seems like something they would do.

Narrow gauge:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bc/MainPeterSamCGI.png/revision/latest?cb=20171025152052)
Peter Sam - Unlike Duncan, or pretty much any other narrow gauge engine besides Sir Handel, I think Peter Sam has the most potential to be made next.  He also offers a nice color contrast and has one of the best designs both on the show and basis wise.  Hard to go wrong with him.  See my post on Peter Sam.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6b/ABadDayForSirHandel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20170530171405)
Brake vans (blue, red, and brown) - Brake vans are pretty much essential for the narrow gauge line and it's the only rolling stock in narrow gauge that has a real urgency regarding rolling stock demand.  Any other rolling stock choices for narrow gauge should be kept a lower priority.  See my post on narrow gauge brake vans.

...

Here's hoping 2019 is the year Bachmann can turn things around.

Pretty much all of these ideas are great, and ones I can easily get behind, Chaz. The Chinese Dragon and Ffarquhar station in particular.

(https://orig00.deviantart.net/ae47/f/2015/109/c/8/ryan_by_rattlerjones-d8qc0nm.png)

I still have hope for Ryan being made into the line, considering the product line right now is moving more towards characters that are in the current series, but still are small enough to not be too expensive to engineer and produce. Since Ryan has appeared in a large amount of episodes in season 20/21, has a colorful, unique paint scheme, and has been well received by both new and old fans alike (unlike Rosie) since Lost Treasure, I say the new engine in the HO line should be him, and I'd be more than happy to purchase one of him.

As a fan of season 3, I wouldn't mind a recreation of the three-tier trestle bridge with concrete piers in the building lineup, if that's possible. I can't imagine it would be too expensive to make the bridges in plastic, unless it would just be easier to customize them yourself.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/ff/OneGoodTurn77.png/revision/latest?cb=20160714013358)

Or perhaps one of these bare bone sheds in plastic? They appear quite often and can be used in multiple areas and scenarios.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/82/DoubleTeethingTroubles44.png/revision/latest?cb=20120508130933)

So I've decided to make a post on 2019 Narrow Gauge announcements.  I've seen a few people touch on some of these ideas already and I'm going to do the same.  I'm also going to throw in a couple other ideas I feel may be beneficial for the range.  Considering Narrow Gauge seems to be the only range that hasn't been suffering from poor announcements the last few years, I feel it's the range we should be trying to focus our attention on at this time.

Let's start off with Peter Sam.  Over the course of the last couple years there's been a lot of demand for him, and although many of us were happy to see coaches in the 2018 announcements, the absence of Peter Sam was a little disappointing.  Still, given that Rusty was the only narrow gauge model we got for 2017 (and we're still waiting for...), it's very much understandable.  There is also hope that Rusty makes it out before the 2019 announcements, as I feel his absence is part of the reason Bachmann decided not to introduce an engine into the range for 2018.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bc/MainPeterSamCGI.png/revision/latest?cb=20171025152052)

Now Peter Sam actually presents quite a few positives if announced.  For starters, he is one of the more popular narrow gauge engines and has made a number of appearances in recent seasons.  From memory, he's also had several starring roles in every season that features the narrow gauge engines.  Even in recent seasons, Peter Sam still continues this trend whether he's got the lead role or just makes a number of cameos.

Peter Sam is also a model that people would potentially buy 2 or more of.  This is mainly because of modelers out there that are into making customs.  Some may want to make Stuart, which would mean changing out the funnel and nameplates.  You've also got the diehard fans who want Peter Sam from his memorable moment with the drain pipe as a substitute funnel.   Throw in your Railway Series fan boys and/or Talyllyn modelers, and you've got that many more potential sales for Peter Sam.  Put simply, the model is sure to sell out faster than a rainbow-print shirt at an LGBT festival.  I'm also willing to bet Peter Sam would be the best seller out of all the ranges since Rheneas came out.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5c/YouCan%27tWin32.png/revision/latest?cb=20160121214523) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/e5/SpecialFunnel48.png/revision/latest?cb=20160117203754)

Another thing Bachmann should consider for Narrow Gauge is a breakvan.  This was another addition that people have asked for and were hoping to see alongside Peter Sam.  A breakvan does present another advantage for Narrow Gauge, as it's a piece of rolling stock people would buy multiples of.  However, it's also a piece of rolling stock Bachmann "can make multiples of".  If Bachmann were to introduce a brakevan, it's tooling could be reused for 2 additional recolors just as they did with the slate trucks.  Therefore, Bachmann could introduce 3 new pieces of rolling stock for the cost of 1.  Couldn't be easier.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/ea/Granpuff56.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116210335) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c7/SleepingBeauty29.png/revision/latest?cb=20160209193820) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/0b/Granpuff46.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116205925)

Another addition that Bachmann could possibly introduce into Narrow Gauge is the V tipper trucks.  I'm not really sure as to how much demand there is for these, but I'm sure they would be a nice piece of rolling stock to add to the range considering the emphasis on mining for the Skarloey Railway.  I think these would be great additions to go along with the slate trucks in the range already, and I'm sure modelers would love to have these for their quarry layouts.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/14/TheChristmasTreeExpress7.png/revision/latest?cb=20151210005221)

To wrap things up, I think it would also be in Bachmann's best interest to discontinue the Peco stock and create their own van tooling.  Yes it was understandable to have the Peco wagons back when Skarloey was released (as they were the only rolling stock available), but now we have the slate trucks and the upcoming coaches.  That being said, I'm pretty sure Narrow Gauge could stay afloat with the current rolling stock it has now.  Furthermore, I don't think sales on the Peco wagons were that profitable to begin with, as many people I know just went straight to Peco for the stock.  Then again, the Peco stock may have already been discontinued and Bachmann is still trying to clear out the remaining inventory in the warehouse.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/16/PeterSamandtheRefreshmentLady3.png/revision/latest?cb=20160913150059)

So in conclusion, Peter Sam, breakvan(s), V tipper trucks, and box vans seem like good ideas for 2019 announcements.  Mainly I just have hopes for Peter Sam and breakvans, but the other ideas I mentioned are welcome as well.  Considering Narrow Gauge announcements have been minimal the last couple years with either an engine or rolling stock getting announced, I think Peter Sam and 3 new brakevans would get a lot of people excited.  As I've said in previous posts, Narrow Gauge is the only range I have hope for at this point considering the downhill decline HO and Large Scale have been on for a number of years.  If anyone else would like to contribute to the idea's I've mentioned above, please do so.

-Rusty

I feel like I would be a broken record at this point with my thoughts on the narrow gauge thoughts, so, I will keep them brief, in response to your post.

I completely agree that Peter Sam is the most logical choice for an engine for the narrow gauge range.  He would be a safe bet too, considering how accurate his render is, and fans would buy multiples of him.  I can easily see him selling better than Rusty, possibly even Rheneas.

Brake vans I think are really the only rolling stock that have a strong demand for narrow gauge.  Honestly, I'm surprised we don't have them announced already.

Tippers I think are almost a given, probably not something I would nearly appreciate as much as the slate wagons but they would seem like safe bets with their usage in Blue Mountain Quarry.

I am genuinely amazed that the vans are still in production considering how they aren't really accurate to what's on the show and how expensive they are.  Making new ones in a new tooling wouldn't be a horrible idea, and if anything would help increase sales for the range.  Personally, I'd prefer these over tippers.

Plow Bender, I'm inclined in agree with most of what you said, minus the idea that the company should discontinue one tooling in favor of another. I know lots of people (myself included) can't always afford the NG range except for once in a great while, so I'd rather see the company hold out for a few years with what they have to give more people a chance to catch up and let the market value go down.

That aside, the only other likely addition I can imagine coming anytime soon is Duncan. I'm sure it's been mentioned before, but right now the only locomotive characters I can imagine them adding straight after Rusty are Duncan or Peter Sam; Sir Handel, unfortunately, is looking to be the last of the lot. I'd throw Duncan in there because he's arguably more popular that PS, certainly has had more episodes written about him, and matches the current color pattern much better than Samwise does. Example:

>2015: Skarloey- red
>2017: Rheneas- vermillion
>2018/19: Rusty- orange
>2020/21: Duncan- yellow

If they introduce Sam first, which I honestly think will happen and I'd actually prefer (to allow Jam-Filled time to fix Duncan's crappy render), the rainbow effect they're going for goes out the window. It doesn't help that Bachmann made Rheneas a lighter shade of orange instead of scarlet vermillion either, but no one seems bothered by that. Either way it's going to come down to one of these two. If you want pros and cons between both, I'd outline it as follows:

Duncan:
-yellow color blends nicely with first three characters released, continues smooth color transition
-releasing 5 and 6 back to back allows a perfect gap for 3 and 4 to follow onto the line in a manner similar to the books (weird point, but still a point)
-Good way to get more kids involved in the range as he's got more popularity with his contrarian personality
-More stories written for him in every era of the show
However...
-CGI render looks awful, releasing him now would be the same as Bachmann Oliver received; couldn't be redone if JFE remakes the render

Peter Sam:
-Much more accurate design than Duncan currently has, would be ideal for conversions as long as they keep him as accurate as Skarloey was and don't short-change him like Rheneas has been
-Green contrasts the red-orange engines more than Duncan, but loses the color pattern
-Pushed quite a bit in marketing elsewhere, so still quite popular and likely to be pressed for by Mattel
However...
-Not expecting Sir Handel for several years means he'll have no classic partner until after Duncan is released

Take your pick, really.

You do have a few good points there Mr. DecadesofSun.  I'm still not on board with Bachmann hanging on to the Peco wagons however.  Just like Chaz pointed out in his post, the Peco wagons don't even resemble the rolling stock used on the show, and they're price is far more than a lot of modelers out there are willing to pay.  I personally feel the same way myself, and although I wouldn't mind having a few of the red vans, I still can't bring myself to pay $64 a piece for them.

The big reason the Thomas & Friends Peco stock is so expensive is because Bachmann has to give a portion of their profits to Peco because the wagon tooling's themselves belong to Peco.  I would be far more cost convenient for both Bachmann and the consumer if Bachmann were to make their own tooling for vans.  This is why the slate trucks were so cheap when they were announced.  If Bachmann made their own van tooling, they could easily keep cost down and the models would potentially sell better than what the range has now.

The Thomas & Friends Peco wagons cost $64 each, and when you could get the same wagons (different livery) from Peco for about $25-$30 (almost half that of Bachmann) it's simply no contest.  In addition to that, if you were to shop around online, you could pick up the Peco wagons themselves for under $20 each at best.  As I've mentioned before, a lot of people I know have simply gone to Peco for the stock, rather than paying double the price for the Bachmann models.  I've done the same thing myself and $25 seems a lot more reasonable.

Although I hate to say it, I honestly wouldn't count on the market value going down on the Thomas & Friends Peco stock, as the vans were originally $63 back in 2016, and within the last 2 years have gone up by a dollar.  Skarloey and Rheneas suffered the same fate as well after they went from $149 each in 2016 to $152 in 2018.  It's the same deal across the whole spectrum.  Now a price jump by a couple dollars may not bother some, but it's honestly a question of what would you be willing to pay in 5 or maybe even 10 years time?

This is however just my opinion on the matter, and it would be nice to hear other peoples thoughts on what they think about the Peco wagons as well.  I've certainly said what I feel would be most beneficial for Bachmann and the consumer, but in the end it's really up to Bachmann which route they want to take and if the budget is there to do whatever they have in mind to do.

I do agree on everything you've mentioned on the Peter Sam Vs. Duncan topic.  The big thing that would steer many away with Duncan is (as you've mentioned) his CGI render is terrible.  I'm definitely all for Bachmann announcing Peter Sam first in hopes that Duncan's render gets corrected in the meantime.  I could see both characters potentially getting announced before Sir Handel, as (far as I'm aware) Bachmann doesn't have measurements of Sir Hayden yet.  I wouldn't take it as the gospel, but there has been discussion that Sir Handel might not even happen considering the direction Bachmann's been going the last few years.  I myself still have hopes for Narrow Gauge though.

I honestly feel Peter Sam is the best choice for 2019, and Duncan for 2020 if his render gets corrected before then.  Like I said in my previous post, I would honestly be happy just to see Peter Sam and brakevans added to the range.  The only concerning issue at this point however is the wait on Rusty, who we still haven't at the least heard an update on.  If his released gets pushed back to 2019, next year's announcements may just end up being more rolling stock.  I'm not too worried on that however, as I'm still pretty confident he'll be out before Christmas.

-Rusty

I was thinking the same things as you guys mentioned.

I been planning on buying some Peco stock like the one box van and 2 sets of slate wagons.

I also agree on different versions of Peter Sam. I could see him with his original funnel and his special funnel. I also thought of Stuart and Falcon for fun for a what if route. Never even crossed my mind by drain pipe Peter Sam.

Sometimes I wonder about the raising cost of Thomas lately. These trains should be some what moderate cheap or expensive in the middle so a teenager or kid could buy.

I do agree that if we really go by the color palette order Duncan would make the most sense, but I feel like the one issue that's been addressed with Duncan, being his CG render, is honestly a huge red flag.  After how Oliver turned out and even some of the design choices made on the Rheneas model, I think it's only inevitable they would go with the CG render for Duncan.  Same could be said for Rusty too.

The issue of Peter Sam being made without Sir Handel honestly wouldn't strike me nearly as much of an issue as Duncan's render.  If anything, I expect the demands for Sir Handel to go even higher after Peter Sam would get announced but I can't hold that against Bachmann making Peter Sam.  It wouldn't be anything new for Bachmann since they've left empty gaps before when announcing some characters before jumping into others who share a similar association to Sir Handel and Peter Sam like Donald and Douglas being announced before Duck and Oliver.

All I'm going to say is- don't get your hopes up for 2019. We'll be lucky to get anything other than recolors.

That being said, Bachmann should look seriously at the prices that their discontinued flatcar is going for on eBay. They have a huge untapped market there similar to the express coaches.

Quote from: Griffin on July 28, 2018, 10:40:56 AM
That being said, Bachmann should look seriously at the prices that their discontinued flatcar is going for on eBay. They have a huge untapped market there similar to the express coaches.

(http://i63.tinypic.com/dooz8x.jpg)

The same can be said for this guy :). I apologize for sounding like a broken record, but the prices that the Hornby model are going for on eBay are astounding, as are the amount of people who are desperate to see Bachmann make him. Let's hope that Mattel won't stop Bachmann from making a new HO loco that will wow all Thomas fans and be an outstanding seller, just as Duck and Oliver were.

Regarding narrow gauge, I have a feeling that Peter Sam will be the next loco. Yet, even if Duncan is next, I am confident that his model will be in proportion to Douglas (Duncan's basis).

(http://i66.tinypic.com/2m6wsab.jpg)

In fact, the reason why Bachmann has taken so long to reveal Rusty may be that the prototype was based off the redesigned Midlander design, and was therefore given a red flag by Mattel, considering how different the shape of the model is from the television series model (the biggest notable difference being that the real life model presents the bottom half of the front protruding outward, making it impossible to incorporate the larger CGI face). I am not certain about this, but this may be a possible reason.

(http://i67.tinypic.com/23lnwbd.png)

Going back to Duncan though, I firmly believe that the differences between Duncan's basis and his awful CGI render would not be as noticeable as Rusty's to Mattel (to avid fans like us, it would). Therefore, as long as the measurements of Douglas (Duncan's basis) were taken during the Talyllyn Railway visit, I am sure that we will be in luck when it comes to Duncan. 

However, as long as the narrow gauge range keeps on expanding with more locos, I really feel that Bachmann should consider making a narrow gauge engine shed for the resin building range.

Yeah, I'd buy a Bachmann Stepney! :)

I might actually but in the minority here, but I actually hope that Rusty is based off his TV design. While I do like his S4 face over his S5-12 face, I don't mind Rusty being full CGI.

Another interesting note is how Rusty's CGI render has more detail then Midlander's original design

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/da/Luke%27sNewFriend24.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/800?cb=20180510001751)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/a5/Midlander.jpeg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/640?cb=20160815043931)

Personally I'm thinking that they will more likely go for the CG render, considering most of the marketing standards by Mattel.  Like Oliver, I can't hold it against Bachmann if they choose to go that route even if it isn't my personal preference.  Plus since it will most likely have the same quality that the Skarloey and Rheneas brought to us, I think Rusty will be a nice model once it's revealed, regardless of its design.

If they make another NG steam locomotive I really am hoping for Sir Handel or Peter Sam as I would love to see one of them made or both of them.

Wonder if we'll get some generic open wagon for narrow gauge that resemble the ones on the show and not the Peco china clay ones.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/26/Trucks18.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/633?cb=20170531184434)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/2d/SkarloeyRailwayTrucks.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/640?cb=20140310213929)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/9f/TheSwitch68.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/640?cb=20160623212031)

If the Bachmann Skarloey Coaches become a hit, then I'd personally would like to these announced.

While I don't collect a large scale, I feel it's worth bringing up that Lionel just announced red coaches for their O scale line.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/33vj76x.jpg)

Honestly, it really does surprise me that not even the large scale range has made the red coaches yet, especially when the HO red coaches managed to sell so well.  Perhaps this is worth considering for 2019?  I feel like that these would especially do better than the tankers that got announced this year for large scale (or pretty much anything that they have done in the last couple of years).

Quote from: Chaz on August 23, 2018, 12:04:23 AM
While I don't collect a large scale, I feel it's worth bringing up that Lionel just announced red coaches for their O scale line.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/33vj76x.jpg)

Honestly, it really does surprise me that not even the large scale range has made the red coaches yet, especially when the HO red coaches managed to sell so well.  Perhaps this is worth considering for 2019?  I feel like that these what is specially do better than the tankers that got announced this year for large scale (or pretty much anything that they have done in the last couple of years).

:o Woah! I'm surprised to see Lionel do anything new in their O Scale Thomas and Friends line at all! Interesting. Not too bad looking, but still has those weird proportions that Lionel Thomas model all have, and black roofs instead of white. I notice that they didn't design one of those coaches to be a brake coach. Both of them are composite coaches. That's an odd thing to do. Also, it says that S.C.Ruffey is new. I thought they had already done S.C.Ruffey before? Or have they not and this is the first time they are doing him?

Let's try to refrain from criticism or comments about Lionel since I only used the picture of the new red coaches as a reference and a reminder of why Bachmann should consider making these for their large scale range. ;)

Either way I think it's time Bachmann focused on doing the red coaches for large scale since that range could really benefit from having some more coaches besides Annie, Clarabel, and Emily's coaches.  Henrietta would be nice too in large scale and I feel like she would be very popular with those who already bought Toby.  Plus if they wanted to re-use Henrietta's tooling in large scale they could always release Hannah alongside Henrietta.

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on August 23, 2018, 01:26:50 AM
:o Woah! I'm surprised to see Lionel do anything new in their O Scale Thomas and Friends line at all! Interesting. Not too bad looking, but still has those weird proportions that Lionel Thomas model all have, and black roofs instead of white. I notice that they didn't design one of those coaches to be a brake coach. Both of them are composite coaches. That's an odd thing to do. Also, it says that S.C.Ruffey is new. I thought they had already done S.C.Ruffey before? Or have they not and this is the first time they are doing him?

I'll be honest and say that I too don't care for a lot of what Lionel puts out anymore (at least in terms of T&F items), but I also agree that it's not fair to be criticizing them on what is of course the "Bachmann" forum.  Like Chaz even pointed out, the image was intended as a reference and therefore I would like to give my thoughts on the red coaches in large scale as well.  It's also worth noting that the roofs are actually correct as they went from black to white somewhere around the CGI era.

So that aside now, Chaz does make quite a few good points as Large Scale could definitely use this simple addition.  What I don't understand is why Bachmann hasn't taken a stab at this yet considering the tooling is practically already there with Annie/Clarabel/Emily's Coaches.  I'll second the fact that red coaches would be a "far" better addition to the range than 3 mediocre tanker recolors that literally no one even asked for much less wanted.  Like I keep saying, large scale really does need some help for 2019 and I think Bachmann really needs to take a look at how bad the announcements have been for the range the last few years and look for ways to improve it.

Bachmann has so many existing toolings they could be using to their advantage, but unfortunately they aren't.  They could easily do things like James, Emily, and Toby with DCC sound, Red Coaches, Troublesome Truck #3 (or even #4 and #5), or even an LBSC Thomas.  People have been hounding for a couple years now for TT#3 in large scale, but instead we got the Spiteful Breakvan.  Now I'm not saying this addition was bad, but in my opinion it should have been released in the HO range first.  To be fair, I think that a TT#3 (being a simple van or tanker with a face), would have made more sense rather than taking the original brakevan and slapping a face on it.  Give credit where credit it due I guess.

Although I pretty much lost all hope for Henrietta getting announced for large scale, Bachmann hasn't done a new tooling for the range since Winston and the Ice Cream Van, and Diesel would have been the exception had he not ended up being canceled.  So since everything over the last few years has been nothing more than just recolors, maybe they could get away with making a new tooling for 2019?  Like Chaz mentioned in his post, if they want toolings they can use for recolors, then just use Henrietta to make Hannah.  I'm pretty sure even Hannah would sell better than a Chocolate Syrup Tanker.

That's just my thoughts on the matter though, but even then I still have that nagging feeling that large scale announcements in 2019 will probably be minimal.  Still, the announcements in general have been all over the place in recent years, so it's kind of hard to really predict what exactly will happen.  Still, fingers are crossed for the red coaches to make an appearance in 2019, but I'm not going to hold my breath either.

-Rusty

While we are possibly getting closer to the time of year when Bachmann starts to finalize on what they will announce for the Thomas line in 2019, I thought that I should post what I (and the majority of fans) would like to see in 2019 in a nutshell:

HO Scale
-Stepney (would highly recommend reading Chaz's post, which is found at the bottom of the page, if you have not done so yet: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34526.75.html)
-Flat Car Reintroduction (Various versions with different loads distinguishing them (would highly recommend reading Spark's post if you have not done so yet: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,35062.0.html)
-Troublesome Truck #6: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34526.45.html

Narrow Gauge
-Peter Sam (would highly recommend reading Chaz's post if you have not done so yet: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34526.30.html)

Resin Buildings (if lucky)
-Narrow Gauge Double Engine Shed
-One of the other buildings listed in the following thread: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34707.0.html

Large Scale:
-Red Coach
-Red Brake Coach

or

-Troublesome Truck #3 (Van)
-Troublesome Truck #4 (Tanker)

In my eyes, this is a list of products that seem possible announce in 2019, please ALL fans, and will guarantee strong sales  :).

Hit the nail with a hammer as usual Terence, though I'm surprised you didn't include brake vans for narrow gauge in your post, or any rolling stock for NG for that matter.   Either way, that would be a solid lineup for next year.

Thanks Chaz! I did think about putting the narrow gauge brake vans on the list, but decided not to at the last second after remembering that there can only be so many new toolings announced in one year. Considering that the narrow gauge carriages were the one/two new toolings announced for 2018, I think that narrow gauge rolling stock is the area that can be omitted for 2019. Would definitely love to see them in the future though.

But it's definitely clear that Peter Sam and Stepney are the most anticipated when it comes to new toolings, which is another reason why I hope that Bachmann will not throw away money by making Nia and/or Rebecca, both of whom would be much more expensive to make than Stepney.

That's a completely valid point actually.  Especially considering when only Rusty got announced last year, and this year we only got coaches. I could definitely expect them to do one or the other, even though my personal preference is both, but maybe Bachmann probably wants to wait and see how the coaches will sell before doing brake vans.

Peter Sam is definitely the preferable one I would choose, (if it really came down to it), so if he was the only new announcement for narrow gauge in 2019, I would be pretty happy.

Nia and Rebecca would be a total waste, especially with the reception BWBA/S22 has so far, so I would strongly advise Bachmann to not consider those two and focus more on the characters that were suggested in your post before even giving any thought to Nia and Rebecca (especially with how expensive their models would be).

My 2019 predictions:

HO Scale
Stepney
Explosives Van
Troublesome Truck #6 (tanker)
Red Express Coaches (re-introduction)

Narrow Gauge
Peter Sam

Large Scale
Red Branch Line Coaches

As much as I'd want her, I don't think we'll get HO Daisy anytime soon, given her size, Mattel's marketing standards, and how many recolors we've been getting lately, and very rarely do we get a new tooling for HO Scale. If any new tooling is possible, Stepney should definitely get made, since he's a simple tank engine. HO Stepney would be a hugely successful model, since there is clearly a market for him.

Bachmann must NOT make Nia or Rebecca, given the controversy and reception Big World Big Adventures and Season 22 have had.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/ofswhl.jpg)

If I am not mistaken, Bachmann based Duck's face off his promo shot from the late model series (and painted the mouth white to resemble the season 7 face); if Stepney gets announced, I wonder if Bachmann will base Stepney's face off his promo shot from the late model series too.

(http://i63.tinypic.com/oh5kjl.jpg)

This is my favorite Stepney face after all  :).

Actually the face that Bachmann used as a reference is from season 7:

(http://i64.tinypic.com/28v84k1.jpg)

Duck is, as of now, the last engine to be completely based on a model era appearance anyone who says otherwise, including those on the Wiki over the black running board on the prototype model is objectively wrong.  Hopefully, if Bachmann announces Stepney that would change.  I can easily see the face you mentioned in your post be the face Bachmann would go for since Bachmann has, for the most part, gone for more "toothy" facial expressions when it came to their faces.

No kidding! When looking more closely at Duck's face, the season 7 mouth is a different shape than the promo. I find it amazing that Bachmann used a face for Duck that was only seen in one season though. However, I'm glad to see that we are on the same page regarding Stepney's face.

I didn't even notice the black running board on Duck.

Somebody noticed the Scottish twin engines tender don't have a water tank. I was like what  no way. I double checked the tender and no water tank. For months I wanted to get a actual HO duck to ride in Donald.

Its amazing what details goes in and what other things are forgotten.

My 2019 Predictions!

HO Gauge

Daisy
Sidney
Stepney
G Scale

Diesel

Narrow Gauge

Luke

I'm not sure about the rolling stock though...

After reading your post, daisy or stepney are likely, but like isn't likely at all and Diesel won't happen because they were going to make him but cancelled him so they're clearly not making him sadly

Quote from: angelob6660 on September 08, 2018, 11:27:40 PM
Its amazing what details goes in and what other things are forgotten.

The twins not having water tanks was done deliberately; it's not a detail Bachmann missed. They never actually had water tanks in the TV series.

Nevermind new products for 2019, will Bachmann have a 2019 range at all?

https://www.facebook.com/280631378673120/posts/1843558735713702/

Mattel is slowly laying the axe on Thomas ranges one by one. Wood failed and got pulled, Hornby retired their Thomas range, and now Adventures is being discontinued. In terms of Thomas ranges, the numbers seem to be dwindling more and more.

This raises the question if Lionel, Bachmann and Tomix are next. Will Mattel finally tire of sharing profits with these companies and cut ties? I really hope not, and I feel like that the Bachmann range is one of the most-supported ranges by the collector fandom. I'm hoping that if it -does- get discontinued, we'll at least get signs of it through item discontinuations, rather than have the rug pulled from our feet out of nowhere some time soon.

Either way, here's hoping that Bachmanns Thomas range is capable of surviving this ordeal.

As I said in a post earlier, Thomas toys in general have suffered from poor quality and mediocre sales, so Adventures getting dropped doesn't entirely surprise me.  Though it is getting replaced with a new die cast range on Trackmaster track, which leads me to believe that Trackmaster is also getting dropped too to make room for the new range.

Despite what's going on with the franchise, I think Bachmann will be okay personally.  I think their HO and Large scale ranges will continue to be mostly stagnant with more recolors to join the range.  Narrow gauge will probably come out with one new tooling a year being either an engine or a new rolling stock tooling.  If Tomix isn't releasing to the US and Hornby gave up the UK rights to sell Thomas models, I'd argue that there is more going for Bachmann than not if they acquire said licenses from Japan and the UK.

Either way, with how bad the new season is turning out so far with a terrible movie following it and Mattel's terrible business and marketing decisions, it's definitely not a good time to be a Thomas fan. 

My 2019 predictions

HO Scale
Troublesome truck #6 (van)
Recolor/redesign of a previous locomotive

Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel or Peter Sam
Brake van

Quote from: Chaz on September 10, 2018, 04:42:41 PM
As I said in a post earlier, Thomas toys in general have suffered from poor quality and mediocre sales, so Adventures getting dropped doesn't entirely surprise me.  Though it is getting replaced with a new die cast range on Trackmaster track, which leads me to believe that Trackmaster is also getting dropped too to make room for the new range.

Despite what's going on with the franchise, I think Bachmann will be okay personally.  I think their HO and Large scale ranges will continue to be mostly stagnant with more recolors to join the range.  Narrow gauge will probably come out with one new tooling a year being either an engine or a new rolling stock tooling.  If Tomix isn't releasing to the US and Hornby gave up the UK rights to sell Thomas models, I'd argue that there is more going for Bachmann than not if they acquire said licenses from Japan and the UK.

Either way, with how bad the new season is turning out so far with a terrible movie following it and Mattel's terrible business and marketing decisions, it's definitely not a good time to be a Thomas fan. 

Now that actually sounds like that could be a good toyline! Almost like a ERTL/Trackmaster Hybrid. Hopefully someone working on this knows what they're doing. Hopefully Trackmaster doesn't get discontinued, but hopefully fixed.

The first time I heard about Thomas Wood getting cancelled, I believe it was just a rumor at the time, and the poster mentioned another rumor that went along with that one, where they were going to bring back Thomas Wooden Railway. It's nice to see that Thomas Wood is really going away, but does anyone know if maybe they really are bringing Thomas Wooden Railway back? That information would be appreciated.

And I've said it before, I am a comic book nerd as well, so I've also seen Mattel's action figure side of things. Over there, they're slowly improving, but they still have a long way to go. I don't know why they can't get their act together and have good quality improvements all around, but hopefully all this negative feedback (to put it lightly) gives them the swift kick in the pants they need to get their act together and start making the necessary and wanted changes.

I can't believe the wooden railway is getting cancelled. After 26 years I remember playing with them at the age of 6 at the mall.

I owed a few like Thomas, Henry, Percy, James but my interest was more into the ERTL models because they looked like the actual locomotives.

Just to let everyone know, that new range coming is only going to let have 8 items all together....

Quote from: TrainshockeylifE on September 10, 2018, 11:01:32 PM
Just to let everyone know, that new range coming is only going to let have 8 items all together....

And is unmotorized...

It's like Mattel is trying to kill off the brand.

How about something nice:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wesCEBy1TE

Also, check out Mike O'Donnell's rerecord of the song if you have not heard it yet:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCpHWeFV8IE

Quote from: Sparks on September 10, 2018, 02:49:49 PM
Nevermind new products for 2019, will Bachmann have a 2019 range at all?

I emailed Doug Blaine last night just to be sure, all is good with Bachmann including future plans for all three ranges.

Good to heard.
I wasn't worried about the Bachmann Thomas range. I believe it's extremely strong.

At least the Bachmann Thomas range is safe.

The fact that Mattel is axing more Thomas merchandise lines is proof they're admitting that they can't make good quality Thomas toys. Wood was such a flop, it died off in less than a year. Now, they're axing Adventures. The reason why Thomas toys have been having pitiful sales is because Mattel can't make good quality Thomas toys that are actually worth the price. Even the target audience (toddlers) hated Wood.

Bachmann has pretty much the only good Thomas merchandise left. Bachmann models are QUALITY over quantity, and take a lot of effort to make. They can't just make new models overnight. They actually have effort and quality, which is something the toy lines haven't had recently. I'm glad the Bachmann Thomas line is safe.

With how lackluster the recent special, and the current season have been, I'm concerned about the show getting cancelled. When Thomas and the Magic Railroad came, it was a box office bomb, then the show started to go downhill, with Sharon Miller taking over with the most horrible writing you can think of, until 2013 when Andrew Brenner became head writer, then Thomas was actually watchable again, while still having some serious flaws. The Great Race, in my opinion, was when the show started going back downhill, then Journey Beyond Sodor introduced "bouncing". Now, we have Edward and Henry controversially removed from the Steam Team in favor of Nia and Rebecca, shorter episodes, unnecessary fantasies, and no more third-person narrative. 8 episodes were cut from Season 21 because of these changes.

The recent results of a two day long Twitter poll:
(http://puu.sh/BtVnJ/7e09d7a032.png)
I'd say Stepney and Daisy seem about equally in demand, so either or I think would be a very strong choice for 2019.

Sir Handel and Peter Sam on the other hand, I feel like have equal opportunities and reasons to be the next OO9 engine made, though ThomasTankMerch's reveal of the Sir Handel prop I feel definitely put him in the publics favor. I'm sure now lots of people want their own models of Sir Handel!

I did the same for a modeling group on Facebook and the results I got were very different from yours.

Stepney and Peter Sam both had a solid lead in my HO and narrow gauge polls respectively.  I think both Stepney and Daisy for HO and Sir Handel and Peter Sam are both valid choices for each respective range.

(Not posting pictures since Facebook reveals pictures of people who voted).

The magical world of MS Paint will fix your problem
(http://puu.sh/BtYyS/762b8011f6.jpg)

I watched Thomas and the Magic Railroad in theaters in 2000. I was 14 at the time I was very excited to watch it. While watching the movie I was getting disappointed. I didn't like the voices, the engines moving around without their employees, no passengers. Alex Baldwin was okay but I wanted George Carlin since they bought back Didi Conn.
When season 5 started I started to lose interest. Alex was alright narrator but the stories were okay.

Impressive voting list on the Facebook.

All Mattel really did with this series revamp is fix what isn't broken.

Yeah. Also, does anybody think that Bachmann will do the recolours of Edward, Henry and James as shown in Big World! Big Adventures!?

No I don't think they would do that, especially since they're not named. They'd probably do the mainland diesels before they even tried that, mainly because I remember at least one being named. I can't remember any recolored former steam team members getting names, but maybe I'm wrong. As well, none of them would sell well because people don't really care about them and they wouldn't sell. Paxton exists because he has a character and a name.

I agree with HLC Railroad. The sales would just not be there, especially as it is something from Big World! Big Adventures!

Although I already made a post regarding what most fans would like to see in a nutshell for 2019 just a week ago, I thought that it would interesting to post different paths from a broader perspective that I could see Bachmann take for the HO engine, largely because of the unpopular announcement of Grumpy Diesel this year and the disappointment I and many others are feeling with the season 22 episodes.

Path A: Classic Characters
With two different polls showing that Stepney and Daisy are the most sought after, there's no doubt that they would have the strongest sales and truly wow fans.

Path B: Newer Characters
The only two newer characters that I could see Bachmann making with decent sales are Ryan and Stanley. Both consist of unique color schemes and designs. I would not mind seeing either one get made.

Path C: Existing Engine with Unique Facial Expression
If it really comes down to this, I could Bachmann announcing Thomas, Percy, or Toby with a new facial expression.

(http://i67.tinypic.com/2n0jatk.png)

The face that I would be interested in is a Tired Percy, but only if it matches the one from the model series as shown above.

The ultimate questions we always have to ask ourselves are:
1. Is there a high demand for the suggested product?
2. If so, would the cost of the new tooling of the suggested product be reasonable?

As long as the answers to those two questions are yes, then well... ;).

I feel like the boat has long since passed for Bachmann to invest in the novelty of change-able faces for Thomas engines. The newer CGI faces aren't nearly as expressive as the model era faces, and aren't as iconic of the stop motion/live action model train medium.

Course, I would like the idea of Bachmann experimenting with "Limited Run" models of characters and rolling stock that would be under a "Classic" or "Nostalgia" label, and deliberately be made to look like the model series content, or even freight cars from the Railway Series illustrations (such as Sodor China Clay and Ffarquhuar Quarry Company).

I would honestly bet on Bachmann sooner releasing Rosie in her red livery before doing another engine with a different facial expression.

Though if Bachmann wants to do a limited recolor done right I would vouch for a green Thomas and black James as shown in the Advenure Begins:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/f7/TheAdventureBegins82.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315081756)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/83/TheAdventureBegins345.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315084328)

Seeing as how they only appeared in one special, they would probably have to do a limited run in order for them to be profitable.  The good news though, if they do this, is that not only would these be recolors and therefore not expensive to make, but The Adventure Begins is popular with both the older and newer generation of Thomas fans, thus would make these all the more appealing.  Even I would buy them both!

Quote from: Sparks on September 15, 2018, 01:14:03 AM
I feel like the boat has long since passed for Bachmann to invest in the novelty of change-able faces for Thomas engines. The newer CGI faces aren't nearly as expressive as the model era faces, and aren't as iconic of the stop motion/live action model train medium.

Course, I would like the idea of Bachmann experimenting with "Limited Run" models of characters and rolling stock that would be under a "Classic" or "Nostalgia" label, and deliberately be made to look like the model series content, or even freight cars from the Railway Series illustrations (such as Sodor China Clay and Ffarquhuar Quarry Company).

Bachmann could do that anyway, considering they are doing random tanker recolors that have never been seen on the show.

Quote from: Sparks on September 15, 2018, 01:14:03 AM
I feel like the boat has long since passed for Bachmann to invest in the novelty of change-able faces for Thomas engines. The newer CGI faces aren't nearly as expressive as the model era faces, and aren't as iconic of the stop motion/live action model train medium.

Course, I would like the idea of Bachmann experimenting with "Limited Run" models of characters and rolling stock that would be under a "Classic" or "Nostalgia" label, and deliberately be made to look like the model series content, or even freight cars from the Railway Series illustrations (such as Sodor China Clay and Ffarquhuar Quarry Company).

I see your point, but what makes the model era faces more expensive to make? As for "Limited Run" models of classic products, that would be fascinating. Maybe a 2-car pack consisting of Thomas with his season 1 face and a season 1 troublesome truck would be doable.

Quote from: Chaz on September 15, 2018, 01:52:13 AM
I would honestly bet on Bachmann sooner releasing Rosie in her red livery before doing another engine with a different facial expression.

Though if Bachmann wants to do a limited recolor done right I would vouch for a green Thomas and black James as shown in the Advenure Begins:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/f7/TheAdventureBegins82.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315081756)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/83/TheAdventureBegins345.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315084328)

Seeing as how they only appeared in one special, they would probably have to do a limited run in order for them to be profitable.  The good news though, if they do this, is that not only would these be recolors and therefore not expensive to make, but The Adventure Begins is popular with both the older and newer generation of Thomas fans, thus would make these all the more appealing.  Even I would buy them both!

I've thought about a LBSC Thomas and Black James, but I feel like those would be better to announce for 2020, Thomas' 75th Anniversary, and a limited run would definitely make sense. This makes me wonder why Celebration Thomas was not a limited run.

Expressive, not expensive.

Shoot! I apologize for that little misread, but yes. I completely concur. The model faces have much more depth and shape from the cheekbones to the indentations around the eyes. With the Spiteful Brake Van having its season 2 face, you never know what Bachmann may have in mind.

I would love to have a black James. The adventure begins was a very good special.

As for the Classic line concept. I like the idea for non plated face trucks and lite to dark gray box vans, and mail vans. Maybe a plain silver tank car from season 1-5. It might been in more seasons but I don't know.

I thought about repaints a lot myself like a Red NWR Rosie, Black James, and LBSC Thomas, but I bit my tongue because I was afraid I might jynx it, and we'd get nothing but repainted engines in the range. I feel like if Bachmann -does- do repainted engines, they should at least accompany it with a -new- engine every so often. For example, we're already getting Paxton and Grumpy Diesel, so 2019 would be a terrible year to do more engine repaints, when the fans are craving a new engine like Stepney or Daisy. 2020 however, I feel would be a safer bet to do an engine repaint.

I even considered mentioning the Circus Train as a potential "repaint" idea that could easily work, even bringing back the Flat Bed With Paint Drums for it (but with a different load), but opted out because it might end up a bright red livery rather than the more popular grey livery. Course just by mentioning that I'm already tempting the Monkeys Paw...

Honestly, I think a red Rosie is inevitable, especially when a lot of people complained about the Rosie model not being red when she came out.  I would hope though, like the case of celebration Thomas and Oliver (both being announced in 2015), that if they do this, they at least announce a new engine alongside her. 

On the whole though, I agree that new engine tooling should take priority over recolors, especially over characters we already have.  Of course  if they can't afford a new tooling then maybe that would be the best they can do so I can't really blame them there.  The least they could do if that's the cause is release the repainted engine, (like Red Rosie), alongside the retired pieces of rolling stock fans would want back like the flat car with paint drums or maybe the red express coaches in HO, along with Peter Sam for narrow gauge and the red coaches in large scale.

Circus wagons would be fun, though I imagine if they were to do it, they would probably throw them in as an exclusive starter set with some decorated Thomas model and 3-4 pieces of exclusive repainted stock.

It would be neat if Bachmann considered doing freight car packs like Hornby used to do. We could get Season 1 Troublesome Trucks that way. Three in a pack, with each one having a different load, like one with a coal load, one with a quarry rock load, and one with a tarp covering something. Even do the blank wagons that way (plain silver tanker, plain black tanker, and older Season 1 box van designs).

New toolings like Stepney or Daisy should definitely have higher priority over recolors, but if a new tooling isn't in the budget, Red Rosie, LBSC Thomas, or Black James should get made. Any of those three recolors would sell better than Paxton and Sidney combined. The biggest problem with Sidney is that Bachmann would be doing a Class 08 three years in a row. He's not even as popular as Paxton.

Because many people complained about Rosie being made in her old lavender livery, we might get Red Rosie eventually.

If we get another engine recolor, it should definitely be possible to announce a new engine tooling alongside it, considering Oliver and Celebration Thomas were both announced the same year.

What about China Clay works truck load. Something for Bill and Ben transporting around the quarry or yard.

The Circus Train is another good idea for a repaint, but I feel that something celebratory like that should be announced in 2020 instead of 2019 along with the LBSC Thomas and Black James. To be honest, I would fine if those were the only HO Announcements in 2020 as long as Stepney or Daisy are announced next year along with rolling stock like the flat cars and Troublesome Truck #6. To me, doing it like this would make the most sense. A greater level of enchantment would be brought back to the range and there would only be one new tooling for the HO line in the next two years, so cost should not be a problem.

I think another HO Rolling Stock possibility is Hannah. Bachmann has her tooling.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on September 17, 2018, 06:11:19 PM
I think another HO Rolling Stock possibility is Hannah. Bachmann has her tooling.

Don't you mean Henrietta tooling. If they wanted to rerelease Henrietta with a name change like Hannah. They could but the coach doesn't have a face in which they would need to add one for Hannah.

I am going to put my predictions for next year here:

HO Scale

Stepney
Flat Car with Chinese Dragon
One of the 3 Large Scale Wagons yet to be released in HO Scale (Explosives Van, Toffee Tanker, Chocolate Syrup Tanker)
Troublesome Truck 6 (Hopefully a Tanker with a Model Series Face)

Narrow Gauge

Peter Sam

Large Scale

Red Coach
Red Brake Coach

Hey guys! I'm new to the Bachmann Forums and I wanted to put in what I think we'll see/want to see come Bachmann's 2019 Thomas announcements.

HO Scale:

Stepney-

Growing up I always liked Stepney. He had a unique color and he was in one of my favorite episodes growing up (Thomas and Stepney). I not entirely sold that he'll be announced but he's affordable, classic, and everyone wants him so I'll say he has a good chance. Although I'm not worried about him getting a CGI model before being released. Stepney is owned by the Bluebell Railway so they would want Stepney in CGI to be perfect. I think we don't have to worry about another Duncan incident.

Daisy-

"Mind my swerves!" If Daisy is announced, I would be so happy. Sure Stepney is classic, but Daisy is the last character from the classic series that deserves to be in the range (except for one but we'll get to him). She might have an issue with the eye mechanism as people have pointed out but I'm sure Bachmann could figure something out or better yet: don't include an eye mechanism at all. Honestly who cares about the moving eyes anymore. Large Scale Winston didn't have any.

Ryan-

A CGI character that a lot of people enjoy. He's a tank engine, he'd be the first purple engine in the range (unless Charlie is announced), and he would be perfect to release along side Daisy. Nuff said. ;)

Whiff-

This one is my oddball pick. I doubt it will be in the 2019 announcements if at all but... I just really like Whiff's design. He's a bigger size tank engine and he has glasses. Visually he'd be very unique. Before anyone brings up the Den and Dart argument, let me just say that Whiff was introduced before Scruff. So you could release Whiff without Scruff and it wouldn't be weird like Den without Dart.

Philip-

Oh geez. Getting into the controversial picks. I'm probably the only one here who likes Philip. He's just an endearing little guy to me. I can't explain why. He just is. And Mattel seems to like to push him as he's popular with the kids. He has the same eye problem that Daisy has and with Philip I have the same solution. Don't include the moving eyes. Philip would be the most inexpensive Bachmann model and the kids would eat him up.

Nia/Rebecca-

I don't think these two will be in the 2019 news (maybe Nia) but I just wanted to talk about them. I really like Nia and Rebecca as characters and I know a whole lot of other people do to. There the hot new main characters that Mattel is pushing and Bachmann are gonna have to make them eventually.

Red Rosie-

They just need too. Nuff said. If Grumpy Diesel can happen, then surely Red Rosie can.

Trevor-

This was the other classic character I mentioned in Daisy's section. We got Bertie, we got Harold, and we got Terence. Trevor is the last one to complete the non rail quartet.

Ace-

Idk maybe. Who knows. Car modelers might like him. ???

Chinese Dragon/Troublesome Truck 6/RS-

Chinese Dragon sounds like a great idea and it would tie into the BWBA theme. TT6 would be a welcome edition especially if it's a tanker with a face. Other than that, who knows?

...and finally Stanley-

Stanley was originally going to be my oddball pick but after thinking about it, he has a pretty good shot. He's a tank engine with a unique color scheme, he has a lot of popularity in the fandom thanks to Welcome Stanley and Stanley in Space, and they made Rosie... back when she was still a background engine. Stanley is my favorite character in the whole franchise (just above Stephen and Toby). If he got in, I'd be over the moon (get it?  ;) ;D)

And that's it for HO scale, this post is getting pretty long so I'll have to save NG and Large Scale for Part 2. Thanks for reading and I hope you like my ideas.

While thinking about diesel yesterday. Deciding on getting Grumpy Diesel and if don't like him I'll get the normal diesel. Since my family told me to get two since he has two different faces and couldn't decide.
Remembering that new Thomas episode The Case of the Puzzling Parts Bachmann might go with the route of repainting class 08 into Sidney. That way all the class 08 will be done Not to worry about working on another diesel.

Quote from: angelob6660 on September 26, 2018, 12:28:57 PM
Remembering that new Thomas episode The Case of the Puzzling Parts Bachmann might go with the route of repainting class 08 into Sidney. That way all the class 08 will be done Not to worry about working on another diesel.

I didn't mention Sidney in my HO Scale list because everyone's talked about him to death. I wouldn't be mad if Sidney was made. Missing Christmas Decorations, Sidney Sings, and Case of the Puzzling Parts were all decent episodes (albeit a little bland for my tastes) so his inclusion would be welcome. I just hope they will wait on him a little bit or at the very least release him along side a new design engine. It would be weird to release another Class 40 after getting two this year.

How about Bachmann just make Stepney or Daisy so that classic fans can be happy after several years of newer engines? Nobodys screaming or raving for Sidney, Nia, Rebecca or Stanley. Heck, nobodys even screaming for Red Rosie, Black James or LBSC Thomas either. People only are mentioning those because they expect Bachmann to make those, not necessarily want them. The recent polls from multiple websites such as Facebook and Twitter show that Stepney, Daisy, Sir Handel, and Peter Sam are the hot picks among the fans.

I feel like at this point, other engines shouldn't even be considered or focused upon for the time being. The surveys have already filtered out the top choices.

Well I was mainly saying that these would be the engines that I want to see, not just predict. I know for sure that people want the characters that I mentioned. Daisy and Stepney do seem like the most likely as far as the forum is concerned. But so many people want other characters, too. Merlin, Ryan, Arthur, Hiro, Harvey, Stephen, Trevor. Heck, so many people on Twitter want Diesel 10 even though we all know he's not gonna happen anytime soon. (PS I'm raving for Stanley  :'()

What I'm saying is I'm mainly giving out ideas of what Bachmann could do in 2019 and beyond. It's just speculation and it's not something we should take too serious. Maybe that's just me.

People in the forum, which character would you want, regardless of relevancy or other limitations?

I would want Stepney. He's been one of my favorite characters ever since I was a kid (and I wasn't even born when Thomas & the Magic Railroad came out).

Stepney so that he gets made with the model design ASAP, rather than at some point the CGI show makes a weird, inaccurate render of him and then Bachmann will have to use that render for a reference.

Quote from: Streak on September 25, 2018, 10:18:26 PM
Stepney is owned by the Bluebell Railway so they would want Stepney in CGI to be perfect. I think we don't have to worry about another Duncan incident.

I personally have faith that they could make Stepney look good in CGI. Then again I see the appeal of getting an engine in his classic design. Like with Duck back in 2013

For HO, I would want Stepney for sure, especially since he hasn't been in CG yet and would pull off a nice last "hurrah" for those who like classic designs.  

For narrow gauge, Peter Sam.  He's got the best CG render out of all the narrow gauge engines and his basis is extremely popular and the model would have a lot of different conversions coming its way.

They are both in my top five favorite characters too.

If I wanted a more realistic/perfect Stepney, I'd just buy the new Dapol A1 that's coming out that's being commissioned by the NRM and Rails of Sheffield.

The model series design is what's nostalgic to me, and is the era/style of merchandise I put my pocketbook into. Anything short of that is gonna lose my interest fairly quickly, and any CGI design is going to try and be some weird "hybrid" of the classic series and actual locomotive prototype as they tried with Duck, Oliver, Donald, Douglas, etc. and even when the CGI animators stick closer to the original design, they miss certain details and proportions by a margin (Bulgy, the new Trevor model).

Basically, I don't -want- some new design for Stepney. I want a model of the character I grew up with and have nostalgia for.

If Bachmann ever states that they would only make one more HO Engine for the Thomas line, Stepney is the one that I would pick. He has an extremely strong fan base, likeable persona, nostalgic design, and would blend in wonderfully with the rest of the range, even with the two engines who were introduced in the newer series: Rosie and Paxton. This is because Stepney appeared in one of the only episodes that Rosie had a leading role: Rosie's Carnival Special, and Paxton could be used as one of the scrap diesels from Rusty to the Rescue.

Please Bachmann! Make Stepney! I will literally cry out of joy if he is announced next year.

Quote from: Sparks on September 26, 2018, 04:44:04 PM
Basically, I don't -want- some new design for Stepney. I want a model of the character I grew up with and have nostalgia for.

I completely understand. I grew up with that version of Stepney, too. Thomas and Stepney, Stepney Gets Lost, and Bowled Out were some of my favorite episodes about him. I guess personally I'm just intrigued to see what they would do with Stepney in CGI. I actually really like the CGI designs in the new show even more than the old models. Some are a little off but most are pretty good and I guess I'd rather be accurate to the current show. Thinking about it though, having Stepney as a last hurrah for the models like Chaz said would be pretty cool. I'd be down with that. I'm sorry if I came off as dissing your opinion. I was just trying to have friendly discussion.

On an unrelated topic, the weakest CGI models (Oliver, Duncan, and Bulgy) have been completely absent this season just like Rosie was in Season 20 right before making her red. Do any of y'all think they might be fixing their models. They definitely need to.

I certainly hope that Oliver, Duncan, and Bulgy are getting redone. I would love a Bachmann Duncan and Bulgy, but only if their CGI renders are fixed first.

Going back to Stepney though, one final point that I would like to make as to why I think that Stepney should be announced next year is that he would most likely get released in 2020, which is Thomas' 75th Anniversary, given that it usually takes a year and a half to make an HO loco.

Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on September 26, 2018, 06:10:19 PM
I certainly hope that Oliver, Duncan, and Bulgy are getting redone. I would love a Bachmann Duncan and Bulgy, but only if their CGI renders are fixed first.

Going back to Stepney though, one final point that I would like to make as to why I think that Stepney should be announced next year is that he would most likely get released in 2020, which is Thomas' 75th Anniversary, given that it usually takes a year and a half to make an HO loco.

Interesting point... never thought of that! It would be really cool if for the 2019 announcements they announced Stepney and/or Daisy (preferably both) and then they would come out in 2020 just in time for the 75th anniversary. Then they could have the 2020 announcements be LBSC Thomas, Black James, Trevor, or maybe even a Railway Series version Thomas. That would be a great way to celebrate. (Much better than Celebration Thomas from 2015. Seriously why is that thing still available?)

That's exactly what I had in mind. If Stepney and/or Daisy are announced next year, then I would be absolutely fine with an LBSC Thomas and Black James for 2020, since the cost for new toolings has gone up immensely.

On a different note, I'm curious to know if you have any resin building ideas/thoughts? In fact, I started a separate thread months ago just for that specific area of the Thomas line:
https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34707.0.html
I would love to see what you have in mind regarding that.

Oh :o Thank you! I'm not used to someone asking me for my opinions on Thomas stuff.
I'll definitely comment in that thread soon. I just need to get all of my ideas for that in order.

I'm curious. What did you think of my other HO scale ideas and what character (other than Stepney and Daisy) would you like made in Bachmann, regardless of limitations keeping them from being in?

You're welcome! Although I may not have the same viewpoint as you regarding BWBA and Season 22, I definitely enjoy reading your posts. You come up with many good points, which is why I would love to see what you think in regards to resin buildings.

Regarding your HO ideas, I concur with everything that you suggested, but I am personally not a fan of Phillip, Nia, and Rebecca. And even though I would still like to see Stepney or Daisy announced next, other engines I would love to see in the future are Stanley, Boco, and Arthur (if Boco and Arthur return to the show).

Lastly, I would love it if Bachmann made Trevor. His tooling would be complicated to make, but as you said, he would complete the four original nonrail characters in the Bachmann line.

Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on September 26, 2018, 07:42:41 PM
You're welcome! Although I may not have the same viewpoint as you regarding BWBA and Season 22, I definitely enjoy reading your posts. You come up with many good points, which is why I would love to see what you think in regards to resin buildings.

Regarding your HO ideas, I concur with everything that you suggested, but I am personally not a fan of Phillip, Nia, and Rebecca. And even though I would still like to see Stepney or Daisy announced next, other engines I would love to see in the future are Stanley, Boco, and Arthur (if Boco and Arthur return to the show).

Lastly, I would love it if Bachmann made Trevor. His tooling would be complicated to make, but as you said, he would complete the four original nonrail characters in the Bachmann line.

Thank you so much. In this day and age, it's refreshing to see that even though two people on the internet have different opinions (i.e. our viewpoints on the show), they can still respect each others opinion and can get along. I'm glad you liked most of my ideas and I'll surely list down my ideas for the resin buildings thread. Again, thank you so much.

(P.S. I would like BoCo and Arthur in Bachmann as well. Harvey too, if they could find a way to make him work)

I agree. I'd just want a bachmann Stepney based on the model series before he gets rendered in CGI.

Yeah it would be cool if Stepney was made in his classic look. Especially since his design in Season 4 was already pretty realistic. I doubt characters like Arthur and Murdoch will be made even though Murdoch was made by Hornby (if they were put in CGI they'd have more of a chance.) I don't see Harvey being made as I have no idea how his crane would work, with or without moving eyes (still really want him though). Diesel 10 has little to no chance. The only classic character I see left is BoCo but even then Daisy would get made before him and he'll probably get put in CGI eventually anyways. So Stepney really is the only "last ditch effort" classic design possible.

Also follow up to yesterday, "Counting on Nia" came out today and in the opening they showed Duncan at Crovan's Gate. That could mean that they aren't fixing his model. Rats. They still might fix Oliver and Bulgy's though.

I don't know anyone who'd rave for Bachmann to make Nia, Rebecca, or Philip. The vast majority, including myself, dread the idea.

Same for me. I wonder what logo they would use if they brought the tar tanker wagons into CGI. What do you think Streak?

Quote from: TrainFan97 on September 27, 2018, 06:29:30 PM
I don't know anyone who'd rave for Bachmann to make Nia, Rebecca, or Philip. The vast majority, including myself, dread the idea.

There are people outside of these forums who like Bachmann and who like those characters. Just because you don't see these people doesn't mean they don't exist. Personally, if I think a character's design is good (regardless of their personality), I would be fine with them getting Bachmann models as long as the ones that I want/think deserve models get made as well. I'd be down with Bachmann Norman, Hugo, Charlie, Ferdinand, or even Bachmann Timothy (Timothy is my least favorite character in the franchise tbh). As long as we got Daisy, Stepney, Stanley, Ryan, and so on.

Quote from: JLK2707 on September 27, 2018, 06:46:22 PM
Same for me. I wonder what logo they would use if they brought the tar tanker wagons into CGI. What do you think Streak?

Not sure. The Tar Wagons have mostly been synonymous with the road so maybe something like a paved street in a circle. I've thought about this before in the past but I can't remember what I came up with at the moment.

So I've already said what I wanted for the Bachmann HO Scale range so I think it's time for PART 2!!!
It's Narrow Gauge Time!!  :D

Peter Sam-

Going by everyone on the forums, it seems like the most wanted narrow gauge engine is Peter Sam and I can't blame ya'll. Peter Sam isn't my favorite narrow gauge engine but I do really like him. Having him in Bachmann along side Skarloey, Rheneas, and Rusty would be glorious. His CGI model is just perfection. The rivets, the face, the buffer beam! Everything is just flat out amazing with his model. I don't even mind his "Thomas-esq" whistle as I think it sets him apart from the other engines. In the end, he's the most likely and the most wanted engine for this range. I would be shocked if we didn't get him next year.

Sir Handel-

While I'm totally down with Peter Sam being made and I'm pretty sure he'll be announced next, I think I would want Sir Handel in the range a little bit more. I like his dark blue paintwork (since no engine, standard or narrow, has a shade of blue like that) and overall I have more of an attachment to Sir Handel because of nostalgia. Steamroller and A Smooth Ride were some of my favorite episodes growing up so I'd love to see Sir Handel get in. Plus, his CGI model is very good. The only thing that puts him below Peter Sam is a) his popularity on the forum and b) his real life basis, Sir Hayden, being MIA currently, leaving Bachmann with no blueprints to model off of. (I think that's how that works...)

Victor/Luke/Millie-

Like most people on this forum, I want them to make (most of) the original NG six before they do anything with the recent CGI series only NG engines but that doesn't mean I wouldn't want them made eventually. Victor is such an important character in the current series, arguably the most important NG engine currently. He runs the Steamworks with Kevin, has a cool basis, and is just a good character all around. Some argue they would have to make the Steamworks for there to be any chance for Victor. I seriously doubt that. Victor has been seen outside the Steamworks before (i.e. Don't Bother Victor and Snow Place Like Home) so I see him working without one. I do think they would need to make a HO scale Kevin to go with him which I wouldn't mind (as long as they made Trevor first)

Luke is the only one of these engines I could possibly see getting before Sir Handel and Peter Sam. He has squeezed his way into the main NG click and his basis is amazing. Even though he's not used as much in the show nowadays, I still like Luke and his debut movie: Blue Mountain Mystery. Plus, Mattel thinks he's marketable, seeing as they gave him his own Adventures play-set and his own Trackmaster RC engine. I would be totally fine with Luke being made.

Millie is the odd one out. She would be a great pick, seeing as she's the only female NG engine and she has a unique color scheme and personality. However, she suffers the same problem that Victor has where she's part of a group of characters that you would need to also make for her inclusion to make sense. But the difference between Victor and Millie is that I can see Bachmann making a Kevin, it's much harder seeing them make Stephen and Glynn. Not only would they be the smallest HO scale engines (smaller than even Philip), they would also be very complex to make. Stephen is very popular and I have no doubt that Bachmann would try their best on both, but I can't help feeling that they'd be a stretch. Millie is almost always seen with Stephen and Glynn, so having her without the others would just be weird.

Duke/Freddie/MightyMac-

Just thought I'd bring these guys up. These guys having the longest of long shots as they're not even in the current series. MightyMac... just no. He would look cool and I'm sure Bachmann could pull it off but who here gives a care bout these two? Anyone? Thought so.

Duke and Freddie are the two I see having a chance albeit slim. Duke is an extremely popular classic character who I have no doubt would sell so much money and Freddie is a marketable character (seeing as he has a Trackmaster model despite not being in the CGI series) with a unique color scheme and a cool basis. I doubt these two would be made anytime soon but it's just a thought.

Duncan-

Duncan, Duncan, Duncan... :-\ What can I say that hasn't been said already. His CGI model is hot garbage. Despite being my favorite NG gauge character, I would not want him made if they were going to base him off his CGI model. And seeing Rusty, I doubt they would base him off of his real life counterpart, Douglas. I honestly would rather see any of the engines listed above over CGI Duncan. (That's pretty bad when MightyMac would be better than CGI Duncan). Hopefully, despite being in "Counting on Nia", they still might remodel Duncan next season. Seeing as they gave Skarloey a head lamp, they might change him up as well.

https://www.deviantart.com/the-arc-minister/art/The-Evolution-of-Duncan-662218707 (https://www.deviantart.com/the-arc-minister/art/The-Evolution-of-Duncan-662218707)

If Duncan was to be remodeled, I hope it would be something like TheArcMinister's photoshop (particularly the middle one).

So that's it for engines, quickly I'll go through rolling stock for the NG line.

Narrow Gauge Brake Van-

Must have. If they only released a blue brake van, red brake van, and brown brake van next year for rolling stock, I would be happy.

Narrow Gauge Box Vans-

Now they're already vans in the Narrow Gauge range and while they're ok, I think some brown ones would be welcome.

Troublesome Slate Truck-

In Journey Beyond Sodor, slate trucks with faces were animated for the film. However they were modeled in standard gauge instead of narrow gauge. When Big World Big Adventures was coming out, those same slate trucks were seen in the promotional footage but were cut from the final film. Seeing as they didn't show up in Season 22 either leads me to believe that Jam Filled may be remodeling them for the narrow gauge railway, making them perfect for the NG range.

Green NG Coaches-

In Counting on Nia, there were newly modeled green narrow gauge coaches visible for a split second (You can tell they're newly modeled since they and Skarloey were the same height). I doubt they would make them next year, just throwing it out there that they exist.

Any of the Railway Series coaches-

Going by the Blue NG Box Van, Bachmann are down for making Railway Series designs in this range. So I could see Ada, Jane, Mabel, or even Cora being made. The other coaches are less likely considering the blue and red coaches that were announced this year.

Refreshment Lady's Stand Coach (S7)-

This would be cool to release alongside Peter Sam tbh. Would reference one of my favorite Season 7 episodes.

So that's all the suggestions I have for the Bachmann NG range. I'll save Large Scale for a Part 3. But before I end this post, let me leave off with a question for all of you. The narrow gauge range has less characters they could make than the HO Scale line. Hypothetically, if they made all of the unique engines (basically all the engines listed above), would you be upset if they moved on to recolor characters/alternate versions of characters. Just to name a few examples, they could make Proteus, Smudger, Bertram, Stuart and Falcon, Yellow Rheneas, and Yellow Victor. Would you be cool with any of these after all the unique engines were made or would you just want them to stop there? Anyways thanks for reading. Post your thoughts down below. Peace.

It's always nice seeing somebody take the time to go through the remaining choices of the narrow gauge range in depth.

As I'm sure many others would agree, I think Peter Sam and Sir Handel should be considered before any of the other narrow gauge engines.  If one of them gets announced next year, then the demand for the other would skyrocket.  Personally I really think Peter Sam should be announced before Sir Handel and Sir Handel should get announced the following year.

I think after seeing the picture of Rusty, I think everybody can agree that Duncan should be skipped entirely, because of his poor render. If they ever upgrade the render, then I would be more than happy to see him. But despite being an original character, I think he should be skipped for now and Peter Sam and Sir Handel should be made before Duncan ever gets considered.

Definitely agree with you on the stance of the new were narrow gauge characters. I agree that Luke is the most probable out of the three, and Millie and Victor would stick out in the range like sore thumbs if they were ever announced.  Seeing as how long it took Bachmann to make newer engines like Rosie and Paxton, compared to all the classic characters, I could see the same with narrow gauge and saving them until they do Sir Handel and Peter Sam first (and maybe Duncan if we are lucky enough to get an upgraded render).

Brake vans for the narrow gauge range I think are inevitable, but I don't see them going for anymore different coaches after they releases the red and blue ones that are due this year.  I could see them going for slate trucks with faces if they are on a tight budget for the range, though I would prefer seeing the faces shown in season 4 over the CGI ones.

Recolored narrow gauge engines would seem futile when enough people are doing conversions with the Skarloey range as it is.  Going by the track record of the narrow gauge range so far though, I don't think Bachmann will go that route with them.

It is pretty obvious that Daisy and Stepney or the most wanted for standard gauge in the forum.  While it seems that there is a greater preference for Stepney, I felt like taking the time to say why I would rather see Daisy released: there is no good way to represent her in HO/OO unless one is able to scratch-build the loco body.  Daisy is not true to her basis in that the class 101 DMUs were multi-car units.  So if one was to buy a class 101 and overhaul it as Daisy, the back would be wrong because of it having a corridor instead of having a back the same shape as the front.  There are single car DMUs, but those don't look much like Daisy and would have the same issue as a model such as the Hornby Edward.

One has the option of attempting an "operation" on a class 101 set by cutting the two bodies in half and gluing the fronts together (I believe that is how Awdry made his Daisy), but there is a lot of room for that to not work out well.  If the cut is not perfect then one would be out the cost of a rather expensive model with nothing to show for it.

If, for whatever reason, Bachmann decided that Stepney would never be made, there are still models of Stepney's basis available.  While that is not ideal, the diehard Stepney fan would still have a solid starting point for modeling the character.  Daisy, on the other hand, is, in her own way, the first freelance locomotive design in Thomas (sorry Lady fans).  So I find it more important for Daisy to released in a Thomas merchandise line.

As far as what I would want to see in the model, I believe I may be in a minority of the fanbase in that I prefer her model design.  The CGI render appears overly tall and too short, making it look somewhat chunky (like a Wooden Railway model).  I know the reality is that it would probably be based on the CGI render, but I would hope for at least some influence from the model series when it came to scaling.

Personally I'm torn.

I like Stepney. He's the main character in some of my favorite classic series eps, he has a unique color scheme, and he's based on a real engine from a real railway. He would fit in with the other characters in the range (Thomas, Edward, Duck, Arry, Bert, Rusty, and even Rosie) and he'd be easy to make considering he's a small tank engine. Also he'd be modeled after his classic series design which would be cool. I definitely want fans of him to get what they wish for as well. However...

I would love to see Daisy. Stepney's a good character but he's not a favorite of mine. Daisy's the only female character I would say is in my top 10 favorite characters (Rebecca's close). Daisy has such a personality. She's the last classic character that I would say deserves to be made in Bachmann other than Trevor. I'm not saying Stepney shouldn't be made in Bachmann, just that going by personality, revelancy, and number of appearances, Daisy just has higher priority. Her CGI model is almost flawless. Personally, I think her preportions are spot on and I wouldn't mind Bachmann to base her off this current design (bonus points if they include her S21 onward cab interior). It would also be her first piece of merchandise in years. At least Stepney got a Take N Play in 2014, Daisy hasn't gotten squat. It would also be refreshing to see a bigger longer engine in Bachmann after so long. Also, if Bachmann does make her and doesn't include the eye mechanism (a point I made in an previous post), that would open the door for so many possible characters for Bachmann to make who would be too small and/or complicated to have moving eyes.

Then again, people want Stepney asap since they're worried that he'll be put in CGI before they can get classic Stepney in Bachmann. Daisy could always be made in 2020 or further while Stepney isn't as lucky. I could definitely see Stepney coming back soon due to the whole internationalangle the show is going for, so he doesn't have much time left to be made classic. (If his CGI model was good, I wouldn't mind it over a classic version but that's just me.) I know that so many people don't want that to happen.
It's a hard line to draw.

So for now, I'm just going to hope that both Stepney and Daisy are announced in 2019 so that everyone can get what they want. But in the end, we're not Bachmann and we don't make the decisions. If Bachmann turns around and announces Neville from Season 9, then there's nothing we can do. Boom. It's done. C'est la vie. Whoever Bachmann announces, I'm sure they'll have a good reason for their inclusion.

So that's the end of my ramble. On the topic of Stepney, many peoples argument for him is that he was made by Hornby. That got me thinking. What character that Hornby has made (other than Stepney) would you like to see Bachmann make? Here's the list: Murdoch, Dart, Flying Scotsman, D261, Bear, and Old Slow Coach. Comment down below your pick and also post who you would want more: Daisy or Stepney? That's all from me. Peace.

I'd be lying if I told you that I ever wanted Bachmann to make any of the characters that are exclusive to Hornby, besides Stepney.

If I absolutely HAD to pick one of them it would probably be Murdoch, (since Scotsman's CG render would be a deal breaker for me) since his Hornby model is incredibly hard to come by and probably the most expensive Thomas model out there period.  However, his price, being a large engine, would rule him completely.  Though, I would personally be a lot happier with a model of Arthur, and I could see him happening before Murdoch if Bachmann decides to make other characters who haven't been given the CGI treatment yet like Stepney.

Dart would be the only engine Hornby already did that Bachman would probably go for (besides Stepney), but both him and Den don't really strike me as popular enough to warrant Bachmann models of them.

Considering that yesterday was the 15th anniversary of Season 7, your choice of Murdoch is actually quite fitting. I'd really like Bachmann to make Murdoch just for design alone. He would look amazing. However I will admit, he is the least interesting out of the three S7 newbies left to be made. I'd much rather have Arthur (my favorite S7 character) or even Fergus before Murdoch if we're going persona wise.

Old Slow Coach wouldn't be hard to do. She would be a new mold but rolling stock molds are less expensive than new engine molds. Plus Bachmann has shown with Spiteful Brakevan that they're still allowed to make classic series characters.

D261, probably not. He did get a Take N Play model in 2014 but I doubt he'd get in the line before BoCo or even Derek. And I don't see him coming back in CGI anytime soon, despite his repeated usage in the Thomas Creator Collective.

You are right about Dart. They would also have to make Den for it to work. Den and Dart are popular but not enough to have priority over other CGI characters. Doesn't mean I wouldn't want them.
They were great in "Den and Dart" and "Springtime for Diesel".

I would love to see Bear. He'd be the only railway series character (besides Fred Pelhay and Rickety) I could see getting in. Especially if he was put in CGI. They haven't put any railway series characters in CGI since the Arlesdale Engines but I do think an adaptation of Super Rescue is possible with CGI versions of Bear and even D199.

Honestly, Flying Scotsman is the one out of that list that I think is most likely. He's in CGI and is prominent in said CGI. He's the brother of one of the main characters and he is based on one of the most famous engines of all time. Sure he would be big with two tenders, but being so famous, I could see Bachmann shelling out the extra bills for him. I'll actually disagree with you Chaz and say that I actually like Flying Scotsman's render. It's not my favorite but I wouldn't say I'm bothered by it. I just hope that if Bachmann does make him, they'll give him the accurate eight wheeled tenders instead of the inaccurate six wheeled tenders he has in the show. If they did that, I'd be a-OK with CGI Scotty.  ;)

So that's my thoughts on the Hornby engines. I did kind of break my own discussion chain by answering my own question, but I still want to keep this going. What character from Hornby do you want Bachmann to make sometime down the line?

I can't really see Bachmann putting the resources into releasing the sorts of minor characters that Hornby released because Hornby's approach to its Thomas range was to release an existing tooling with an altered livery and a face added.  I'm no expert in the range, but I believe the only unique toolings were for Percy and Toby.  A character like Dart could be released in the Hornby range because the company doesn't need to put many resources into it, and whatever the sales the model brings were pretty much just bonus on top of the investment for the original tooling.

Meanwhile, the only reused engine toolings in Bachmann's range (not counting twin engines) are 'Arry, Bert, and Paxton.  And those characters pretty much only exist in Bachmann's range because of initial demand for Diesel.  If Diesel never existed, then I can't see Bachmann making the investment to produce any of the other three.

I would buy a model of Bear, but I don't think that one will ever be made.  Bachmann does not currently produce a model of a Class 35, and there are several other large diesel engines who would be made first because they have wider appeal.

Just a bit of trivia, but it is curious that Hornby released the likes of Bear and Class 40 and not BoCo.  Hornby once produced a Class 28 model that was a dead-ringer for BoCo's RWS appearence down to having the same number.

Quote from: J70Toby on October 08, 2018, 04:01:36 PM
I can't really see Bachmann putting the resources into releasing the sorts of minor characters that Hornby released because Hornby's approach to its Thomas range was to release an existing tooling with an altered livery and a face added.  I'm no expert in the range, but I believe the only unique toolings were for Percy and Toby.  A character like Dart could be released in the Hornby range because the company doesn't need to put many resources into it, and whatever the sales the model brings were pretty much just bonus on top of the investment for the original tooling.

Meanwhile, the only reused engine toolings in Bachmann's range (not counting twin engines) are 'Arry, Bert, and Paxton.  And those characters pretty much only exist in Bachmann's range because of initial demand for Diesel.  If Diesel never existed, then I can't see Bachmann making the investment to produce any of the other three.

I can see where you're coming from. It would be highly unlikely for Bachmann to make Murdoch, D261, and Bear in this moment in time. Flying Scotsman and Dart are at least in the current series and Old Slow Coach might have a slight chance seeing as she's rolling stock.

Quote from: J70Toby on October 08, 2018, 04:01:36 PM
I would buy a model of Bear, but I don't think that one will ever be made.  Bachmann does not currently produce a model of a Class 35, and there are several other large diesel engines who would be made first because they have wider appeal.

Just a bit of trivia, but it is curious that Hornby released the likes of Bear and Class 40 and not BoCo.  Hornby once produced a Class 28 model that was a dead-ringer for BoCo's RWS appearence down to having the same number.

I do think Bear would get a higher chance if he ever got brought into the CGI series. He'd be relevant and would be great for retro fans. I would say BoCo and Daisy should get in before him though.

Speaking of BoCo, that little tidbit about Hornby having the perfect model is interesting. I hope I'm not stepping on any toes in saying this but honestly I just found Hornby's Thomas range rather lazy and quite unappealing. They did have some good models like Oliver, Murdoch, Stepney, and Bear, but most of the others were just... egh. The colors were off (Thomas), the scaling was inaccurate (Toby and Dart), the entire design would sometimes be completely wrong (Edward and Emily), and they were missing so many characters (seriously no Donald, Douglas, or Mavis). I do like the concept of having realistic (maybe even Railway Series) versions of the characters, but the way Hornby did it was lazy and uninspired. Despite Bachmann's faults, I can say without a doubt that they are superior to Hornby when it comes to making Thomas.

Quote from: Streak on October 08, 2018, 12:25:16 AM
So that's the end of my ramble. On the topic of Stepney, many peoples argument for him is that he was made by Hornby. That got me thinking. What character that Hornby has made (other than Stepney) would you like to see Bachmann make? Here's the list: Murdoch, Dart, Flying Scotsman, D261, Bear, and Old Slow Coach. Comment down below your pick and also post who you would want more: Daisy or Stepney? That's all from me. Peace.

I would prefer Stepney slightly more, but would be happy with Daisy too. As long as one of the two or a new set of resin buildings gets announced, I'm happy  :).

Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on October 09, 2018, 03:23:46 PM
I would prefer Stepney slightly more, but would be happy with Daisy too. As long as one of the two or a new set of resin buildings gets announced, I'm happy  :).

True true. Either Stepney or Daisy would be good picks for next year's engine. If I were Bachmann, I would announce Stepney in 2019, announce Daisy (+ Recolors) in 2020 for the 75th and then Ryan to go with Daisy in 2021. (Then I'd announce Stanley  ;))

But if Daisy was announced next year instead of Stepney, I wouldn't complain. Either one would be great. Since I'm new to these boards, I thought I should ask this. Does the Bachmann team actually read these forums and take our wants and ideas into consideration? If that's how it works, than Stepney and Daisy definitely have a good shot next year. ;D

As to this question of who I'd want despite limitations or such, I'd obviously want Daisy and/or Stepney for Standard Gauge and Peter Sam and/or Sir Handel for Narrow Gauge. But I'd like to throw some odd ball answers in there, since we're ignoring any limitations and such:

Standard Gauge:
Boco. He's a classic, if Bachmann were to just say "Heck with it, we're making Boco", then he'd 100% be classic model series based, and I wouldn't have to make one myself if they release him.  :D

The Flying Scotsman. I feel like he's such a popular character in general, and in real life, that he'd sell pretty dang well. I'm not too worried about whether he's Railway Series accurate or CGI Series accurate. I would mention the Model Series, but that would just be his tenders. Actually, I probably wouldn't want them to base anything off of his tender's Model Series appearance, as they messed up and accidentally gave him two coal tenders. I know the look he has in the show currently isn't accurate to any particular look The Flying Scotsman has had, all because of him having both double tenders and smoke deflectors at once, but i think he still looks pretty good in the CGI Series.

Narrow Gauge:
Smudger. He's a simple recolor of Rheneas, and I'd like to have a Smudger doing odd jobs around a layout, if I had one. Also, my favorite color is green, so that helps. :D

Fearless Freddie. He's got an interesting looking basis, might be used by non-Thomas collectors and modellers to modify into his basis, and he'd just look great running around a layout pulling extra trains, or even used as a shunter around a yard or perhaps another Sodor location (perhaps that Wharf from the late Model Series that has both Standard Gauge and Narrow Gauge tracks).

I haven't commented in almost a year. Here's what I want to see in 2019.

HO Scale:

BoCo: definitely a long shot but I just thought I'd put him out there. BoCo is one of my personal favorites. I would love to see BoCo in HO scale because of his size and ability to pull heavy goods trains.

Flying Scotsman: a bit of a long shot but I think he'd be a good character. Yeah his tv series counterpart may not be accurate but I think he'd sell very well and Bachmann would make tons of profit off of this model.

James' express coach and brake coach: highly likely we will see these come out next year if these are announced I will not be suprised.

Troublesome Truck #6: same as above very likely to be announced.

Narrow Gauge:

Sir Handle: my friend Jack goes on and on about Sir Handle not being made. I really hope we get Sir Handle just because he's a popular character and he along with Peter Sam are in high demand.


Well that's my list hope I get a response.

Good lists you two. Really good choices. BoCo, while a long shot, would be pretty cool in Bachmann. While I'm not a big fan of BoCo as a character (I've warmed up to him overtime), a model of him would look very nice and he is one of the few OG classic characters yet to get in. Although I think Daisy and Stepney have a better chance in 2019, BoCo would be cool further down the line. Especially if he gets into CGI sometime soon.

Flying Scotsman would be a great model for Bachmann to make. I know many people don't like Scotsman's CGI design but I like the fact that it's a combination of both his major designs. That's why he's got smoke deflectors AND two tenders at the same time.While historically inaccurate, it's a-OK in my book. The only hurdle I see is that Flying Scotsman is so big and long. With two tenders he might be more expensive than a possible Bachmann Daisy, BoCo, Hiro, or Rebecca. He is relevant enough to warrant the expense but it's a tough call to make.

James' Express Coaches would be good to see come back as well as getting a Troublesome Truck 6. Although I have to ask... What do you want T. Truck 6 to be? A tanker? A goods van?

Smudger and Freddie are strange choices indeed but they would be cool. Freddie would have a unique color and basis. Since I doubt Bachmann would ever make Ivo Hugh for the HOn30 range, Freddie is top candidate for Skarloey Railway's #7. (I'd actually like to see Freddie come back in CGI some day, not before Duke of course). I find it funny that Rheneas has two possible recolors they could do for him: Smudger and Yellow Rheneas. Smudger would be much better though. I have a feeling that if the HOn30 range ever gets to the point where they've run out of characters with original basis to do, they would do recolor characters like Smudger, Bertram, and Proteus.

Finally, Sir Handel. According to this board, Sir Handel and Peter Sam are the most wanted and most likely narrow gauge engines. However, with Sir Haydn being overhauled and his blueprints unavailable, Peter Sam is the more likely of the two. I would really Sir Handel to be made though.

Would anyone want Bachmann to release separate HOn30 couplings as an accessory? I have heard that the Peco wagons have more of an uncoupling problem than the Bachmann wagons, and, looking at the couplings, the pin that the loop goes around is more pronounced on the Bachmann couplings than the Peco couplings. I was thinking that that might be why, and, since all of the rolling stock released so far has NEM couplings, people would be able to replace the Peco couplings with the Bachmann ones. What do you guys think?

Quote from: Streak on October 12, 2018, 10:20:50 AMHowever, with Sir Haydn being overhauled and his blueprints unavailable, Peter Sam is the more likely of the two.

I'm pretty sure Sir Haydn's rebuild has been completed, right?

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on October 12, 2018, 08:32:02 PM

Quote from: Streak on October 12, 2018, 10:20:50 AMHowever, with Sir Haydn being overhauled and his blueprints unavailable, Peter Sam is the more likely of the two.

I'm pretty sure Sir Haydn's rebuild has been completed, right?

Yes his rebuild was finished back in April/May of this year as i followed some of the progress via twitter

I wouldn't mind Sir Handel before Peter Sam, but either way, I would buy whoever the next model is.
On another note, I wouldn't mind Bachmann making more resin buildings if they included more narrow gauge buildings. My picks would be the double engine shed and Neptune Refreshments.

Quote from: shining time on October 18, 2018, 09:50:06 AM
Yes his rebuild was finished back in April/May of this year as i followed some of the progress via twitter

Oh really?  :o I didn't hear about that. They could totally make Sir Handel now. But many people on this forum want Peter Sam first. Idk. Which ever one Bachmann chooses will be a welcome addition to the range. As long as it's either one of them and not Duncan.

Seeing the new Large Scale tankers on display today has really got me thinking about the concept of rolling stock recolors. While I'd like more unique trucks in the future like flatbeds, the "Henry's Forest" plant trucks, ladle trucks, or even Jerome and Judy. I genuinely really like a lot of the rolling stock recolors that Bachmann makes every year. Personally I'd really like the Toffee, Chocolate Syrup, and Jam Tankers made as well as maybe some Chocolate Factory/Circus Vans and a Brown Mail Van.

What do you guys think?

I'm looking forward if they make a brown mail van and box vans.

I'm surprised no one else brought up the possibility of the toffee tanker and chocolate syrup tanker being made in HO, but at this point I think it is almost a given.  

I think the only range that will get any new rolling stock toolings would be the narrow gauge range which I expect to either be brake vans or tippers.  The best I can see happening rolling stock wise for the other two ranges would be Troublesome Truck #6 (with a classic design) for HO and the red coaches in large scale.  

Quote from: Chaz on October 20, 2018, 03:40:14 PM
I'm surprised no one else brought up the possibility of the toffee tanker and chocolate syrup tanker being made in HO, but at this point I think it is almost a given.  

I think the only range that will get any new rolling stock toolings would be the narrow gauge range which I expect to either be brake vans or tippers.  The best I can see happening rolling stock wise for the other two ranges would be Troublesome Truck #6 (with a classic design) for HO and the red coaches in large scale.  

I think there is a possibility we may get new HO Scale rolling stock toolings eventually. I think there's still untapped potential there that Bachmann shouldn't sleep on. I would even be fine with different types of brake vans (particularly the orange one that shares Bradford's basis.) Any more rolling stock characters like Bradford, Henrietta (with a face), Old Slow Coach, Dexter, Hannah, Jerome & Judy, or maybe even Skiff the Railboat would be an instant buy from me.

The thing I love about the LS Toffee Tanker is how they didn't try to give it any unnessesary logos and such. It's completely accurate to the "Sticky Toffee Thomas" episode, all the way down to the black cap painted on top. The Toffee Tanker is something that you could just by 4 or 5 of and use them as generic tankers. That's what I love about it and why the Jam Tankers would be so cool for them to make. Even the Chocolate Syrup Tanker is cool. They removed the unrealistic green from the original Trackmaster model, making it look actually presentable. These tankers and the Lobster Refridgerator Van makes me hopeful that Bachmann will make more rolling stock like it (please make the Dieselworks Fuel Tanker from the Trackmaster line, Bachmann). Anxiously waiting for a possible release of the Toffee Tanker, CS Tanker, and that Large Scale Explosion Box Van from 2016 in HO Scale.

Funnily enough, Bradford and the orange CG brake van's basis is already made in Bachmann's branchline range so I could definitely see them using that, given that they used a branchline tooling for Toad.  

(https://hattonsimages.blob.core.windows.net/products/38-550A_3140807_Qty1_1.jpg)

I could possibly see Hannah happening in large scale (and eventually HO) and that would only depend if Henrietta is also made in large scale and if Bachmann is willing to invest in an entirely new tooling for that range.  

Interesting. I forgot that they used a Branchline range brake van for Toad. That brake van in that picture would be perfect. I'd imagine they'd make the orange CG one first (under the name Brake Van or Brake Van - Orange) and then they could release Bradford alongside an HO Samson (which I actually wouldn't be apposed to. Samson's a good character. ;))

Hannah would be cool. I'd hope they'd revamp Henrietta with a face if they decided to make Hannah. If there's any new RS toolings for Large Scale I can see, it's Henrietta/Hannah, Red Branchline Coaches, and maybe the Mail Van.

Dexter would be cool in my opinion. "School of Duck" was one of the best episodes from S22 and Dexter was a cute little coach. They could simply reuse the Red Brake Coach but with a face. Million dollar question though. Would he stay red or would they paint him in his school colors like at the end of the episode (but with wheels)?

Old Slow Coach and especially Jerome and Judy would be on the expensive side but I think they're possible... maybe. I don't think they'll ever make Rocky. He'd just be too big. And I don't think they'll ever make Fred Pelhay and Rickety after canceling them before.

Skiff's also an oddball pick... but he's just so cute, I really want him. He'd be great with Duck, Oliver, and possibly Ryan if he's made.

Anyways, any rolling stock character would be pretty cool, I think 2019 will probably have Toffee & CS Tankers, rerelease of flatbed, T Truck #6 (classic van, tanker, or blue open wagon), and maybe hopefully red express, brown mail van, or Henrietta w/ face. That's my baseline prediction until someone brings up another possible pick.

After seeing the TCA Fall Show video and since the 2019 announcements are almost 4 months away, I've decided to give my concrete predictions for what I think will be revealed/released next year. My last posts on HO and HOn30 ranges were mainly just bringing up possible projects for Bachmann to make in the future, but this is what I think legitimately has a chance next year. These predictions of mine will be my permanent picks until an new idea comes around during the next four months that I think is possible. With that being said, here's my "final" list.

HO Scale:

Stepney/Daisy- Bachmann need a high selling engine in the Thomas line this year. Stepney and Daisy are not only the most wanted on the forums, but being classic characters they'll sell very well (just as well say Duck and Oliver). I'm pretty sure it'll be one or the other. Could both happen? Yes. Do I think it's likely? Not really so I'll stick with just one of them.

Red Rosie- Let me explain. In 2015, after a rather small year of Class 08 recolor twins, we got two HO Scale engines: Oliver and Celebration Thomas. Now one was a completely unique character while the other was a reskin. I think 2019 might have the same thing. Many people want Rosie in her new livery and it would be an easy thing for them to release alongside Stepney or Daisy. It would be a nice engine to tide us over for 2019 until Stepney/Daisy's release in 2020 (I'd assume Rosie would be released 2019, judging by Celebration Thomas and Grumpy Diesel's releases).

Henrietta w/ Face- I'm going on a limb here. I think this is the year HO scale Henrietta will finally get a face. They could also release Hannah as a recolor too but I think Bachmann would focus on other recolors like...

Toffee/CS/Jam/Dieselworks Fuel Tankers- Now I don't think all four of these will be announced, I just think either of these are possible. I think Toffee and Chocolate Syrup Tankers are most likely and I wouldn't mind. But seeing as they made that Sodor Diesel Co. Tanker in only HO Scale, I think it's possible for them to make the Jam Tanker or the Dieselworks Fuel Tanker as a little unexpected surprise.

Flatbed (w/ New Load)/Red Express Coaches- Like the tankers and Stepney/Daisy, I think it's one or the other with these two pieces. Everyone on the forums have been wanting the flatbed to come back with a new load (don't ask me what it will be), but the red express coaches have just as much chance coming back in my opinion. Since I don't see both happening, it's another either/or situation.

Brown Mail Car- This would be an easy recolor that would sell pretty well. While the Green Mail Car didn't sell well, the Live Lobster Refrigerator Car did better so Bachmann might consider making this.

Troublesome Truck #6- There are three different designs I could see for this. A Ventilated Van (either classic or CGI design), a tanker (probably CGI but either oil or logo-less), and finally, a controversial option, a blue open wagon (basically the same as Troublesome Truck #4 but blue and with a different face).

That's it for HO Scale. I don't think all of these will happen (Henrietta is the least likely out of all of these) but these are the picks I have the most confidence in. Now on to...

HOn30:

Peter Sam/Sir Handel- Again, it's a 50/50 with these two. It could go either way. They're the two likeliest picks out of any other Narrow Gauge engine.

Brake Vans (Red, Blue, and Brown)- These seem the most likely rolling stock for the NG line. This will most likely be another slate trucks situation where there are just three of them, but these will all be different colors. Red and Blue for passenger trains and Brown for goods trains.

Welp, that was easy. That's probably because there isn't much you can do with this line. Part of me wants to predict the Refreshment Lady's Stand Coach from S7 to go along with Peter Sam but I don't think it's likely. Anyways, time for...

Resin Buildings:

Toby's Shed- Classic locale. Works with existing products like Toby and Henrietta. Also if they make Stepney, you could also use it as Stepney's Shed from Stepney Gets Lost. Double usage.

Ffarquhar/Dryaw Station- I think a station is pretty likely but both are equally possible. If I had to choose, I'd think Ffarquhar has a better chance but Dryaw is also pretty likely.

Farmer McColl's Barn- Decent sized building from a prominent and recognizable Sodor location. What more is there to say.

Neptune's Refreshments- This would be a small building that they could easily make and would go well with Peter Sam. It is a little obscure but I see so many people talking about it so I'd say it has a good chance.

I have a gut feeling that there will be new resin buildings next year. I can feel it in my bones. Finally, here are the predictions I'm pretty sure are the least likely to happen...

Large Scale:

Diesel/Rosie/Edward- I don't even know. Diesel got canceled but I have a feeling that they could bring him back from the dead, Rosie is a small easy character that would co-enside with an HO Scale Red Rosie, and Edward (while a tender engine) isn't too big and would sell just as well as Thomas, James, Emily, Percy, and Toby, seeing as he was a main character. ;)

Henrietta (and maybe Hannah)- Again, possible but who knows? I'm gonna take a chance and say she'll finally be made. I know that she'd sell well.

Red Branch Line Coaches- These are also a risky pick. I think these would be a good investment in Large Scale seeing how well they did in HO Scale. Plus, it would give Percy, James, and possibly Edward something to pull.

Troublesome Truck #3- This is more likely than you might think. Just slap a face on the existing Ventilated Van or Tanker models and boom easy Troublesome Truck.

Jam/Dieselworks Fuel Tanker- If HO Scale were to do these, I'd have no doubt they'd probably be made in Large Scale. Who knows? They may make them in Large Scale and not HO. (Also the dieselworks one would look good with Diesel)

"Mr. Percival" figure- This is my least likely pick out of everything on this whole list. The only argument I have for this guy is... well. We have narrow gauge engines. Why not the narrow gauge controller.

And with that, this list is done. The Large Scale section is the one I have the least confidence in. Large Scale is so unpredictable (and is on the verge of death I'm sorry to say). The other sections I have much more confidence in. I think that a lot of this stuff is possible. There are things I couldn't fit in here like Trevor and the Orange Brake Van (and Stanley ;D), but I think this is a satisfactory list. What do you all think? This has been a very long post so let me just cut it off here. Peace.

Daisy would be the best addition this year I think. Or Boco but as he's not in the CGI series yet I can't see him happening.

My 2019 suggestions.

HO

Engines

Sidney
Reintroduced Salty
Stanley
Hiro
Charlie
Stepney
Daisy

Rolling Stock
Rocky
Redesigned Henrietta (with face)
Hopper Wagon
Troublesome Truck #6
Explosives Van
Flatbed

Vehicles
Trevor
Kevin
Merrick
Owen

Buildings
Sodor Steamworks
Sodor Airport
Motorized Watermill

OO9

Engines
Sir Handel
Peter Sam
Victor
Luke

Rolling Stock
NG Brakevans
NG Blue Mountain Quarry Wagons

Quote from: sean1994rail on December 12, 2018, 05:04:49 PM
My 2019 suggestions.

HO

Engines

Sidney
Reintroduced Salty
Stanley
Hiro
Charlie
Stepney
Daisy

Rolling Stock
Rocky
Redesigned Henrietta (with face)
Hopper Wagon
Troublesome Truck #6
Explosives Van
Flatbed

Vehicles
Trevor
Kevin
Merrick
Owen

Buildings
Sodor Steamworks
Sodor Airport
Motorized Watermill

OO9

Engines
Sir Handel
Peter Sam
Victor
Luke

Rolling Stock
NG Brakevans
NG Blue Mountain Quarry Wagons

Some good suggestions here. Would really like a Reintroduced Salty and especially Stanley. Redesigned Henrietta (with face) would be great too. I hope they'd make Hannah as well. One thing though, I don't think Merrick and Owen would be listed under vehicles if they did get in. Maybe Merrick but definitely not Owen. He'd be a Building. You can see some of my suggestions/predictions earlier in this thread if you want.

The price for Salty has finally gone up on eBay as of late, but nothing drastic compared to the express coaches or flat car with paint drums.  I'm sure if the price continues from there and if he became a lot harder to find, I think Salty can eventually find his way back into the range. 

If Salty was to eventually reintroduced, would he be remodeled to look like his CGI design. I know I'm one to be pro-CGI but I actually wouldn't want that. Most of Salty's CG promos leave off his buffer weathering for some reason and at that rate they wouldn't add his headlamp he gained from S18 onwards. For now, I'd honestly just rather them rerelease the same Salty from before, not remodel him in his CGI design. If I wanted to, I could do that myself.

Quote from: sean1994rail on December 12, 2018, 05:04:49 PM
HO

Engines

Sidney
Reintroduced Salty
Stanley
Hiro
Charlie
Stepney
Daisy

Quote from: Chaz on December 13, 2018, 12:14:57 AM
The price for Salty has finally gone up on eBay as of late, but nothing drastic compared to the express coaches or flat car with paint drums.  I'm sure if the price continues from there and if he became a lot harder to find, I think Salty can eventually find his way back into the range.  

It's actually quite surprising when you look at Salty's timeline from when he was announced by Bachmann right up to his cancelation.  Truth be told, Salty probably did better than Arry/Bert, but came no where close to Mavis in terms of sales. However, seeing as in quite a few cases Salty is going for well over $100 even for a used model, it leaves me a little confused.  What I can't understand is why Salty's sales were almost as bad as Coca-Cola on their first year, yet since his cancelation Salty and his set have commanded prices as if they were Hayley Williams' autograph.  The question is, where was all this demand for Salty back when he was still available?

Interestingly enough, my hobby shop still has the Salty set in stock, but the owner is a cheapskate and likes to get every penny he can, so the set has been overpriced for some time now.  However, after seeing prices on eBay, it really has me looking at the price my hobby shop wants, and at that rate it now seems like a good deal, but that's after it sat there for over 5 years.  Might be tempted to pick that up now...  I guess the question to be asked at this point is how well would Salty do if he was brought back, and would it really be worth while for Bachmann to do so or would history just repeat itself?  

-Rusty

I guess people didn't purchase Salty as much cause they thought he'd stick around? Maybe? He is a consistently used character in the series since his inception. So when Salty was discontinued, it caught everyone off guard and they rushed to get him and/or his set before it could go up in price. That's my theory anyways. I don't have Bachmann Salty yet so if his prices on EBay and elsewhere are rising, I definitely want Bachmann to rerelease him.

Honestly, I think Salty deserves to be in the line more than Arry and Bert. While those two were prevalent in the classic series and the new series, they became so underused and worthless once the CGI series hit. Rosie at least has become more prominent in the past two seasons, Arry and Bert haven't had jack. I'd be fine with Bachmann discontinuing Arry and Bert and bringing back Salty, I would just need to get my hands on them before they do.

Also if Salty was brought back, that could lead them to release a Bachmann HO Porter, which would be really cool. There's no way they'd put Porter in without Salty.

I haven't been on here in a while, but I'm mainly into the Narrow Gauge now as I've really fallen in love with the characters and stories, plus being small, I think I could more easily do a nice layout with them.  That being said, really hoping for the rest of the main engines from Series 4 in this order:

Sir Handel (if possible, switchable name plates for Sir Handel/Falcon)
Peter Sam (swappable nameplates too)
Duncan
Duke

Rolling stock, I'd like:

Brake vans in various colors

Any other rolling stock or accessories would be wonderful, but really hoping they can pick up on getting the original engines done.

And I'll throw in for HO too, I know everyone says every year it can't be done, but Diesel 10 would be great.

Quote from: DrNickRiviera995 on December 24, 2018, 09:54:17 AM
I haven't been on here in a while, but I'm mainly into the Narrow Gauge now as I've really fallen in love with the characters and stories, plus being small, I think I could more easily do a nice layout with them.  That being said, really hoping for the rest of the main engines from Series 4 in this order:

Sir Handel (if possible, switchable name plates for Sir Handel/Falcon)
Peter Sam (swappable nameplates too)
Duncan

Peter Sam would need his normal funnel before the episode of Trucks.

If Bachmann pulled off slate wagons with different road numbers from Talyllyn and even made something as obscure for older fans like the spiteful brake van, I honestly would not put it past Bachmann to announce Stuart and Falcon alongside Peter Sam and Sir Handel respectively.

Quote from: Chaz on December 27, 2018, 10:28:21 PM
If Bachmann pulled off slate wagons with different road numbers from Talyllyn and even made something as obscure for older fans like the spiteful brake van, I honestly would not put it past Bachmann to announce Stuart and Falcon alongside Peter Sam and Sir Handel respectively.

You know what else? That's actually kind of a super smart business move on their part of they did that. It would likely approximately double the sales of those models!

A Stuart version of Peter Sam would definitely be worth buying as it would (hopefully) have the old funnel instead of Peter Sam's current Geisel funnel.

Quote from: angelob6660 on December 27, 2018, 08:18:46 PM
Peter Sam would need his normal funnel before the episode of Trucks.

Yeah, like you said.

Quote from: Streak on December 28, 2018, 01:46:46 AM

A Stuart version of Peter Sam would definitely be worth buying as it would (hopefully) have the old funnel instead of Peter Sam's current Giesel funnel.

Quote from: angelob6660 on December 27, 2018, 08:18:46 PM
Peter Sam would need his normal funnel before the episode of Trucks.

Yeah, like you said.

All neat ideas.  I don't know necessarily if they'd have double the sales though.  Maybe depending on what you wanted to model you could choose one or the other.  Couldn't see having Stuart and Falcon though unless they released Duke though.

Quote from: Chaz on December 27, 2018, 10:28:21 PM
If Bachmann pulled off slate wagons with different road numbers from Talyllyn and even made something as obscure for older fans like the spiteful brake van, I honestly would not put it past Bachmann to announce Stuart and Falcon alongside Peter Sam and Sir Handel respectively.

The only thing that has me questioning this idea goes back to a previous topic we discussed before.  Would Peter Sam and Sir Handel as Stuart and Falcon actually be a worthwhile addition to the range, or would this be going down the same road as the old shape Henry topic?  I say this because when people were asking about getting Henry in his old shape, it was shot down with reason's being the short amount of time Henry had his old shape and how minor the changes would be.  Other than a change of nameplates (and in the case of Peter Sam his funnel), the differences would be minor, which to some may not justify going out and buying another of (to some) the exact same model.  I know a few people stated that when Grumpy Diesel was released, they didn't see any reason in going out and buying an entirely new model, just for the luxury of having a somewhat better face.

I kind of feel like Stuart and Falcon kind of face the same predicament when it comes to being announced.  In the end I kind of feel like Bachmann themselves would look at it from the standpoint of if people want a Start and/or Falcon, they could easily just swap out a funnel and make new nameplates themselves.  I don't know, that's just my thoughts on the subject and maybe someone else can shed some light on that theory as well.

-Rusty

That's actually a good point, since in some cases it wouldn't be that much more different than the "old shape Henry" debate brought up.  Yes they would just have different nameplates and require a different funnel for Stuart, but it wouldn't change the fact that the appeal behind them would be a lot more limited.  The only way Stuart and Falcon would work is if they were announced alongside Peter Sam and Sir Handel, otherwise we would be looking at another "Grumpy Diesel" which should be avoided at this point.  The lack of no Duke model and the unlikeliness of that happening wouldn't help much either (unless you're me or Grandpuff ;)).

Very few merchandise lines have made separate models for Stuart and Falcon, only Nakayoshi for Stuart and Ertl for Falcon.
(http://i63.tinypic.com/29dtp53.jpg)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasthetankengineertl/images/2/2c/ERTLFalcon.JPG/revision/latest?cb=20171224205356)

Probably won't help much, especially since they would only be a cherry on top for some people, but obviously not the bigger picture, which again comes down to just models of Sir Handel and Peter Sam alone.  As you said the conversion would be simple enough that the bigger picture at that point would be, why bother?

Stuart & Falcon/Peter Sam & Sir Handel variants of their respective models would probably be one of those things the higher-ups would address in way like, "Well, that's the beauty of the hobby- if you want it bad enough, you make it yourself."

Could they do it? Absolutely.
Is it probable that they will? Not much at all.

Though it would be pretty cool if Bachmann put a little more thought into producing a variety of face plates with different expressions for the existing and future range. Perhaps they were gauging the market with grumpy Diesel?

for the NG range–just model Peter Sam and Sir Handel after their current TV appearances. no alternate nameplates, alternate funnel for Peter Sam, nothing fancy. they're the next logical step, throw in some red or blue/cream coaches and a brake van and you have all the bases covered for both character selection and rolling stock selection.

Well seeing as how we are in the new year, I figured I would share some quick thoughts before the Toy Fair.  I'll admit I am not having my hopes up too high this year, but there have been times that after a bad lineup of announcements Bachmann usually turns things around the following year or two later.  So here's hoping this is the year that does so.

My thoughts on everything but buildings have remained consistent, apart from buildings which I will get to in a minute.  Peter Sam is the one thing I want the most next year.  Narrow gauge brake vans are welcome too, but I prefer them to be announced alongside Peter Sam.  I can't say I'm expecting much out of HO and especially large scale, but maybe this year things will be different like maybe a new engine tooling for HO like Stepney or Daisy, or a new troublesome truck, or the red coaches in large scale.  Either way, we have had diamonds in the rough in the past like the Spiteful brake van in the HO announcements last year so maybe something as simple as a troublesome tanker from Toad Stands By would really win over a lot of fans.

As for buildings, it's obvious that the demand for resin buildings has really gone up, and it would be a shame if there were no new buildings for four years in a row now.  However, do they have to necessarily be resin?  Part of me thinks that maybe Bachmann can invest in kits or new plastic buildings that at the very least can be improvements over the plasticville recolors or the knapford and tidmouth sheds kits respectively.  It would not only be a much cheaper alternative but it may also allow for some more creativity from Thomas fans in the process.  So even if the buildings aren't necessarily made of resin, I can't say I would be disappointed if at the very least we got a nice alternative.

Not much more to discuss at that point until if and only if the new range gets announced.  Here's hoping 2019 is a good year for Bachmann.

Peter Sam is definitely the thing I want announced this year the most as well. With all of the discussion that has been happening on a new narrow gauge loco, I'm sure that it is one of Bachmann's top priorities as far as new products with new toolings are concerned.

Nice to see buildings brought back into discussion again too. Plastic kits were actually brought up in a different thread: https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,35209.0.html

Interestingly enough, resin seems to be the cheaper alternative based on what Yardmaster stated, and I would still prefer resin if I had the choice. Also, if I could pick two buildings to get announced for this year, it would be a narrow gauge engine shed (hopefully two stalls) and Neptune Refreshments as they are both small buildings that would go wonderfully with Peter Sam and the rest of the narrow gauge range altogether.

All in all, I too am not expecting much for this year, but will remain optimistic nonetheless.

I want either Peter Sam, or Sir Handel, or both, since Sir Haydn is out of overhaul now (though I would prefer Sir Handel, Peter Sam does seem to have more demand). I also would want the Brake Vans in all colors (if possible). For regular HO, either skip an engine or make Stepney, Troublesome Truck 6, and bring back the Flatbed with Paint Drums. For Large Scale, the Red Coaches would be nice.

I think the Resin Buildings should be brought back as well, and I have no real suggestions, so the ones TerencetheTractor525 suggested would be nice.

The 2019 announcements are now only one month and a half away. What I've learned after last year is not to get my hopes too high. I had my hopes high, and the 2018 announcements were disappointing, with the HO Spiteful Brake Van being one of the only good things.

Here's what I'd expect next month:

HO Scale:
Sidney, preferably Stepney or Daisy (if a new tooling is possible)
Troublesome Truck #6 (please be a tanker)
Explosives Van
Red Express Coaches (returning from discontinuation)

Narrow Gauge:
Peter Sam

Large Scale:
Red Coaches

Since the 2019 announcements are so close and since everyone seems to be doing it, I'll place my predictions for 2019 down here.

HO Scale:

Stepney or Daisy (one or the other)
Red Rosie
Troublesome Truck #6 (Tanker or Van)
Toffee and Chocolate Sryup Tankers
Brown Mail Van
Henrietta w/ Face (hopefully)

HOn30 Scale:

Peter Sam
Narrow Gauge Brakevans (Blue, Red, and Brown)

Resin Buildings:

Don't know what they'll do, I just think they may announce some. Maybe Neptune's Refreshments?

Large Scale:

Diesel or Rosie (hopefully, fingers crossed)
Red Coaches
Henrietta (also hopefully)

Forgot to comment on Red Rosie.  Yeah, that's probably what I imagine we would get as another cop-out announcement if they don't announce a new character in HO this year like Grumpy Diesel.  I feel like even Bachmann would likely be a -little- self-aware at this point not to announce Sidney knowing that they would give us 3 different models with the Diesel tooling in a row.

One other important thing I did want to mention while discussing with a friend earlier is whether it would be plastic or resin (though resin is preferable) I think a new coal hopper would be a good idea.  Especially with there being two water towers after the plasticville one got discontinued, it wouldn't be a bad idea to include a new coal hopper in return.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d5/OliverOwnsUp23.png/revision/latest?cb=20130211151449)

So if we do get resin buildings then I would be all for a coal hopper, Neptune's Refreshments, Toby's shed and a narrow gauge shed.

If we have to get another engine recolor in HO Scale for budget reasons, then instead of Sidney, Bachmann could announce Red Rosie, Green Thomas (LBSC), or Black James, as those recolors would probably sell well.

For new toolings in HO Scale, Stepney and Daisy are definitely the most popular requests. Stepney is a small tank engine with a unique livery, and Daisy would be the first bogied diesel in the range. They're both classic characters, and Bachmann knows nostalgia sells. Popular demand gave us Oliver. Let's hope the 2019 announcements deliver, one month from now.

The most requested HO rolling stock is definitely a Troublesome Tanker (Troublesome Truck #6), and we desperately need one. Even though troublesome tankers are in the CGI series, they would sell even better if they're based on the classic series design from Toad Stands By, since all of Bachmann's previous Troublesome Trucks are based on the classic series. Bachmann has a pattern of announcing a Troublesome Truck every three years, and Troublesome Truck #5 was announced in 2016, so it's been three years. This should be the year of Troublesome Truck #6. I wouldn't mind it being a Ventilated Van either. We really don't need another open wagon, unless it's a Season 1 Troublesome Truck.

Speaking of Ventilated Van, it would be nice to get the Explosives Van in HO Scale.

Regarding Narrow Gauge, Peter Sam or Sir Handel definitely must get announced this year. Rusty ended up being based on his CGI render, but his render is nowhere near as bad as Duncan's. There's also a possibility of Peter Sam or Sir Handel being based on their CGI renders, but their renders are actually great.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on January 08, 2019, 02:41:06 PM
If we have to get another engine recolor in HO Scale for budget reasons, then instead of Sidney, Bachmann could announce Red Rosie, Green Thomas (LBSC), or Black James, as those recolors would probably sell well.

For new toolings in HO Scale, Stepney and Daisy are definitely the most popular requests. Stepney is a small tank engine with a unique livery, and Daisy would be the first bogied diesel in the range. They're both classic characters, and Bachmann knows nostalgia sells. Popular demand gave us Oliver. Let's hope the 2019 announcements deliver, one month from now.

The most requested HO rolling stock is definitely a Troublesome Tanker (Troublesome Truck #6), and we desperately need one. Even though troublesome tankers are in the CGI series, they would sell even better if they're based on the classic series design from Toad Stands By, since all of Bachmann's previous Troublesome Trucks are based on the classic series. Bachmann has a pattern of announcing a Troublesome Truck every three years, and Troublesome Truck #5 was announced in 2016, so it's been three years. This should be the year of Troublesome Truck #6. I wouldn't mind it being a Ventilated Van either. We really don't need another open wagon, unless it's a Season 1 Troublesome Truck.

Speaking of Ventilated Van, it would be nice to get the Explosives Van in HO Scale.

Regarding Narrow Gauge, Peter Sam or Sir Handel definitely must get announced this year. Rusty ended up being based on his CGI render, but his render is nowhere near as bad as Duncan's. There's also a possibility of Peter Sam or Sir Handel being based on their CGI renders, but their renders are actually great.

Considering Skarloey and Rheneas are both based on their CGI renders, I'm positive Peter Sam and Sir Handel both will be based on their CGI models.

Also, with all this talk about Troublesome Trucks, does anyone else kinda want to see Bachmann do Hector at some point?

The problem with Hector is that he would require a new tooling. Not only that, but he could also be too tall.

Bachmann made S.C. Ruffey and the Spiteful Brake Van because they had the toolings for them.

In terms of HO Scale Engines, if Daisy gets picked I'm certain it would be just her but if they chose to make/announce Stepney, I think there's a strong chance they'd announce a recolor like Red Rosie alongside him (with the recolor coming out in the spring/summer and Stepney coming out either end of the year or early next year)

In 2015, we got both Oliver and Celebration Thomas announced that year so they could do something like that again this year. If they do make Red Rosie, I just hope that Bachmann gives her rivets (maybe painted on at least) or at least her headlamp.

The Great Western Van, and the Fruit and Vegetable Van were first made in Large Scale, but later released in HO Scale. The Explosives Van, however, is still exclusive to Large Scale. Will the Explosives Van finally make its way into HO Scale? Hopefully, this will be the year. The HO rolling stock I want the most is the Explosives Van, and a tanker for Troublesome Truck #6. Neither of which require new toolings, with just the tanker getting a face on it. If Troublesome Truck #6 ends up being a ventilated van, that would also be okay. #1 and #2 were open wagons, #3 was a cattle wagon, #4 was a recolor of the discontinued 6-ton wagon, and #5 was a salt wagon.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on January 08, 2019, 08:03:34 PM
The problem with Hector is that he would require a new tooling. Not only that, but he could also be too tall.

Bachmann made S.C. Ruffey and the Spiteful Brake Van because they had the toolings for them.

I would think so too about the tooling, if it wasn't already totally possible for Bachmann to recolor the tooling into the Hopper Wagons.

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on January 09, 2019, 11:11:12 PM
I would think so too about the tooling, if it wasn't already totally possible for Bachmann to recolor the tooling into the Hopper Wagons.

Aren't the normal hoppers from the show much smaller than Hector? There's no other truck like Hector if I remember correctly. I don't think he's too tall to be made though. He is tall but not too tall. Granted I don't know if they'd go all out for Hector sadly. I think the only rolling stock characters I can see them making brand new toolings for are Old Slow Coach and maybe the Slip Coaches. Characters like Hannah, Bradford, and Dexter can also be made using existing toolings.

It would really be nice for Fred Pelhay and Rickety to get reconsidered for HO Scale, but the reason they got cancelled is most likely because they're RWS-only characters, and they never appeared in the television series most likely for budget reasons.

Just like Toad, Bradford can also be made using a Bachmann UK tooling, but we can't have Bradford without Samson. I think using that same tooling, Bachmann can make the brown brake van from the CGI series.

Narrow Gauge could use brake vans right about now, but another piece of rolling stock I'd like to see in that range is a Troublesome Slate Truck, which would be a slate wagon with a face on it.

If we get a troublesome tanker in HO Scale, should it be a tar, milk, or oil tanker? I think Troublesome Truck #6 should be a return of the Tar Tanker, but this time, having a face. Many people want the Tar Tanker back, and re-releasing it as a Troublesome Truck would be killing two birds with one stone, going the model series route like they normally do when making Troublesome Trucks, but if Bachmann goes the CGI route, then it would be an Oil Tanker with a face, which means they'd have to discontinue the one without the face.

Quote from: Streak on January 09, 2019, 11:54:24 PM

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on January 09, 2019, 11:11:12 PM
I would think so too about the tooling, if it wasn't already totally possible for Bachmann to recolor the tooling into the Hopper Wagons.

Aren't the normal hoppers from the show much smaller than Hector? There's no other truck like Hector if I remember correctly. I don't think he's too tall to be made though. He is tall but not too tall. Granted I don't know if they'd go all out for Hector sadly. I think the only rolling stock characters I can see them making brand new toolings for are Old Slow Coach and maybe the Slip Coaches. Characters like Hannah, Bradford, and Dexter can also be made using existing toolings.

I don't know about size, but I do know that Bachmann has done altered versions of stock before. The Spiteful Brakevan is a mix between The Railway Series books design and the TV Series design, things like the Toffee Tankers don't axtually exist in the show (as far as I know), and Troublesome Truck #3 and #4 aren't exactly accurate to the show either. Heck, the Narrow Gauge Slate Wagons are COMLETELY wrong, so having Hopper Wagons that aren't 100% accurate to what's on screen isn't totally out of the question, IMO.

True true. They could reuse a Hector tooling for other hoppers if they wanted to. You do have a point there. I wouldn't want that to happen as I'd rather Hector keep his unique basis design but it is totally possible for them to do that.

Also, yes the Toffee Tanker is from the show. It's from Sticky Toffee Thomas from Season 11 I believe. Imagine if there was BWBA dream sequences in a model episode. That's Sticky Toffee Thomas.

Not entirely sure but Troublesome Truck #4 may be based on the a Season 10 episode: Thomas' New Trucks. In that ep James had blue T. Trucks and Thomas had green ones. Jury's still out on the slate wagons and T. Truck #3 though. Spiteful Brakevan is also a simple answer. It's based on the Wooden Railway design of the character. It's not show accurate but it is based on something. Heck, I bet the only reason Bachmann were gonna make Fred Pelhay and Rickety was because they were in WR.

In most cases for rolling stock, Bachmann uses ex-mainline toolings for HO, so I would bet on one of these toolings if we were to get hoppers anytime soon:

(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/ipEAAOSwHjNV-Nkf/s-l1600.jpg)

(https://hattonsimages.blob.core.windows.net/products/37408-LN_3096917_Qty1_1.jpg)

I imagine they would likely come with a removable ballast load too, similar to the coal wagon.  

As for Hector, I really wouldn't count on him happening since he would require a new tooling and the tooling would likely be exclusive to Hector alone, which would make him even less likely from other rolling stock characters like Hannah or Bradford.

The Bachmann Spiteful brake van isn't based on the Wooden Railway design.  It uses the same livery on the large scale brake van model, which as a result made it a hybrid of both the classic series/RWS design.  If it was based on the wooden railway design, the roof would be a different color and it would have a different face.

One month away from the 2019 announcements, and suspense is building. Could this be an improvement over last year's? I sure hope so. I'd be okay getting any engine with a new tooling as long as it's not Nia, Rebecca, or Philip.

If we get Stepney or Daisy, I would be overjoyed. The two most highly-requested models.
If we get Stanley, Porter, Samson, or Ryan, I'd be alright. Characters that are moderately-requested.

If we end up getting another engine recolor, then Red Rosie, LBSC Green Thomas, or Black James would all be better-received than Sidney would, due to the fact that he's another Class 08, like Paxton and Grumpy Diesel, which were announced on two consecutive years.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on January 11, 2019, 12:55:39 AM
One month away from the 2019 announcements, and suspense is building. Could this be an improvement over last year's? I sure hope so. I'd be okay getting any engine with a new tooling as long as it's not Nia, Rebecca, or Philip.

If we get Stepney or Daisy, I would be overjoyed. The two most highly-requested models.
If we get Stanley, Porter, Samson, or Ryan, I'd be alright. Characters that are moderately-requested.

If we end up getting another engine recolor, then Red Rosie, LBSC Green Thomas, or Black James would all be better-received than Sidney would, due to the fact that he's another Class 08, like Paxton and Grumpy Diesel, which were announced on two consecutive years.

Honestly I'd be down with any of the characters you listed (especially Stanley) but I won't be transferring about that as I don't want to start yet another flame war.

But honestly it's probably between Stepney and Daisy for unique engine and Red Rosie leading the pack for recolors. I'm placing my bets on them.

Also, in response to Chaz, totally forgot about the white roof on the WR model and the face. That's my b. I guess Spiteful's design isn't based on WR after all. Sorry.

Quote from: Chaz on January 11, 2019, 12:37:20 AM
In most cases for rolling stock, Bachmann uses ex-mainline toolings for HO, so I would bet on one of these toolings if we were to get hoppers anytime soon:

(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/ipEAAOSwHjNV-Nkf/s-l1600.jpg)

(https://hattonsimages.blob.core.windows.net/products/37408-LN_3096917_Qty1_1.jpg)

I imagine they would likely come with a removable ballast load too, similar to the coal wagon.  

As for Hector, I really wouldn't count on him happening since he would require a new tooling and the tooling would likely be exclusive to Hector alone, which would make him even less likely from other rolling stock characters like Hannah or Bradford.

The Bachmann Spiteful brake van isn't based on the Wooden Railway design.  It uses the same livery on the large scale brake van model, which as a result made it a hybrid of both the classic series/RWS design.  If it was based on the wooden railway design, the roof would be a different color and it would have a different face.

I wouldn't be too picky about having that brown hopper be the tooling used for Hector, if they did him.

Quite frankly, I would not mind seeing a Bachmann Hector too, even if they use the tooling of the brown hopper shown above. The tanker from Sticky Toffee Thomas was a unique tooling all on its own after all, yet Bachmann used the standard tanker tooling for it in the large scale range. To save cost, I could see the same happening to a Bachmann Hector.

However, I would not state the same thing for the narrow gauge carriages. They are too charming. I'm personally still hoping that each will be a different tooling to match the classic television series:

Red Carriage:

(http://i67.tinypic.com/4gi7o0.jpg)

Blue Carriage:

(http://i64.tinypic.com/i2jchs.jpg)

(But I also understand if this does not happen  :-\)

Actually, after doing some comparisons, that brown hopper is notably different from Hector, so it might actually not be such a good idea to use it for him. But for regular hopper wagons in the line, it could work. Although, when it comes to making money off of a tooling, perhaps doing Hector first, then just recoloring his tooling into a generic hopper wagon might be the best route to go.

Minor little gush: I never would have imagined that characters like Stanley, Porter, and Samson are characters that Bachmann could possibly realistically make, all because of Rosie. Of course Stepney and Daisy are much higher for obvious reasons but I'm just shocked those other guys even have a chance.

While I would want him eventually, I really hope they don't announce Sidney this year. A new Class 08 three years in a row is not a very good move for Bachmann to make.

Honestly, I'm really hoping for some surprising out of nowhere things from Bachmann's 2019 line-up. Maybe they'll finally make a HO Scale Trevor? I doubt it but it would be surprising.

Given that the 2019 announcements are only weeks away, I feel it's time to get my list of predictions/wishes/ideas that Mattel honestly doesn't care about out of the way.  So here is what I think could make great additions to the ranges in 2019.

HO:

Red Rosie:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/3f/TheFastestRedEngineonSodor50.png/revision/latest?cb=20180620205103)
She honestly seems inevitable in my opinion, and considering how minimal announcements have been and how the budget for a new engine tooling just isn't there, it only adds to her probability.  There's really not much more to say on this topic, so I'll leave it at that.

Original Thomas and Original James:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/8d/TheAdventureBegins152.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315082253) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/83/TheAdventureBegins345.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315084328)
If we're going to start doing engine recolors, then I think we should be focusing our attention to recolors that will actually sell.  The Adventure Begins has proven to be a big success (unlike BWBA) and since then Thomas in his LBSC livery and James in his red and black paint scheme have been asked for among fans.  If Bachmann wants engine recolors, this is the way to go.  If they still want to do Red Rosie alongside Thomas and James, then so be it, but either way these models should be in the lineup as well and take priority.  Maybe while Bachmann is at it they could update the faces, but that's wishful thinking in my opinion.  I personally would rather see an Original Thomas in Large Scale (considering that's the scale I run), but HO could benefit from this addition as well.  Maybe in the future Large Scale could obtain this addition as well.  In all, the tooling is there, and all it takes is a change of paint.  These personally would sell better than Red Rosie, as I'm sure those who wanted her in that livery have already done the modification themselves, and the only ones who would buy her at this point are the ones that haven't already.  Original Thomas and Original James please.

Red Express Coaches:
Considering the fact that many people were happy to see Gordon's Express Coaches make a comeback after years of having no express coaches in the range at all, I feel that bringing back the red ones should be on Bachmann's To Do List as well.  There has been a demand for these additions to be brought back, and introducing them the following year that the green ones were announced makes sense.  Given the demand for express coaches right now, it's a guarantee that these additions would sell, and sell well at that.  I think the only issue I could see with the request to bring these back would be the possibility that Bachmann may consider the green ones to be enough, and therefore would rather focus their attention towards Narrow Gauge as a top priority.

Flat Car w/ Paint Drums (or other load):
This is another piece of rolling stock people have been asking to return, but more so just the flatbed itself.  In the last 10 years, the model has been becoming harder to find, not only physically, but at a reasonable price as well.  It's pretty clear the demand for it is there, and many modelers would be grateful to see this make a comeback instead of having to pay upwards of $500+ on eBay.  Personally I think that if Bachmann wanted to they could easily just mold the current paint drums in black plastic, therefore making them oil drums without the need for additional painting/decaling.  Or if Bachmann just wanted to take the easy route, they could just bring back the flatbed and nothing else.  It's a simple addition because as I said before, what people are really after is just the flatbed itself.

Troublesome Truck #6:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/cd/TheSpotlessRecord22.PNG/revision/latest?cb=20091107193357)
This is another piece or rolling stock I've seen in popular demand.  I don't however see Bachmann doing something such as a troublesome tanker from Toad Stands By, as chances are that they would more likely go with the new CGI tankers considering that is what Mattel would push for.  Personally I think Bachmann should look into making their next troublesome truck a box van, similar to what I've mentioned for Large Scale, but I'll get to that shortly.  When also considering they're into van recolors with the addition of the Great Western Van and the Fruits and Vegetables Van, I think just simply taking a brown van and putting a face on it would suffice.  Hector is out of the question simply because of his large size resulting in potential chances for high production costs and an RRP.  In addition to that, when was the last time Bachmann did a new rolling stock tooling in HO?

Resin Buildings:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bf/Bulldog47.png/revision/latest?cb=20160123213854) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/7d/SpecialFunnel5.png/revision/latest?cb=20160117201434) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasthetankengineandfriendsclassic/images/6/6b/ABadDayForSirHandel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20170607015008)
I think resin buildings not only have a demand, but they would be far cheaper to produce than engines and comparable in price to rolling stock.  However, this doesn't apply to structures similar to Maithwaite Station or Brendam Warehouse.  What Bachmann should focus on are smaller structures like the Storage Shed.  I'm thinking more along the lines of structures such as the Narrow Gauge Engine Shed or the Ruined Castle.  One structure that sticks in mind and that I would kill to see, is the Workman's Cottage from the episode Bulldog.  Don't ask me why, but this is by far one of the most unique little structures and somewhat cute.  Wouldn't mind purchasing this little piece of real-estate for myself.  Another thing that should be noted is that resin buildings aimed towards Narrow Gauge could potentially have an increased number of sales compared to something like a Signal Gantry.  From a realistic standpoint, smaller structures seem wayyyyyyy more probable than something like the Steamworks or the Sodor Shipping Company.

Narrow Gauge:

Peter Sam:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bc/MainPeterSamCGI.png/revision/latest?cb=20171025152052)
From what I've seen, Peter Sam defiantly has the most demand right now.  Duncan did hold close second for a while, but after Rusty was finally revealed, many people got a scare and fear Duncan could very well end up in his CGI render.  That being the case, Peter Sam has been the most talked about and most requested for the next narrow gauge engine in the upcoming announcements.  Although announcements for Narrow Gauge have been minimal, I think many would be happy even if just Peter Sam alone made it into the announcements this year.  Considering the narrow gauge coaches are yet to be in stock, it also leads some to question if Bachmann would bother with rolling stock at this point anyways.

Brakevan(s):
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/ea/Granpuff56.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116210335) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c7/SleepingBeauty29.png/revision/latest?cb=20160209193820) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/0b/Granpuff46.png/revision/latest?cb=20160116205925)
I think these would be a winning formula for Bachmann, and they could easily make more than just one.  This is another addition that people have been asking for and also hoping to see alongside Peter Sam at that.  When also considering the plentiful amount of rolling stock we have in the range already, a brakevan is much needed at this time.  Going back to the topic of making more than 1, they could easily do 3 different colors of brakevans.  Red and Blue to go along with the coaches, and brown to go along with the slate trucks and/or vans.  This is similar to what they did with the 3 variations of slate trucks, only a color change would be a lot more pronounced than a road number.  At the end of the day, Bachmann would have 3 new pieces of rolling stock for the cost of 1.

V-Tippers:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/14/TheChristmasTreeExpress7.png/revision/latest?cb=20151210005221)
I'm not sure how much demand there is for these, but I'm sure they would be a welcome addition to the range nonetheless.   When also considering the emphasis on mining for the Skarloey Railway, this only adds to the appeal of these wagons.  Maybe if Bachmann wanted to, they could also make 2 or more variations of these trucks as well, therefore spreading out the cost of production that much more.  I personally think these would be great additions and would fit in well with the already existing slate trucks in the range.  In addition to that, modelers would be sure to add these to their quarry layouts.

Large Scale:

Mavis:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/ff/HeroOfTheRails300.png/revision/latest?cb=20150313185758)
Regardless what some people say, Diesel is not going to make a comeback in terms of Large Scale announcements, and that being the case, Bachmann would be better off putting their time and money into a more popular character anyways.  If they're going to do another engine in Large Scale (and a diesel at that) Mavis is the way to go.  Mavis has proved her popularity by being the best selling diesel in the range, while characters like Arry, Bert, Salty, etc have had minimal sales, leading to their demise.  This is the exact opposite with Mavis as her sales have remained consistent ever since she was released.  A Large Scale model could fair the same way, and it would be nice to have her to go along with Toby.  In addition to that, trams are very popular among garden railroads, and Mavis with her similar tram-like design would fit in perfectly.  I personally would buy a model of her for my garden railroad, as her design and livery would fit in excellently, especially once she's been given some stone trucks to pull.  Something that should also be noted is that Mavis could easily reuse Toby's chassis, which if far simpler than the complexity of Diesel's side rod configuration.  Still, there's no guarantee that Mavis wouldn't face the same production cost and RRP issues Diesel faced, which leads me to keep my hopes for her at a minimum.

The Red Coaches:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasandfriends/images/7/71/PingyPongyPickUp55.png/revision/latest?cb=20180611131456)
It's really a question of why hasn't Bachmann considered doing these already when the tooling for them is practically there?  It's pretty simple just to alter the existing Annie/Clarabel tooling and recolor them.  When also considering chances of getting some express coaches for James are nil, the Red Coaches would be the next best thing.  Like I've mentioned before, people aren't just going to go out and buy 1 of each of these either.  In reality, most people would probably buy 2-3 coaches and 1 brake coach, similar to what the HO scale boys have done.  In all the Red Coaches should be in the 2019 announcements, as really they are in demand and can be produced without having to make a new tooling from scratch.

Troublesome Truck #3:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/cd/TheSpotlessRecord22.PNG/revision/latest?cb=20091107193357) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/1a/JourneyBeyondSodor33.png/revision/latest?cb=20180821000701)
As I stated earlier with the HO Troublesome Truck #6, a simple brown van with a face would suffice for this addition as well.  Personally the fact Bachmann hasn't jumped on this simple addition sooner is a mystery, as clearly they were able to pull this off with the Spiteful Brakevan.  I know for a fact, many would have rather seen another troublesome truck for Large Scale, rather than a Chocolate Syrup Tanker.  While we're on the topic of tankers (and I've mentioned this before as well), Bachmann could just make the next troublesome truck be a tanker with a face on it.  This would not only offer another troublesome truck to the range, but would also bring back the discontinued Oil Tanker to Large Scale as well.  This way, those who missed out on it before can have another chance at this addition without having to play hunt the trucks with Mavis. :D

Henrietta:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/0d/SignalsCrossed11.png/revision/latest?cb=20180803210514) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/74/HastyHannah25.png/revision/latest?cb=20180227200107)
I pretty much have my doubts on Henrietta (as I do on a lot of Large Scale ideas at this point), but I'm bringing her up for a good reason.  The last time Bachmann ever announced a new tooling for the range was back in 2015 when we got Winston and the Ice Cream Van, so surely after 4 years Bachmann can fudge out a new tooling?  Last year's announcements with the tanker recolors were just pitiful, and after that Bachmann is clearly treading on thin ice with Large Scale modelers.  Even if they just did Henrietta, this 1 piece of rolling stock could make up for the 3 mediocre pieces we were served up for 2018.  I'd even welcome the idea of Bachmann reusing the tooling for Hannah, if it means we can at least get Henrietta after such a long waiting period.  As it stands now, it's been 5 years since Toby was announced, and still Henrietta is MIA.

James, Emily, and Toby w/ DCC Sound:
These 3 additions honestly make the most sense in my opinion.  The models and the sound module are already there, so all Bachmann has to invest in is the cost of production to add the DCC Sound to the models.  Although the consumer could do this themselves, the cost and time to do the instillation (especially to all 5 existing models) is far more than just going out and buying them premade from the manufacture.  I've seen this play out with the existing Thomas and Percy models, and is why I'm hoping James, Emily, and Toby can one day come with DCC Sound on board as well.  Considering Large Scale announcements the last several years have been minimal and underwhelming, and when also considering Large Scale seems to be coming to an end, I think if Bachmann at least made these models and called it quits at that, the range would end on a positive note.

So before I conclude this post, the last thing to go over would be the probability of requested additions making it into the announcements.  Personally, as much as people would like to see a new engine character in both HO and Large Scale, chances of that happening are slim to none, regardless how you want to slice it.  Recolors or reintroductions seem to be the average additions to the announcements each year, which should be taken into consideration.  Narrow Gauge is the only range I have hope for at this point, and although announcements haven't been overwhelming, the range has been going steady the last few years compared to HO and Large Scale, which have been on a downhill decline. 

At the end of the day, these long and unrealistic wish lists are just people setting themselves up for disappointment when the announcements are made.  I think it's time we start thinking realistically about what Bachmann will do, instead of acting like a bunch of selfish kids saying "give me, give me, give me" every time announcements come around.  I too have hopes for certain additions to make it into the Thomas & Friends range, but at the same time I'm not going to anticipate the announcements like a kid on Christmas Eve.  As I said in a previous post, it's best to keep expectations low and not get hopes too high.

-Rusty

Maybe if they make a DCC Sound Large Scale Toby, that could give them a reason to finally make a Large Scale Henrietta. Maybe...

I haven't really been seeing people be all gimme gimme gimme which is good, but I think people are just covering all of the possible things Bachmann can do which isn't a bad thing. Healthy discussion is always welcome.

I'll be holding out hope for Stepney and Daisy in HO Scale but I won't be disappointed if they made Red Rosie instead. I'd like Original Thomas and Original James but I think it would be more fitting to save them for next year. Next year being the 75th anniversary where they'd make more sense.

My actual predictions for this year's announcements are hopeful but not ludicrous:
HO Scale:
-Stepney or Daisy. Either one could happen. Daisy's got the simplicity of her design going for her, whereas Stepney has his status as a small tank engine going for him. Both have major amounts of requests by fans going for them.

And/or

-Red Rosie. Honestly, recolors based on a previous special that Mattel's more than likely forgotten about seem less likely than a recolor of an engine into their current color scheme.
-Troublesome Truck #6. Either an Oil Tanker with a face, or a Brown Box Van with a face.
-Either reintroduced Red Express Coaches, or reintroduced Flat Car With Load. I'm mostly fine with just about any load they do for it.

HOn30 Scale:
-Peter Sam or Sir Handel. It's so close with how many people want one or the other that I can't really pick one based on which one is most requested.
-Brake Vans: Red, Blue, and Brown. More than likely going to happen, that it would honestly shock and dumbfound me if we didn't get them this year.

G Scale:
-Eeeeeeeeeehhhh...Maybe at least one newly DCC sound equipped locomotive?
-Either Troublesome Truck #3, which would likely be a repaint of either a tanker or a van with a face, or would just be another crappy gimmicky truck recolor.

Am I the only one who like the "crappy" rolling stock recolors. Idk why I just find them charming. I especially like the Toffee Tanker and I actually hope that's made in HO Scale. I can understand why others may not like them though.

As long as Peter Sam, Sir Handel, and some new rolling stock are added to the narrow gauge range I'm satisfied.

If we can't get Stepney or Daisy, I'd be okay getting Red Rosie, Green Thomas, or Black James in HO Scale, since the budget for a new tooling hasn't been very easy for Bachmann. As for Sidney, I don't hate him as a character, and I'd like him to be made eventually, but not this year, since we'd have a Class 08 announced on three consecutive years, which many people don't want to happen.

Regarding HO rolling stock, my most realistic wants are Troublesome Truck #6 being a tanker or ventilated van, and the Explosives Van, which still remains exclusive to Large Scale, unlike the Great Western and Fruit and Vegetable vans, which actually got HO Scale releases. The Explosives Van still hasn't been announced for HO Scale. Will this be the year? We'll find out next month.

It really is best not to expect too much from Bachmann, or you'd set yourself up for disappointment. That's exactly what happened last year when the announcements weren't what we expected. Bachmann Thomas announcements are only made once a year. Once they're posted, that's all until next year. Production costs, and the prices will only continue to rise, and there's nothing we can do about it.

Maybe Bachmann would have more room for toolings of engines people would actually buy, like Stepney or Daisy, if they don't put any more resources into things like Chuggington... I think an HO -and- an O scale line is quite enough, and I think the sales of each range are testament to that.

They could announce a flatbed with a pile of dust as a load for all I care as long as we get Stepney or Daisy with it, in all honesty.

And if they're gonna make more OO9 engines as a PR recently said, then by all means, please, do Sir Handel and Peter Sam.

Quote from: Plow Bender on January 14, 2019, 01:19:52 AM
Resin Buildings:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bf/Bulldog47.png/revision/latest?cb=20160123213854) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/7d/SpecialFunnel5.png/revision/latest?cb=20160117201434) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasthetankengineandfriendsclassic/images/6/6b/ABadDayForSirHandel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20170607015008)
I think resin buildings not only have a demand, but they would be far cheaper to produce than engines and comparable in price to rolling stock.  However, this doesn't apply to structures similar to Maithwaite Station or Brendam Warehouse.  What Bachmann should focus on are smaller structures like the Storage Shed.  I'm thinking more along the lines of structures such as the Narrow Gauge Engine Shed or the Ruined Castle.  One structure that sticks in mind and that I would kill to see, is the Workman's Cottage from the episode Bulldog.  Don't ask me why, but this is by far one of the most unique little structures and somewhat cute.  Wouldn't mind purchasing this little piece of real-estate for myself.  Another thing that should be noted is that resin buildings aimed towards Narrow Gauge could potentially have an increased number of sales compared to something like a Signal Gantry.  From a realistic standpoint, smaller structures seem wayyyyyyy more probable than something like the Steamworks or the Sodor Shipping Company.

I concur with everything stated by Plow Bender regarding what Bachmann should announce in 2019, but his resin building ideas stand out in my opinion. It definitely makes sense the continue the line with buildings that are narrow gauge themed as they are smaller and would sell better than bigger buildings like Brendam Warehouse. There are not many ruined castles and narrow gauge engine sheds out in the market after all. And I completely agree that Workman's Cottage is one of the most unique and cute structures. It speaks to the charm of the classic model series. Nothing more to add than that  :).

Here's a link to the episode for anyone who is curious: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UD3wTvwS_HQ

Here's my predictions for the 2019 Range:

Standard Gauge (HO/OO):
* Sidney
* Rosie (Red Livery)
* Stanley
* Daisy
* Samson
* Merlin
* Diesel 10
* Winston

Rolling Stock (HO/OO):
* Henrietta (w/Face)
* Hannah
* Rocky
* Bradford
* Judy & Jerome
* Sodor Works Unit Coach
* Troublesome Truck #6 (Vent Van)
* Troublesome Truck #7 (Oil Tanker)
* CGI-styled Milk Tanker
* CGI-styled Sodor Fuel Tanker
* Dexter (Red Coach Version)
* Aubrey & Aiden
* An An & Yin-Long
* Livestock Wagon (Grape Purple Livery)
* BR 20 Ton Brake Van
* W&LLR Brake Van

Non-Rail Characters:
* Trevor
* Butch
* Bulgy
* Ace
* Carly
* Big Mickey

Narrow Gauge Engines:
* Sir Handel
* Peter Sam

Narrow Gauge Rolling Stock:
* Brown Brake Van (Talyllyn Railway's No. 6 Guard's Van)
* Red Brake Van (Talyllyn Railway's No. 5 Guard's Van)
* Padann Railway Brake Van
* Slate Trucks (Type 2)

Resin Buildings:
* Ffarquhar Station
* Ffarquhar Sheds
* Wellsworth Station
* Wellsworth Sheds
* Wellsworth Railway Bridge
* The Watermill and Brick Bridge (Thomas' Branchline)
* Vicarstown Bridge
* Red Brick Bridge
* Skarloey Railway Engine Sheds
* Rheneas Station
* Rheneas Station Engine Sheds

Quote from: ThomasFan1993 on January 16, 2019, 03:19:40 PM
Here's my predictions for the 2019 Range:

Standard Gauge (HO/OO):
* Sidney
* Rosie (Red Livery)
* Stanley
* Daisy
* Samson
* Merlin
* Diesel 10
* Winston

Rolling Stock (HO/OO):
* Henrietta (w/Face)
* Hannah
* Rocky
* Bradford
* Judy & Jerome
* Sodor Works Unit Coach
* Troublesome Truck #6 (Vent Van)
* Troublesome Truck #7 (Oil Tanker)
* CGI-styled Milk Tanker
* CGI-styled Sodor Fuel Tanker
* Dexter (Red Coach Version)
* Aubrey & Aiden
* An An & Yin-Long
* Livestock Wagon (Grape Purple Livery)
* BR 20 Ton Brake Van
* W&LLR Brake Van

Non-Rail Characters:
* Trevor
* Butch
* Bulgy
* Ace
* Carly
* Big Mickey

Narrow Gauge Engines:
* Sir Handel
* Peter Sam

Narrow Gauge Rolling Stock:
* Brown Brake Van (Talyllyn Railway's No. 6 Guard's Van)
* Red Brake Van (Talyllyn Railway's No. 5 Guard's Van)
* Padann Railway Brake Van
* Slate Trucks (Type 2)

Resin Buildings:
* Ffarquhar Station
* Ffarquhar Sheds
* Wellsworth Station
* Wellsworth Sheds
* Wellsworth Railway Bridge
* The Watermill and Brick Bridge (Thomas' Branchline)
* Vicarstown Bridge
* Red Brick Bridge
* Skarloey Railway Engine Sheds
* Rheneas Station
* Rheneas Station Engine Sheds

Mega Facepalm. Geez, seriously? You can't be for real with this nonsensical and absolutely unrealistic list.

My predictions are as follows:

HO
No new engine
Explosives Van
Toffee Tanker

N Scale
Peter Sam
Red and Blue Brakevan
D. Fusit Wagon

G Scale
Another repaint, most likely a tanker
James w/ sound  

No new resin announcements

Hoping to be pleasantly surprised, though!

I definitely agree with most of the lists I have seen on here in general, Griffin's list in particular seems the most likely if Bachmann continues going on a smaller budget like last year (only I would personally replace the gunpowder wagons with brake vans but that's just me :P). I definitely enjoy the Plow Bender's post the most, and I am hoping that the large scale choices he mentioned get picked too.  Mavis in particular would look nice in large scale.  The only line I really have any hope for is narrow gauge, since they always seemed to have decent announcements for that range every year since they got announced.

Actually speaking of, while looking through some of the recent pages of this thread, I find it particularly interesting that not that many people are interested in a Duncan model. It's definitely expected because of how bad his CG render is, but it does make me want to ask a somewhat open question to everyone.  If it really came down to it, would you rather have a model of Duncan in his CG render, or one of the newer narrow gauge engines like Luke?

Quote from: Streak on January 14, 2019, 09:26:21 PM
Am I the only one who like the "crappy" rolling stock recolors. Idk why I just find them charming. I especially like the Toffee Tanker and I actually hope that's made in HO Scale. I can understand why others may not like them though.

From the way it appears, I'd have to say yes.  Ever since the announcements were made, no one was impressed with them, especially the large scale modelers who actually had hopes for something decent like a troublesome truck.  Like others have pointed out with the 2018 announcements, they were clearly more Mattel driven, which in turn left large scale with the short end of the stick and 3 tankers that no large scale collector even asked for.  Go back through the thread and I guarantee you won't find one positive thing about them.  Furthermore, ideas like this belong in the kiddie toy ranges, and should stay there.  Last time I checked, this is "Bachmann Trains", not "Fisher-Price Trackmaster"...

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on January 16, 2019, 05:41:25 PM
Mega Facepalm. Geez, seriously? You can't be for real with this nonsensical and absolutely unrealistic list.

I'm honestly willing to bet money that he is Mr. Rodimus.  Like I said in my previous post, these long and unrealistic wish lists are just people setting themselves up for disappointment when the announcements are made.  On that topic though, and in reply to Mr. Griffin's post, I personally feel his list seems even more realistic than mine.  The only thing I have my doubts on is the D. Fusit Wagon considering the fact brakevans seem to be in high demand at the moment, but I wouldn't throw the idea out completely.  Narrow Gauge could get just about anything (be it engines or rolling stock) and people would be happy with it, just as long as we don't get something mediocre like an ice cream van or Victor/Milly in the meantime.

Still, when you take a look at what announcements have been the last few years, they're pretty much all over the place.  That being the case, it really makes it hard to predict just what could have a chance as things can go in any direction between announcements.  Everyone pretty much said Arry and Bert for 2018 in Large Scale were inevitable (thanks to Diesel in 2017), yet after Diesel go kicked out the back door, so did that idea as well.  The same could probably be said for seeing Peter Sam in the 2018 lineup, considering Rusty had not yet been released.  Personally with the cost of everything going up anymore and production runs being cut shorter, it really leaves many starting to face the reality that manufactures honestly want to see that something is in high demand before they dump their assets into what could potentially be a flop.

Quote from: Cheeky_ULP on January 14, 2019, 10:54:16 PM
They could announce a flatbed with a pile of dust as a load for all I care as long as we get Stepney or Daisy with it, in all honesty.

(http://i66.tinypic.com/io401d.png)

In response to TerrencetheTractor525, I whole heartily agree your post as well.  Like I said before, I think Bachmann should make resin buildings aimed more towards Narrow Gauge, as it would boost their sales compared to doing something like a workmen's hut for example.  One thing I did forgot to bring up in my previous post was that it would be nice to see some houses amongst the resin buildings line as well, similar to the ideas that Mr. TerrencetheTractor brought up in one of his posts.  Example below.

(http://i67.tinypic.com/xbfnn4.png)

Another idea I thought of was maybe Bachmann could look into some of the narrow gauge stations as well, considering they would again be smaller structures aimed towards the Narrow Gauge range.  I know someone did bring up the Sodor Manor (which I'm all for BTW) and I can also say I wouldn't mind seeing the other surrounding structures as well.  Still the Workman's Cottage is on the top of my must get list if it gets announced.  Does anyone else have any idea's for other small structures Bachmann could introduce for Narrow Gauge/HO for 2019?

-Rusty

Ok Plow Blender, I don't get this. Why do you think the rolling stock recolors were Mattel's idea? Why would Mattel want Bachmann to make tankers based on random Trackmaster toys from 2009. That's 9 years ago! I'm pretty sure Bachmann just wanted to make something low effort for the Large Scale theme but still something that fits with the Thomas style. So they just looked up random tankers/tanker toys from the Thomas Wikia and went from there. Why else would they make the fricken Toffee Tanker? A thing from Season 11? Do you really think Mattel would ask them to make an obscure tanker from 11 seasons ago? I know people have this vendetta against Mattel but we can't blame them for everything guys.  ::)

Honestly if you ask me, I haven't seen Bachmann make a single Mattel influenced thing at all. Everything seems like something that they themselves decided to make. If Mattel was really running the show, we'd get a Bubble Machine Car, a Streamlined Gordon, and a Racing Stripes Thomas. Junk like that.

Quote from: Chaz on January 16, 2019, 11:23:14 PM
I definitely agree with most of the lists I have seen on here in general, Griffin's list in particular seems the most likely if Bachmann continues going on a smaller budget like last year (only I would personally replace the gunpowder wagons with brake vans but that's just me :P). I definitely enjoy the Plow Bender's post the most, and I am hoping that the large scale choices he mentioned get picked too.  Mavis in particular would look nice in large scale.  The only line I really have any hope for is narrow gauge, since they always seemed to have decent announcements for that range every year since they got announced.

Actually speaking of, while looking through some of the recent pages of this thread, I find it particularly interesting that not that many people are interested in a Duncan model. It's definitely expected because of how bad his CG render is, but it does make me want to ask a somewhat open question to everyone.  If it really came down to it, would you rather have a model of Duncan in his CG render, or one of the newer narrow gauge engines like Luke?

For some reason I had thought brake vans had already been released. I'd say in that case they're far more likely.

Bachmann needs to run on a budget, so it's understandable if rolling recolors continue to be announced. The question to be asked is: would something no one asked for such as a bubble tanker get announced  ::)? Or, would some quality pieces such as Troublesome Truck #3 be announced instead? I wonder if the reason why Troublesome Truck #3 was not announced in large scale is that there is no cattle wagon tooling to base it off the HO model. Considering that the HO and large scale rolling stock with the same product name have not always been identical (the water tanker is a great example of this), Troublesome Truck #3 does not have to be a cattle wagon.

Quote from: Plow Bender on January 16, 2019, 11:53:03 PM
In response to TerrencetheTractor525, I whole heartily agree your post as well.  Like I said before, I think Bachmann should make resin buildings aimed more towards Narrow Gauge, as it would boost their sales compared to doing something like a workmen's hut for example.  One thing I did forgot to bring up in my previous post was that it would be nice to see some houses amongst the resin buildings line as well, similar to the ideas that Mr. TerrencetheTractor brought up in one of his posts.  Example below.

(http://i67.tinypic.com/xbfnn4.png)

Another idea I thought of was maybe Bachmann could look into some of the narrow gauge stations as well, considering they would again be smaller structures aimed towards the Narrow Gauge range.  I know someone did bring up the Sodor Manor (which I'm all for BTW) and I can also say I wouldn't mind seeing the other surrounding structures as well.  Still the Workman's Cottage is on the top of my must get list if it gets announced.  Does anyone else have any idea's for other small structures Bachmann could introduce for Narrow Gauge/HO for 2019?

-Rusty

I'm all for those structures too  :). As for any other ideas pertaining to narrow gauge, Neptune Refreshments is popular structure that has been brought up multiple times. Here's a link to the page in which I discuss this building in more depth: https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34707.15.html

You're absolutely right TerencetheTractor525. If Bachmann are low on budget and can't make all the unique rolling stock items we want, it's totally fine to add these recolored pieces. Granted, I think Bachmann shouldn't make a Bubble Tanker. That's too goofy and unrealistic for this line. (It seems like every time a Thomas line busts out the bubbles, it's a travesty.)

i believe there is potential with the recolor aproach. I've said it before and I'll say it again that the Brown Mail Van would be amazing! And besides there's also Jam Tankers, Dieselworks Tankers, Fireworks Vans, Chocolate Factory Vans, various Circus Trucks, various open wagons with special loads, and even recolor characters like Bradford and Hannah that are cheep easy options for Bachmann to get out content that can fill the void. I do hope however if they have the budget to make something new like Old Slow Coach, Hector, or Large Scale T. Truck #3, they would take the initiative to make that instead of recolors.

On the subject of Resign Buildings, I really hope we get some new ones for Thomas this year. Bachmann UK making new ones gives me a little more hope that it'll happen but I don't want to get too excited.

Quote from: Streak on January 17, 2019, 01:10:06 AM
I know people have this vendetta against Mattel but we can't blame them for everything guys.  ::)

The Thomas and friends brand is owned by Mattel, so any decisions that apply to either of the Thomas ranges whether it's suggestions (from fans or suggestions from Mattel themselves), revisions, or any licensing, Bachmann has to go by them with Mattel.  Did anyone on this forum actually ask for some of the rolling stock recolors that are in question like the Diesel co tanker, the chocolate syrup tanker or even a green mail car and refidgerator car with lobster decals before they got announced? ... Didn't think so.

The recolors themselves are harmless since they don't really cost anything since they are the same tooling.  At the same time though, that doesn't necessarily mean that they are doing that much good if not a lot of people are raving over them or wanting to buy them if all they are going to do is just take up space if not a lot of sales are coming their way.  That being said, I don't really see Bachmann stopping anytime soon with them since our buddies at Mattel love looking for cheap ways to make money.  Sadly, I wouldn't rule out a bubble car or anything else along those lines in the future.

Deep breaths, Streak... calm yourself...  We're dealing with model trains not missals here governor...

Although I can't provide a reason that Mattel would push for these recolors (nor do I want to...), the point is that regardless they are the ones behind what Bachmann can and cannot do, and therefore everything has to meet their approval before anything gets announced.  I could probably elaborate a little more on this, but considering I feel I'm already wasting my time trying to explain what little I am, I'll leave it at that.

The only advantage Bachmann had over the tanker recolors was that the tooling for said models was already there.  I'll bet cash money Bachmann wouldn't be so reckless as to make 3 tanker recolors that wouldn't sell when clearly there was more demand for something like Red Coaches.  Even something like Fred Pelhay and/or Rickety for crying out loud would sell better than the 3 tanker recolors put together.   I'm sure many large scale collectors (myself included) would definitely be interested in buying both of those just for the sake of having more trucks.  Besides, you're the one who has hopes for them to have another go in HO, so why not Large Scale as well?

Furthermore, I highly doubt Bachmann would do something as childish as referring to the Wikia pages to get ideas, and then pick out some of the worst ones they could find.  As is they already have an entire forum dedicated to the discussion of fans stating what they would like to see added to the range, and yes Bachmann does in fact listen to what the fans want.  In addition to that, bringing up ideas like a Bubble Machine Car, Streamlined Gordon, and/or Racing Stripes Thomas is just ridiculous.  Mattel is already screwing things up as is, don't give them any ideas.

And lastly, this isn't the first time Mattel has pushed for mediocre additions like this, and regardless what you say/think, Mattel has influenced many things Bachmann has announced such as Rosie, the HO tankers from last year, the green mail car, and the lobster logo on the refrigerator car just to name a few.  I don't know why everything with you has to turn into an argument every time someone says something bad about Mattel or the franchise in general.  Just because you like rainbows and kittens doesn't mean the rest of us have to.  Check and mate...  ::)

-Rusty

Bachmann is probably making wagons from the Trackmaster lines, as well as making up their own colorful wagons because they already milked the fairly normal-looking wagons years ago. The salt van, the M wagon, coal wagon, blue wagon, etc. were all wagons that were already in the show, and Bachmann for the most part, has blown through every option possible. The only thing I haven't really seen them do is...
- Flat Bed with different loads
- Container flat wagon with different loads (could repurpose the crate from the Christmas set easily)
- Dark brown or black variations of the vent vans, open wagons, and Mail Car
- Circus Train (the most surprising, to me)

It's no surprise Bachmanns making up their own stuff when they've already made rolling stock of most things in the show. Anything else would basically require a whole new tooling (like the Works Unit). Unless Bachmann suddenly feels a valid reason to make new toolings that are more accurate to the way items are in the show (and if they do, get ready for CGI proportioned wagons instead of Season 1-12, which would be better proportioned, but minor details like that get lost when you're adapting a kids shows content into toys for a strictly business reason)

Basically, don't expect much interesting OO wagons for a long time, if ever again. Bachmanns best bet to keep things fresh and interesting is trucks with model era-style Troublesome Truck faces. CGI faces just aren't as interesting or expressive, and don't hold a niche collectors interest.

There's plenty of building ideas, and I still stand by the ones I've mentioned before:

Quote from: Cheeky_ULP on March 24, 2018, 03:40:27 PM
These are all very interesting choices. One thing I was wanting to bring up in the future was the importance of whether buildings need to be resin or plastic. Resin buildings do look much better and much more accurate, but they are also more expensive to make and sell. I think if the smaller accessories like the water tower were made of plastic, it would be fine, but I feel like bigger buildings like stations, sheds, and warehouses come out looking better visually when they're made with resin.

It's a shame that it seems Bachmann has narrowed down on resin buildings, but I would still like to see a few more made. It makes me wonder if the initial resin buildings didn't sell well, hence the lack of a third round.

Sheds:
We definitely could use a narrow gauge shed. I'd agree that any narrow gauge shed would be acceptable, but my personal preference would be the ones from Season 4:
(http://i68.tinypic.com/33mncc9.png)

Castle:
I'll echo the ruined castle as well. Those are a classic icon of Thomas imagery, and representation in the range would be highly welcome. While there are many ruined castles you can buy from any store, the Thomas ones always had a unique design that resonated with my mind.

Retaining Wall:
I like the idea of a retaining wall; I think if they wanted to go for something that has a distinctly "Thomas" design, they should make the retaining walls seen throughout the early seasons:
(http://oi64.tinypic.com/anomj7.jpg)
The show practically already designed the product here! You can see where it cuts off after 4 arches. Customers could thus be allowed to decide how many segments they want their wall to extend by buying more segments as they wish. I also always liked how this particular wall segment had a roof-like piece to it, making it even taller, and adding to that uniquely Thomas "look." (most likely to hide parts of the sets back then).

Stations:
Ffarquhuar Station also seems like a no-brainer. It's the most iconic station in the show next to Knapford, having been on the introduction seen on nearly every VHS and many DVDs.

I'm more surprised you didn't mention Dryaw Station instead of Callan Station; Dryaw would have a higher chance, since it has appeared in CGI in many episodes lately. Bachmann also already made the Nissen shed, as well as Harold who would go nicely next to Dryaw. This would also give Bachmann a chance to make a footbridge and additional platforms, in a similar vein that Hornby did their own Dryaw. The Round water tower is also at the back of Dryaw, so it'd be yet another item already in the Thomas range that could tie it all together.
(http://i64.tinypic.com/2dbnnkn.png)

The Signal Gantry:
I've made many posts before about the Signal Gantry, and I'd agree it belongs in the range as well. I wrote about it in greater detail in a previous post:

Quote from: Sparks on October 21, 2017, 02:35:13 AM
I would like to see the Signal Gantry Junction personally:
(http://i67.tinypic.com/2aewmmf.png)

In CGI, it has a four track and a three track variation. The difference is how many arches/poles it has:
(http://i67.tinypic.com/259ab9g.png)
(http://i68.tinypic.com/2nc3od0.png)

Both versions appear in various scenes up to Season 21. Personally, I prefer the four track variation, where it only has two passage ways (as per the model picture), as it has been around in that form since the Classic Series. The 3 passage way version was introduced in Season 17.

I think overall... A narrow gauge shed, a ruined castle, Ffarquhaur or Dryaw, and a signal gantry ties in to a nice 4-6 or so products to focus on for a future year. That's where I'll stop for now, until I get more ideas.

Quote from: Streak on January 17, 2019, 03:32:15 PM
You're absolutely right TerencetheTractor525. If Bachmann are low on budget and can't make all the unique rolling stock items we want, it's totally fine to add these recolored pieces. Granted, I think Bachmann shouldn't make a Bubble Tanker. That's too goofy and unrealistic for this line. (It seems like every time a Thomas line busts out the bubbles, it's a travesty.)

i believe there is potential with the recolor aproach. I've said it before and I'll say it again that the Brown Mail Van would be amazing! And besides there's also Jam Tankers, Dieselworks Tankers, Fireworks Vans, Chocolate Factory Vans, various Circus Trucks, various open wagons with special loads, and even recolor characters like Bradford and Hannah that are cheep easy options for Bachmann to get out content that can fill the void. I do hope however if they have the budget to make something new like Old Slow Coach, Hector, or Large Scale T. Truck #3, they would take the initiative to make that instead of recolors.

On the subject of Resign Buildings, I really hope we get some new ones for Thomas this year. Bachmann UK making new ones gives me a little more hope that it'll happen but I don't want to get too excited.

Bachmann releasing a van with a brown livery and no other selling point (face, logo) would be disastrous for their sales. It'll never happen, even with the huge profit margin that they gain from repaints.

I doubt there are more than maybe a few hundred "serious" Thomas modellers out there, and even fewer who make their voices heard by Bachmann on here or anywhere else. I think we tend to overestimate our influence on their year-to-year productmaking decisions with the Thomas line.

Quote from: Griffin on January 17, 2019, 08:47:08 PM
Bachmann releasing a van with a brown livery and no other selling point (face, logo) would be disastrous for their sales. It'll never happen, even with the huge profit margin that they gain from repaints.

I mean... Not really... Classic series fans would probably buy it up in a heart beat as it would basically be like the Brown Utility Vans from the show. And despite that, Bachmann has not only released a tanker with no logos (Toffee Tanker) but also a Mail Van recolor with no logos (Green Mail Van). I doubt that a Brown Mail Van would sell less than the awful Green Mail Van and I extremely doubt that one recolor would be "disastrous" to Bachmann's sales.

Quote from: douglas on January 17, 2019, 08:50:12 PM
I doubt there are more than maybe a few hundred "serious" Thomas modellers out there, and even fewer who make their voices heard by Bachmann on here or anywhere else. I think we tend to overestimate our influence on their year-to-year productmaking decisions with the Thomas line.

That's a very good point right there. We do have some influence it seems with some things (like how Grumpy Diesel was in a way used to fix a complaint fans had with the original model), but the fact is we really don't represent the full audience of this range. I don't know how much Bachmann takes into account the people on Twitter and other services.

Quote from: Streak on January 17, 2019, 05:36:16 PM
Yes they have to get approved from Mattel but it's not like Mattel specifically said to make Rosie, Green Mail Car, the Tankers, and whatever. You cannot prove that without hard evidence. You can't just say everything Bachmann does that you or others don't like is solely because of Mattel.

Mattel owns Thomas and Friends, Bachmann has to go with what they want or in some cases, earn their approval on certain ideas and requests they get from fans.  And of course we can say it was Mattel's idea for the stuff that came out that no one asked for, that's literally who would be the ones requesting them in the first place!  Even the announcements that won older fans over like the Spiteful brake van, they still had to be approved by Mattel too.

If you want "hard evidence", I would encourage you to talk to literally any representative at Bachmann Trains if they are at a show in your area.  They are nice people and passionate about the hobby as much as the next guy.  They can tell you that there is a surprising amount of politics regarding the manufacturing in China as well as the licensing, negotiations and even the pricing that is made with Mattel in regards to what gets announced.  You would be surprised how much time and energy is behind making Thomas models compared to non-Thomas locomotives despite being cheaper and made with a more simple audience in mind.  

I don't doubt that both Bachmann as well as Mattel want to try to appeal to both older fans as well as attract the younger demographic.  That by itself is not only important to the Thomas brand itself, but also the hobby of model trains in general.  But if people on this forum see something a little random or different from what people have discussed on here, they naturally think it's a request from Mattel, again because they are in charge of the Thomas brand at this time.  

Finally, as much as I don't want to get into the little "patronizing" moment with you and Plow Bender, I have to admit that both he and Alex are right in regards to his suggesting of calming down a little bit too.  The way you have been expressing your views here has come off as a little too strong which keeps resulting in the countless arguments you've gotten yourself into with users on this forum, including me.  There's nothing wrong with having different views from one another, or even just having the unpopular opinion in general, but there is something wrong with the way how you have been communicating your views here on this forum, otherwise this wouldn't be a regular thing for you.  So please stop getting so worked up over things like this, not only is it tiring, but it's starting to make the environment on this forum become toxic.

Considering Mattel's current marketing practices and Bachmann's track record, I really don't expect Stepney or Daisy entering the range. (At least for the time being.)

The fact that we haven't seen toys about Stepney for quite some time now, and with merch for the likes of Nia and Rebecca churned out, I doubt we would see him, even though we've seen merch for Flying Scotsman but that's another story. As for Daisy, while it's a really great thing that she was given character development that kinda was a missed opportunity in the entire model era, and she as was also given lot of screentime and portrayal compared to many of the characters that are currently in the show. Where is the merch for her?
Mattel would most likely favor Nia and Rebecca over Stepney and Daisy, of course we all know what the likely response would be if they happen if they're announced for Bachmann.

Then again, are we even going to see Stepney in CGI, with the new direction of the show?

I understand that Bachmann listens to it's consumers, and it's now doubt that Stepney and Daisy would be successful, but at the same time Mattel's standards seems to be a handicap for them.

The fact that they made the Spiteful Brakevan is seriously a blessing. A classic character who was officially killed off.

However, I'm aware that I'm the minority here, but I do think Ryan would the best character to meet a happy compromise.
Think about it he's a CGI character yes but at the same time he feels like one that would fit in the classic series, a widely appealing character to both younger and older fans alike, and he would bring color contrast to the range. Plus there's a catch seeing how Daisy and Ryan make up a duo. It would increase a demand for Daisy which would already be considered superfluous. When we got Duck, there was a demand for Oliver.

Overall if we get a new engine with new tooling for HO/OO, Ryan is my best anticipation, if he happens to be announced I actually wouldn't mind picking him up.

That's my two cents.

I'd like to hear your thoughts.

P.S. I know I haven't posted for awhile, but I work long hours, I will perhaps comment on NG Range later.

Conversely, I'd say that Bachmann doing The Spiteful Brake Van is proof that they could do Stepney despite him not being in the CGI series.

I would almost agree except the Spiteful Brakevan a.) was already in large scale, so they had the face mold for HO already and b.) wasn't a new tooling to begin with for either the HO or G scale range. Stepney meets neither of these requirements, plus is a fully-fledged locomotive rather than a simple piece of rolling stock.

Dumb question, but... official announcements when?

Quote from: douglas on January 20, 2019, 03:35:23 PM
Dumb question, but... official announcements when?

February 15th

Also, if we get another character who is considered marketable by Mattel standards, I could definitely see Ryan having a shot. He still has a good number of merchandise coming his way and is very popular with both the older and younger audiences. Might be a little more pricey than most characters Bachmann has made recently, but I think Bachmann could pull him off.

That being said, I'm still fairly skeptical if we get a new tooling in HO at this point so there's that much going against Ryan or any other character that requires a new tooling.

Quote from: Chaz on January 20, 2019, 04:04:47 PM

Quote from: douglas on January 20, 2019, 03:35:23 PM
Dumb question, but... official announcements when?

February 15th

Thanks bud. Crossing my fingers for Peter Sam and/or Sir Handel to round out the "Four Little Engines".

I just remembered something. Bachmann COULD do a brown/black mail van if they wanted to, because there was briefly a brown/black mail van with a Troublesome Truck face seen in the show before. I could've sworn there was one in Toad Stands By, But I can only find a pic at this link from a different episode: http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Troublesome_Trucks

Quote from: Metal on January 19, 2019, 11:57:02 PM
However, I'm aware that I'm the minority here, but I do think Ryan would the best character to meet a happy compromise.
Think about it he's a CGI character yes but at the same time he feels like one that would fit in the classic series, a widely appealing character to both younger and older fans alike, and he would bring color contrast to the range. Plus there's a catch seeing how Daisy and Ryan make up a duo. It would increase a demand for Daisy which would already be considered superfluous. When we got Duck, there was a demand for Oliver.

Overall if we get a new engine with new tooling for HO/OO, Ryan is my best anticipation, if he happens to be announced I actually wouldn't mind picking him up.

That's my two cents.

I'd like to hear your thoughts.

While I do agree that Ryan is probably the best CGI option as far as a new HO loco is concerned, I still believe that if Bachmann is going to announce a new loco with a new tooling in HO, the next one should be Daisy or Stepney, especially after seeing the Fall 2018 TCA video. Ryan would indeed be a good seller, but Daisy and Stepney would be great sellers. It's basically the difference between the sales of Duck or Oliver (classic characters) and Paxton (strong CGI character). Perhaps if Bachmann were to announce Daisy or Stepney first, their strong sales would increase the chances of them announcing Ryan afterwards? Thoughts?

However, I still concur with Chaz on that a new loco in HO for this year is unlikely.

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on January 21, 2019, 12:02:53 PM
I just remembered something. Bachmann COULD do a brown/black mail van is they wanted to, because there was briefly a brown/black mail van with a Troublesome Truck face seen in the show before. I could've sworn there was one in Toad Stands By, But I can only find a pic at this link from a different episode: http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Troublesome_Trucks

Oliver Owns Up  :). It would be interesting to see Bachmann pull off a troublesome mail car, but I think that the next one should be a tanker or ventilated van.

Only three more weeks before the 2019 announcements get posted. Once they're posted, that's it until 2020.

Despite keeping my expectations low to avoid disappointment, I cannot wait to see what Bachmann has planned :) I'm personally hoping for a Narrow Gauge Brakevan and possibly Sir Handel or Peter Sam.

The way I see it, if any range is going to make out this year (or at least do better than the rest) it's going to be Narrow Gauge for sure.  I agree with what Mr. Griffin said earlier on in this thread, and I could see Large Scale and HO just getting mediocre recolors again.  I still have hopes that Bachmann is keeping a couple highly asked for announcements in their back pocket, but I'm not going to get too excited.  In all I can honestly say I'm looking forward to the 2019 announcements, as I am curious just how good and/or bad they're going to be.

-Rusty

I don't want to keep my expectations too high, since I want to avoid disappointment, like what happened last year. The budget for new toolings hasn't been very good lately, so we'll most likely get nothing but mediocre recolors for HO Scale. If we get an engine recolor, it will most likely be either Red Rosie, or Sidney. I know a lot of people wouldn't be happy with Sidney getting announced this year, since that would mean getting a Class 08 three years in a row, but personally, if Sidney does get announced, I would be accepting of it. Paxton's face had to be modified slightly in order to fit on Diesel's eye mechanism. Otherwise, they would've had to severely change the internals of the model. They will certainly do the same for Sidney. Since he has a rounded face, his face will also have a painted border around it.

Sidney should definitely be the last Class 08 we'd get for HO Scale. No chance they would make Splatter and Dodge, due to being one-off characters from a movie that wasn't even good. As for the mainland diesels, they don't even have names (except for Ulli) or actual personalities.

Getting a new tooling in HO Scale, like Stepney or Daisy, would be a blessing, but to avoid disappointment, I shouldn't get my hopes up for them.

As for HO Rolling Stock, I'd be okay as long as we get the Explosives Van, and/or Troublesome Truck #6 being a ventilated van, tanker, or even a mail car.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on January 26, 2019, 03:45:11 PMNo chance they would make Splatter and Dodge, due to being one-off characters from a movie that most Thomas fans that the range is aimed at haven't even heard of, let alone watched.

fixed
it's been 18 1/2 years since Magic Railroad debuted in theaters. that's older than most younger T&F modellers, and definitely older than >98% of active Thomas fans. it was so poorly received even among the fanbase that many have just memory-holed it. this is a useless factoid but I just wanted to emphasize how terrible and irrelevant T&tMRR is.

Quote from: douglas on November 28, 1974, 04:13:53 AM
it's been 18 1/2 years since Magic Railroad debuted in theaters.

I feel old just hearing that. (Same with Hero of the Rails turning 10 this year...:P)

But yeah I think Splatter, Dodge and even the mainland diesels are irrelevant and not even worth mentioning at this point.  Bachmann's used the Diesel tooling quite enough, and after how Paxton turned out part of me feels like Sidney would look even worse than Paxton if they stick with the same eye mechanism method from earlier.

That's the first time I've noticed someone change my words.

But yeah, it's possible that Sidney might look even worse. The mainland diesels have no promotion or marketing going their way, and absolutely no merchandise of them whatsoever, so it's safe to rule them out. The announcements for HO might be as underwhelming as ever, but I'm still curious to see just how good or bad the products will be. Just three more weeks.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on January 27, 2019, 04:06:46 PMThat's the first time I've noticed someone change my words.

It wasn't a knock on you, mate. I just wanted to emphasize how terrible TatMR is in retrospect, at least in my eyes.

If Bachman wants to do something good we should get Thomas and Percy released with DCC and sound onboard. They wouldn't have to use new tooling just new inner worksings and wiring. I just hope that they can get something out this year. I'm really hoping we get troublesome truck 6. It's highly likely we will. As for HO narrow gauge. I'm really looking forward to seeing Sir Handle or Peter Sam being announced. Can't wait for Rusty to get released. Anyways hope this doesn't disappoint this year. Someone comment if you wanna discuss. It's time I get involved it's been sometime.

Has anyone seen this picture before https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DGzgdpGXoAA6rsS?format=jpg&name=large, I believe Sidney would definitely be the next engine to be made plus they can even adjust the border.

Hey guys, I just had a thought about how they could make the green and cream open coaches from the Skarloey Railway and have them be a fresh idea so they aren't just like the red and blue carriages. They could release a couple different versions of the coach with different faces, like the ones from season 4 and have them labelled something like "Happy Carriage" or "Angry Carriage" for example. They would also be something completely different for the range because they would be the first narrow gauge rolling stock with faces. They would also bring some Season 4 nostalgia into the narrow gauge range even further than the Blue Carriage will. I don't think they should be considered for 2019, but maybe a few years down the line, if the range is still going, they could do something like this. Do you guys think that would be a good idea for the future? Would you guys buy them if Bachmann made them? Which of the facial expressions would you want to see, if they don't do all of them?

Quote from: Trainboy 48 on January 31, 2019, 06:48:32 PM
Has anyone seen this picture before https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DGzgdpGXoAA6rsS?format=jpg&name=large, I believe Sidney should would definitely be the next engine to be made plus they can even adjust the border.

Oh dear God no, please be photoshop...

It's now officially February, and the 2019 Bachmann Thomas announcements are only two weeks away.

We may get Sidney, or preferably for recolors, Red Rosie. I'd still be okay with Sidney, but I get that everyone is sick of the Diesel tooling. I just got Paxton yesterday, and I think he's a great model. The only reason Grumpy Diesel was made was because of the complaints regarding Diesel's face looking too friendly for his character, and now his model exists with a more villainous face that better suits his character. The most popular request for a recolor is Red Rosie. There's also Green Thomas and Black James from The Adventure Begins, which are other examples of recolors Bachmann can easily do.

We'd be lucky to actually get a new tooling for HO Scale, especially if it's Stepney or Daisy.

I latter have the narrow gauge coaches have no faces. To follow the CGI version of them of being normal coaches.

Quote from: angelob6660 on February 01, 2019, 04:33:47 PM
I latter have the narrow gauge coaches have no faces. To follow the CGI version of them of being normal coaches.

The green and cream narrow gauge coaches have never been seen in the CGI Series, and therefore, it would not be inaccurate for them to be released with faces in the future. It would also help bring variety into the rolling stock range if they were made with faces.

The following is a list of characters I don't expect for this year for HO Scale.

Norman is a long shot, especially due to the fact that he's severely underused in the show. He did contribute to the plot in The Great Race by getting involved in Thomas' crash, but still remains severely underused in the show itself. I fail to understand why he very rarely speaks in the show, nor has he ever had a starring role. Sidney used to be in a similar state, until a few years ago when he started making regular appearances and speaking roles. Sidney even had a few starring roles. The real question is, when will Norman get his time to shine? Mattel hasn't made a single toy of him since their takeover, which also really doesn't help. Unlike Paxton and Sidney, Norman requires a completely new tooling. Despite his lack of roles, I still would love to see him get made one day in the future, since at least he's a diesel shunter that isn't a Class 08, but I know he's very unlikely, until he gets more roles.

Other examples of diesel shunters that aren't Class 08s include Den and Dart, which are also models I don't expect this year. They're not frequently talked about on the forum either. Both diesels obviously require new toolings. Den would be fine, but Dart's only issue is his tiny size. Dart is small enough to the point to where even open wagons tower over him. In order for Bachmann to make Dart, they would have to scale him up to accommodate an eye mechanism, motor, and couplings on both ends.

On the topic of characters I DO expect for HO Scale, the list includes:

Stepney
Daisy
Sidney
Red Rosie

With the announcements coming up, which one of them will it be, if we do get an engine? Will it even be one of those four? Only time will tell... Stepney has a unique livery. Daisy would be the first bogied diesel in the range. Sidney might infuriate some people. Red Rosie might sell better than her model with the old livery.

I'd kill for a Bachmann Stepney, the sales would undoubtedly be through the roof. But like you said, it's best to keep expectations low. That said, I'm personally rather looking forward to seeing what is announced this year and the general response :)

Bachmann has certainly surprised us in the past (who the heck thought we'd get Rosie that one year??) but yeah, my expectations aren't high at all. The only model I would buy without question at this point is Stepney or the (reintroduced) flatbed. Anything else is a hard pass.

The last engine to be made with a new tooling in HO Scale was Rosie, who was announced in 2016. Since no engine is currently on the backburner, this could be the year we get another new tooling. If it's a new tooling, it better be one that fans asked for. Some people actually did ask for Rosie prior to her getting announced. Aside from Stepney and Daisy, another example of a new tooling that's occasionally asked for is Stanley, who's a tank engine with a unique white livery. I'd be okay with getting Stanley, but he's not really a "hype" character like Oliver was. Oliver was a big deal for numerous reasons, who was announced in 2015, alongside a recolor that nobody cared about, which was Celebration Thomas for the 70th Anniversary. Oliver was released in Spring 2017 after getting delayed a number of times. Stepney and Daisy have the most popular demand, and like I've said in the past, popular demand is what gave us Duck, and Oliver.

Either we get a new tooling, or we get another recolor like Sidney or Red Rosie. Either way, it's best to keep expectations low.

If Stanley was to be announced by Bachmann, I would do everything in my power to get him. He's my favorite character in the whole series and I would flip out if he was made.

I still think that Stepney, Daisy, or even Ryan have better chances as new models at least at this time though. They could just do recolors like Red Rosie which I'd tolerate. Either way, I don't want to get my hopes up on anything or get too hyped for these announcements but I'm sure that whatever Bachmann 2019 lineup is, it will have something good in it at least.

Still a few weeks before the announcements get posted, and Bachmann has given us a little sneak peek of what's to come later this year, which is a new Christmas-themed Thomas set. There's no picture of it yet, but we might see it in the 2019 catalog. Hopefully, the Narrow Gauge Coaches will also have images in the catalog. Rusty should arrive within the next month or so. I really hope another Narrow Gauge engine gets announced this year. Most likely Peter Sam.

Should be good. I would not be surprised if we just got Peter Sam. :)

Looking at the other announcement made so far (the Golden Spike themed set), this year seems like it might be a bit small compared to last year, but it definitely seems promising.

Quote from: TrainMan2001 on February 05, 2019, 11:01:11 PM
Looking at the other announcement made so far (the Golden Spike themed set), this year seems like it might be a bit small compared to last year, but it definitely seems promising.

I second that.

Here are my final predictions for this year before the toy fair while not getting my hopes up.

HO:

Engines
Reintroduced Salty
Sidney
or
Red Rosie

Rolling Stock
Reintroduced Flatbed
Troublesome Truck #6
Explosives Van
Hopper Wagon (With Load)

Vehicles
Trevor

Narrow Gauge
Peter Sam or Sir Handel
NG Brakevans
BMQ wagons

Here's my updated predictions for this year, also not getting hopes up:

HO Scale:
Sidney or Red Rosie
Explosives Van
Troublesome Truck #6 (tanker or ventilated van)
Red Express Coaches (reintroduction)

Narrow Gauge:
Peter Sam
Blue, Red and Brown Brake Vans

Large Scale:
Red Coaches

Hello I'm a new member

For the standard gauge the following I would like one of the following:
Daisy, Harvey, Whiff, Stephen or Hiro.
Hector, James' Express Coaches, a new form of Troublesome Truck, maybe a truck with scrap (for 'Arry & Bert) or waste (if they make a Whiff in standard gauge.
Trevor, Jack or George.

For Narrow Gauge, if they made George, then Sir Handel would be perfect, but I would rather see Peter Sam.
For rolling stock, it would be great to see a break van and the D Fusit Gunpowder wagons.

The Orange Branch Line Coaches, which were only in Seasons 1 and 2, were basically unlettered and faceless versions of Annie and Clarabel. Bachmann has made the Red Coaches in HO Scale, but I'm not sure if they'd ever do an Orange Coach, due to last appearing in Season 2. Right now, the coaches we have for HO Scale are Annie, Clarabel, Henrietta, the Special Coach, Emily's Coaches, Red Coaches, and the Express Coaches (reintroduction). A regular orange coach sounds like another idea. It would be another classic series rolling stock, like the Spiteful Brake Van, and also something that can be easily made with an existing tooling.

As long as they reintroduce the flatbed in some way, I will be happy.

Recently I thought of making some orange branch line coaches. From Annie and Clarabel but I was second guessing on how to get the noses off and painted names. If Bachmann does make them I'll get 3-5 of them.

Has anyone noticed it's been 8 years since they came out with a new tender engine? Maybe they'll make a character with a tender that nobody is expecting?

Why are you guys saying the orange branch line coaches didn't have faces? The episodes with them showed they have faces. At least they are implied to, what with the close ups of faces and all.

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on February 07, 2019, 07:30:02 PM
Why are you guys saying the orange branch line coaches didn't have faces? The episodes with them showed they have faces. At least they are implied to, what with the close ups of faces and all.

If you're talking about the close-ups of the coaches' faces from the episode James Learns a Lesson, you'll find that James actually IS pulling Annie and Clarabel as part of his passenger train. You can see their names on their sides. The other three coaches were unlettered and faceless.

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on February 07, 2019, 07:30:02 PM
Why are you guys saying the orange branch line coaches didn't have faces? The episodes with them showed they have faces. At least they are implied to, what with the close ups of faces and all.

Well as Mr. Trainfan already pointed out, the coaches which had faces were Annie and Clarabel.  The other 3 coaches are actually the Old Coaches, just flipped around with the green and cream livery on the opposite side.  You can also tell from the positioning of the windows that they're clearly not LB&SCR Stroudley coaches.  Due to budget restraints during the making of Season 1, the coaches were only painted orange on one side and then green/cream on the other.  They pulled this same magic trick with the Milk/Tar tankers as well.

Although I see the orange coaches being an easy option for Bachmann and definitely rolling stock people would buy, I don't see them happening simply because they honestly seem too practical.  Furthermore, I could actually see them having a slightly higher RRP than that of Annie/Clarabel (even though they just used an existing tooling), and therefore in the long run it would be cheaper just to make your own coaches instead.

I actually made 3 of them for myself years back when I was still into HO scale by simply using gasoline (or nail polish remover works too) to remove the names.  I also painted the frames of the coaches their proper black.  The current owner that I sold them to was nice enough to send me a photo to show.  I actually ran my coaches backwards, with the faces facing the rear, and using 1 Annie and 2 Clarabels.  Anyways, it's really not a hard project to tackle if you wish to make your own.

(http://i64.tinypic.com/33f6zw6.png)

-Rusty

As we are now just one week away from the announcements, I thought that I should post my final predictions:

HO Scale
-Reintroduced Salty, Sidney, or Red Rosie (would love to see Stepney or Daisy, but they seem extremely unlikely at this point)
-Troublesome Truck #6 (Tanker or Van)
-Reintroduced Flat Car (two variants: paint drums & oil drums)

Narrow Gauge
-Peter Sam

Resin Buildings (Wishful Thinking)
-Any of these: http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34707.0.html

Large Scale
-Red Coach
-Red Brake Coach

or

-Troublesome Truck #3 (Van)
-Circus Van- Red
-Circus Van- Blue

Only one more week before InsideTrack posts ALL the announcements for this year. Once posted, that's it until 2020. Soon after the 2019 announcements get posted, the 2019 catalog will be released. Hopefully, we'll have images of the Narrow Gauge Coaches in it. As for HO Scale, we may or may not get a new tooling, since no engine is currently on the backburner, but it's best we don't raise our hopes. Good possibility we'll just get either Sidney or Red Rosie. If that ends up being the case, we'll just have to simply deal with it. When last year's announcements weren't what we expected, there was plenty of disappointment.

By "deal with it" do you mean not give our money to products we don't want and voice our disinterest because the only way a company can improve its product line is through customer feedback, aka the same process of Facebook Moms voicing to Mattel that their kids didn't like Thomas & Friends Wood, so Mattel took the brand back and redid the paintjobs (though we'll see how that pans out in the long run)

That wasn't quite what I meant...

I meant, you can still voice your opinions and criticisms against unwanted products. What I meant by dealing with it, is that when unwanted products get announced, there's nothing you can do to change them for this year. Of course you can still voice your criticisms. It's very important to criticize unwanted products because when products are garbage, and nobody wants them, the company won't make money. That's how Mattel changed Thomas Wood, by making the models now fully painted after receiving numerous complaints.

I'm really sorry if my words were interpreted in a questionable way. I don't want to cause any flame wars. I probably shouldn't have included those words in my post.

I am going to make my final list of predictions now, considering we at least know one Thomas item coming out this year.

HO Scale:
Either Stepney or no engine
Troublesome Truck #6 (If there is no new engine this year, I would like to see this truck made.)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/cb/Percy%27sPredicament13.png/revision/latest?cb=20120213234659)

Although, I wouldn't exactly mind to see this face:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b9/BusyGoingBackwards13.png/revision/latest?cb=20170526160158)

Or if a new tooling for a truck cannot be made, I would do a tanker with one of these faces:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b1/ToadStandsBy11.png/revision/latest?cb=20150331000644)

I also think the Flatbed should be re-released, either with the same load as before or with a new load.

Narrow Gauge:
Peter Sam
Hopefully some brake vans could be made, too, but if they aren't, I'm sure they will be announced next year.

Large Scale:
Red Coaches
OR
Henrietta and Hannah
OR
Troublesome Truck #3 and other recolors.

Well, Looks like that time of year again. Thought I'd give my predictions.

HO Scale

-Sidney (It's most likely as to complete the Class 08 characters, barring Splodge, Plus he's still relevant to the show currently even after the rebranding)

-Nia and/or Rebecca (Wishful thinking on my part but they are now considered main characters and Mattel may want to push for them. Not 100% sure how much creative control Mattel actually has when it come to Bachmann's choices but I heard that's why Rheneas was held back so long.

-Red Rosie (Last year proved they aren't afraid of doing variations of existing characters plus she's slightly more relevant now then she was in 2016/17 so it might be time for an update)

-Stanley (Way out of the ballpark on this one but he's one I've seen being wanted for a while but I doubt it.)

HO Rolling Stock

- Red Express Coaches (Think these might be pretty obvious seeing as the green ones are returning. But i'm hopeful nonetheless)

- TT#6 (Could be anything really and I'd be happy but possibly something along the lines of a tanker with a face as those have recently returned to the series and it'd give them an excuse to use the tanker again this year. A Vent van with a face is also a viable option since they returned to the series as well. Either or i'd be fine with as long as it's not a silly color.)

-Henrietta (obviously I know that they've already done Henrietta, But it's going on five years since she gained a face so it might be time to give her an update)   

Narrow Gauge
(If they make one this year)

-Peter Sam (He seems to be the popular prediction for this year so I'll just on the bandwagon.)

-Duncan or Sir Handel (To continue the numbers in order if they want (i.e: Duncan after Rusty and Sir Handel after Rheneas) Duncan I think would be the mostly likely out of the two seeing as he has appeared more then Sir Handel lately.

-Victor (A wild card here but Victor has appear more then any of the other narrow gauge engines lately so he might be more will know the Sir Handel or Peter Sam.

NG Rolling Stock

-Brake-Vans (We have nearly everything else so some sort of brakevan would be a good option)

Large Scale Engines
(Also If they do anything this year)

-Edward (We've been asking for years for him and he's still a popular engine when it come to the target audience for Large Scale.)

-Philip (Another wild card here but he's small engine they can make to please Thomas fans and sell to non-Thomas people to make what they want.) 

Large Scale Rolling Stock

-Red Branchline Coach and Brake Coach (Honestly, just a repaint of Annie and Clarabel with different roofs.

-Henrietta (Same as Edward, We've been asking for years and if Toby is still going to be made it would be nice to have his coach.

Always to possibility of the non-rail things.

Non-Engine Characters
-Trevor
-Butch
-Sir Robert Norramby Figure
-Updated Guard (CGI face)

Buildings
-Ffarqhuar

I don't really have any reasons for the last few, just something I hope happens. But that's all I got. See you all next year! :P

Quote from: TrainMan2001 on February 09, 2019, 01:29:14 PM
I am going to make my final list of predictions now, considering we at least know one Thomas item coming out this year.

HO Scale:
Either Stepney or no engine
Troublesome Truck #6 (If there is no new engine this year, I would like to see this truck made.)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/cb/Percy%27sPredicament13.png/revision/latest?cb=20120213234659)

Although, I wouldn't exactly mind to see this face:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b9/BusyGoingBackwards13.png/revision/latest?cb=20170526160158)

Or if a new tooling for a truck cannot be made, I would do a tanker with one of these faces:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b1/ToadStandsBy11.png/revision/latest?cb=20150331000644)

I also think the Flatbed should be re-released, either with the same load as before or with a new load.

Narrow Gauge:
Peter Sam
Hopefully some brake vans could be made, too, but if they aren't, I'm sure they will be announced next year.

Large Scale:
Red Coaches
OR
Henrietta and Hannah
OR
Troublesome Truck #3 and other recolors.

I had an idea to use the old hoppers from the chuggington range, repaint them and add buffers and coupling hooks. I think they would look pretty good and hopefully in scale with the Thomas stock. This is the one I am talking about.

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71kJnq4B-SL._SX679_.jpg

I know its not an exact match, but I think the top half will fit on a Thomas style chassis.

If Bachmann does make Sidney, one good thing to come from that will be that they'll have completed their Class 08 line of characters. Bachmann would finally have all the Class 08 characters, excluding Splodge and the mainland diesels. Having all the ones that are relevant, with character and name: Diesel (two versions), 'Arry, Bert, Paxton, and Sidney.

But what about Ulli?

Quote from: JLK2707 on February 10, 2019, 12:47:11 AM
But what about Ulli?

Ulli is part of the Mainland Diesels that TrainFan97 mentioned. He has a name but he doesn't really have a character. The Unnamed Diesel who named dropped him had more character honestly. And Splodge are clearly a long shot unless miraculously Bachmann somehow makes Diesel 10 (which won't happen no matter how cool it would be). So really Sidney is the only Class 08 that they could make that would make any sort of sense.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on February 07, 2019, 09:12:08 PM

Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on February 07, 2019, 07:30:02 PM
Why are you guys saying the orange branch line coaches didn't have faces? The episodes with them showed they have faces. At least they are implied to, what with the close ups of faces and all.

If you're talking about the close-ups of the coaches' faces from the episode James Learns a Lesson, you'll find that James actually IS pulling Annie and Clarabel as part of his passenger train. You can see their names on their sides. The other three coaches were unlettered and faceless.

I checked that episode just now. It's just one coach at the back that has a name, seemingly alternating between Annie and Clarabel for the different facial expressions. I don't think there was any intention for it to be them, just a generic coach and they used Annie/Clarabel for it.

Four days til announcements...prepare yourselves with tempered expectations.

I have no expectations. Since last year's announcements guessing will be pointless.

Less than a week away, and the complete list of announcements for this year will be listed by InsideTrack this Friday. After that, that's all folks... until next year!

I have low expectations, but I'm still feeling anxious to see how good or bad the announcements will be. Either it will be a huge improvement over last year, or it will be even worse than last year. I shouldn't expect it to be any better, so I can avoid disappointment. As much as we'd like to see Stepney or Daisy being made in HO, they seem unlikely at this point. They might once again go the more cost-effective route by making another recolor, like Sidney to complete the Class 08 line, or Red Rosie to make Rosie available in her current, up-to-date livery.

My HO rolling stock hopes are the Explosives Van, and Troublesome Truck #6.

Quote from: TrainFan97 on February 11, 2019, 05:25:08 PM
Less than a week away, and the complete list of announcements for this year will be listed by InsideTrack this Friday. After that, that's all folks... until next year!

I have low expectations, but I'm still feeling anxious to see how good or bad the announcements will be. Either it will be a huge improvement over last year, or it will be even worse than last year. I shouldn't expect it to be any better, so I can avoid disappointment. As much as we'd like to see Stepney or Daisy being made in HO, they seem unlikely at this point. They might once again go the more cost-effective route by making another recolor, like Sidney to complete the Class 08 line, or Red Rosie to make Rosie available in her current, up-to-date livery.

My HO rolling stock hopes are the Explosives Van, and Troublesome Truck #6.

Alright, seriously... please tone it down a bit.  You've literally repeated the same thing across half a dozen posts within the last month and it's honestly starting to get old.  We're all aware when the announcements will be made, we're all aware who will announce them, and (based on the current status of the range and past announcements) we're all aware the chances of good/bad announcements are 50/50.

I'm sure many of us are anticipating the upcoming announcements, but we honestly don't need an update everyday of how much longer it's going to be till we get them.  In addition to that, the whole Sidney, Red Rosie, Stepney, Daisy, etc topic has been gone over enough times now, I'm pretty sure what's needed to be said has been said and there's really no reason to keep bringing them up.  They may get announced, they may not.  Let's just sit back and relax until Friday and see what happens.  We really don't need a countdown and probability statements each day till the announcements.  This is the Bachmann Forum, not NASA...

-Rusty

Quote from: Plow Bender on February 11, 2019, 08:59:05 PM

Quote from: TrainFan97 on February 11, 2019, 05:25:08 PM
Less than a week away, and the complete list of announcements for this year will be listed by InsideTrack this Friday. After that, that's all folks... until next year!

I have low expectations, but I'm still feeling anxious to see how good or bad the announcements will be. Either it will be a huge improvement over last year, or it will be even worse than last year. I shouldn't expect it to be any better, so I can avoid disappointment. As much as we'd like to see Stepney or Daisy being made in HO, they seem unlikely at this point. They might once again go the more cost-effective route by making another recolor, like Sidney to complete the Class 08 line, or Red Rosie to make Rosie available in her current, up-to-date livery.

My HO rolling stock hopes are the Explosives Van, and Troublesome Truck #6.

Alright, seriously... please tone it down a bit.  You've literally repeated the same thing across half a dozen posts within the last month and it's honestly starting to get old.  We're all aware when the announcements will be made, we're all aware who will announce them, and (based on the current status of the range and past announcements) we're all aware the chances of good/bad announcements are 50/50.

I'm sure many of us are anticipating the upcoming announcements, but we honestly don't need an update everyday of how much longer it's going to be till we get them.  In addition to that, the whole Sidney, Red Rosie, Stepney, Daisy, etc topic has been gone over enough times now, I'm pretty sure what's needed to be said has been said and there's really no reason to keep bringing them up.  They may get announced, they may not.  Let's just sit back and relax until Friday and see what happens.  We really don't need a countdown and probability statements each day till the announcements.  This is the Bachmann Forum, not NASA...

-Rusty

Okay, I'm sorry for bothering you. I'll stop. Okay? Geez. No need to be rude. I didn't realize I was overdoing it.

I have a problem where I tend to overdo things without even knowing it. It happens all the time in real life. I got hooked on a topic, and I got carried away. I'm really sorry if I was being a broken record.

Hello everyone. I'm a bit new to this forum but I've been reading the posts here since 2016. Anyways, here's my 2019 predictions (also I don't think all of those engines will be announced this year, I'm just predicting one of them will get announced)

HO Scale:

Ryan
Red Rosie
Black James
LBSC Thomas
Salty (Reintroduced)

Flat Car with Paint Drums/New Load
Dynamite Van
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Troublesome Truck #6

Narrow Gauge;

Peter Sam

Brake Van

Large Scale:

Sodor Diesel Co. Tanker (If we're lucky)

I was gonna our very detailed descriptions on why I think each item could get released, but I could t be bothered. Anyways, thanks for reading.

I would not be surprised if Bachmann just did Sidney and/or Red Rosie in HO scale due to how things are right now. What do you think?

Quote from: JLK2707 on February 13, 2019, 07:47:48 AM
I would not be surprised if Bachmann just did Sidney and/or Red Rosie in HO scale due to how things are right now. What do you think?

I'd honestly be willing to bet my money on Red Rosie at this point since she seems to be the most likely to happen.  As I said in a previous post however, I'm not for this idea as I don't see her being that profitable considering most who wanted her in the red livery have already done the modification themselves, and the only ones that would buy her at this point are those who don't have her yet.  I do remember seeing a few people saying they we're going to wait till Bachmann updated the livery before getting the model, so there's a couple extra sales there.  Personally I think that the lavender livery is possibly another reason Rosie's sales haven't been that great, aside from the fact Mattel went out of the way to shove her character down our throats...

To be quite honest at this point, I'd be fine with Rosie making it into Large Scale if it meant we could at least get a new locomotive tooling for once.  Still I feel even a tank engine would suffer the same production issues as Diesel... :P

-Rusty

When do we get the 2019 releases?

So tomorrow is the big day.  What are everyone's final thoughts?

My fingers are still crossed for Peter Sam!

Honestly for HO, I'd be fine with anything as long as it's something. Stepney, Daisy, Sidney, Red Rosie, whatever they want. Idc

I'm sure there will be a new narrow gauge engine so that'll be cool and hopefully Large Scale gets at least something like Rosie, Henrietta, or Red Coaches.

A new narrow gauge loco and (hopefully) a return of the resin buildings.

I think either Sidney or Red Rosie would be the most likely for this year. Although I'm still hoping on Ryan getting announced. Imagine if we're all wrong and Salty gets introduced. That'd be kinda funny.

With the announcements being posted tomorrow, my guesses for HO are Sidney and/or Red Rosie. Explosives Van and Troublesome Truck #6 for rolling stock.

Also hoping for Peter Sam in HOn30 Scale.

How does the announcements work, is there a hype video? Do they just announce it on their website, do we know what time it gets announced. Sorry if I come off annoying, this is the first time I have been around for the announcements.

Quote from: Zekeism on February 14, 2019, 03:07:52 PM
How does the announcements work, is there a hype video? Do they just announce it on their website, do we know what time it gets announced. Sorry if I come off annoying, this is the first time I have been around for the announcements.

The moderators for the Bachmann Forums (specifically InsideTrack) usually post a whole new thread dedicated to the Bachmann 2019 Thomas lineup. It's not a video, rather a list of the new/reintroduced products for 2019. Usually the list is split into the three main range; HO Scale, HOn30 Scale (Narrow Gauge), and Large Scale. I don't know the specific time they post the thread.

The announcements are usually posted sometime in the afternoon, of course that's here on the East Coast for me.

In response to Chaz's post, here are my wishes/predictions for announcements.

Wishful Thinking:

HO:
Original Thomas - with moving eyes
Original James - with moving eyes
Red Express Coaches
Troublesome Truck #6
Flatcar w/ Paint Drums (or other load)
Resin Buildings

Narrow Gauge:
Peter Sam
Brakevan(s)
V-Tippers

Large Scale:
James the Red Engine w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)
Emily w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)
Toby the Tram Engine w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)
Mavis w/ DCC Sound (with moving eyes)
Red Coaches
Troublesome Truck #3
Henrietta (and maybe Hannah)

Slap in the Face Reality:

HO:
Red Rosie
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Explosives Van

Narrow Gauge:
Duncan

Large Scale:
Sodor Diesel Co. Tanker

-Rusty

Just a second, Plow Bender. If they were to make a new engine in Large Scale, would they make it DCC Sound like Thomas and Percy right off the bat? If so, that would be cool.

And also if we're doing "wishful" predictions, I'd really want Bachmann to make an HO Scale Stanley model and to come straight out of left field and make Large Scale Diesel with DCC Sound (I know they discontinued him but I'm being wishful here) If not him, then Edward, Philip, or Rosie. That's all I'd want.

As hard as it is to admit, I know that the announcements aren't gonna be stellar this year.
HOWEVER!
I think the only year I wasn't pleasantly surprised in at least one category was the year they released no new engines for HO scale (but if I remember correctly, that was the year we got the resin line, so maybe not even then...). So, as dismal as it may seem right now in terms of new products, I'm sure Bachmann knows how we feel about repaints and filler products and have one surprise or another hidden up their sleeves... they always do.

Here's what I mean:

2018:
HO Scale
58818 Grumpy Diesel (with moving eyes)
76034 Gordon's Express Brake Coach
76035 Gordon's Composite Coach
77010 Spiteful Brake Van
77008 Sodor Diesel Co. Tanker
77009 Water Tanker

Narrow Gauge
77204 Red Carriage
77205 Blue Carriage

Large Scale
98022 Toffee Tanker                                  
98023 Water Tanker                              
98024 Chocolate Syrup Tanker            


2017:
HO Scale
58817 Paxton (with moving eyes)
77011 Ventilated Van – Great Western
77012 Ventilated Van – Sodor Fruit & Vegetable Co.
77013 McColl's Cattle Wagon

Narrow Gauge
58603 Rusty

Large Scale
91407 Diesel (with moving eyes)
98021 Spiteful Brake Van


2016:
HO Scale
58816 Rosie (with moving eyes)
77014 Sodor Salt Wagon
77015 Troublesome Truck #5
77016 GWR Cattle Wagon
77017 Refrigerator Car – Live Lobsters

Narrow Gauge
58602 Rheneas
77301 Narrow Gauge Slate Wagon with Load
77302 Narrow Gauge Slate Wagon with Load #101
77303 Narrow Gauge Slate Wagon with Load #164

Large Scale
91421 Thomas the Tank Engine with DCC Sound
91422 Percy the Small Engine with DCC Sound
32037 Large Scale Thomas & Friends™ DCC Sound Module
98016 Box Van – Sodor Fruit & Vegetable Co.
98017 Box Van – Explosives
98018 Box Van – Great Western


2015 was a spoils year because we *finally* got Oliver and I think that's when we got the NG range launched too so I'm skipping that year, also for whatever reason Bachmann deleted that thread so a transcript isn't publically available.


2014:
Red Coach (Item No. 76038)
Red Brake Coach (Item No. 76039)
Thomas & Friends™ Resin Buildings: Maithwaite Station (Item No. 35901), Black Lock Folly (Item No. 35902), Signal Box (Item No. 35903), and Brendam Warehouse (Item No. 35904)

Announced in 2013, arriving sometime in 2014
Iron 'Arry (Item No. 58812)
Iron Bert (Item No. 58813)
Troublesome Truck #4 (Item No. 77020)
Jeremy (Item No. 42440)


Large Scale
Open Wagon - Red (Item No. 98013)
Cream Tanker (Item No. 98014)

Announced in 2013, arriving sometime in 2014
Raspberry Tank Car (Item No. 98011)
Open Wagon - Blue (Item No. 98012)


Hopefully, everyone can see what I'm getting at and realize that Bachmann has always taken care of us older fans, and every year's line can't be stellar all around. Just stay positive and remember at the end of the day how lucky we are to be getting models in the first place...

I always get butterflies before the announcements, especially when they're almost here.

Quote from: Streak on February 14, 2019, 04:15:30 PM
Just a second, Plow Bender. If they were to make a new engine in Large Scale, would they make it DCC Sound like Thomas and Percy right off the bat? If so, that would be cool.

To be honest Mr. Streak, your post just got me thinking about what I said previously.  That being the case, I'll have to step back for a moment.

First let's talk about what we already have in the range with DCC Sound, being Thomas and Percy.  Bachmann also has the sound module sold separately, which includes the sounds for James, Emily, Toby, and other characters which sadly don't seem to have much chance in Large Scale at this point.  But here's the thing with the way these models are set up.  The DCC Sound models can run off either digital or analog, which means you don't have to choose between one operating system or the other.  Personally I feel this is why the standard Thomas model was discontinued, and my guess is Percy has stuck around a little longer considering he is not as popular of a seller, and therefore Bachmann still has a few hundred of these models still in the warehouse.

Now on the topic of Mavis getting announced, here's where your statement comes into play.  Would Bachmann make Mavis with DCC Sound already on board, or would they make the model standard DC?  My thoughts on this are that it's an argument that can swing both ways.  If Bachmann has plans to thin out their standard DC models (as they've done with Thomas) and just make them all come with DCC Sound on board, then to release Mavis without the addition of sound on the first go seems a little odd.  At the same time, Bachmann would have to make a sound module for Mavis, as the current one does not offer her as an option in the programming.

Now let's say Bachmann has plans to make Mavis, but this time just as a standard DC model.  If the range continues as it has been (just with DCC sound models being Thomas and Percy), then this seems the most likely.  In this case I could see Bachmann bringing out a sound module for Mavis at a later date.  I do remember Chaz brought up the same idea with Diesel back before the 2018 announcements, but his cancelation kind of killed the chances of getting a sound module.  If Bachmann did decide to announce Mavis though, I think they should look into a sound module for her, as without one it leaves Mavis as the only engine character without the option of sound, without having to start from scratch and add it yourself.  Winston on the other hand is another story entirely, as Bachmann was clearly fighting enough just to put a motor in him (hence why the model doesn't have moving eyes or a full interior) that they wouldn't even be bothered with fitting a sound system.

So as a recap, if Bachmann does intend to add DCC Sound to James, Emily, and Toby, then adding it to Mavis should be a priority as well.  I think it would make sense to give Mavis her own sound module, rather than having her share one with other diesel characters similar to what Bachmann did with the first module.  I think during that time Bachmann had bigger plans for the Large Scale range which were cut short due to production costs, hence why sound suites offered then include characters that don't have much of a chance now.  In the case that Bachmann just holds on to the standard models, then a standard Mavis would be fine.  I think at the end of the day however, a sound module for Mavis should at least be looked into, even if a model of her never gets released with DCC Sound factory installed.

As I said in an earlier post, I personally feel that Mavis is the way to go if Bachmann wants to do another engine character in Large Scale, and a diesel at that.  She's a popular character, a rather easy tooling, can reuse Toby's chassis, and is sure to sell better than Winston did when he was released.  If Bachmann plans to add DCC Sound to her be it factory and/or optional, then I welcome this addition as well.  Yes models with DCC sound cost extra, and yes maybe sound is more of a luxury for some, but personally (and from past experience working with models with DCC Sound on board) it's well worth that little bit extra for the life it brings to the models.

-Rusty

Really interesting post, Plow Bender. I pretty much agree with everything you said. It would be cool if they went and converted all the engines to DCC Sound considering as they won't even sell Large Scale Thomas without it anymore. I also like the ideas about Large Scale Mavis. Mavis hasn't been a character I've been super interested with in recent years but your explanation for how easy it could be for them to make her in the line makes me really want her now all of a sudden. I want Large Scale to be thrown a bone after the cancellation of LS Diesel. Any engine right now would be great and Mavis could sell very well when you consider her HO model's sales. I think that right now the two engines for Large Scale I see the most likely now are Mavis (due to her established ease to produce) and Rosie (due to her recent relevance and possible ease as a tank engine). Maybe if Mavis is made in LS, they could also make Henrietta alongside her considering both characters' relation to Toby. Of course this is all just hypothetical.

I just hope that maybe someday, Bachmann will be able to be rid of the budget problems they've been having and then maybe someday we could get Large Scale Diesel for real as well as other characters like Bill, Ben, Duck, or even Edward. But maybe that's me being too hopeful again.

I agree. Let's just hope we enjoy whatever is mentioned tomorrow! But don't be surprised if it is more recolours of current engines and/or rolling stock. Not trying to be a downer, but I am just commenting over what we have gotten over the past few years. Also, why was the large scale Bachmann devious diesel cancelled?

Quote from: Streak on February 14, 2019, 11:02:20 PM
I just hope that maybe someday, Bachmann will be able to be rid of the budget problems they've been having and then maybe someday we could get Large Scale Diesel for real as well as other characters like Bill, Ben, Duck, or even Edward. But maybe that's me being too hopeful again.

What exactly are the budget problems? Is there anywhere to find information on it?

Quote from: JLK2707 on February 15, 2019, 05:10:36 AM
I agree. Let's just hope we enjoy whatever is mentioned tomorrow! But don't be surprised if it is more recolours of current engines and/or rolling stock. Not trying to be a downer, but I am just commenting over what we have gotten over the past few years. Also, why was the large scale Bachmann devious diesel cancelled?

If I'm not mistaken, Diesel would've been a very expensive character to both manufacture and purchase. He's an engine that would require a new tooling and his retail price supposedly would've been on the same level as Emily's, if not higher.

Other users have already discussed this, but seeing a character with a new tooling in the Large Scale range has become an insurmountable challenge in recent years. That's one of the reasons why Mavis has recently become an appealing choice: her tooling can easily be reused from Toby's without much changes. Maybe at the most, the base can be extended to match her longer size, but other than that, I don't see much to worry about in terms of changing it.

I wonder why we did not get Sidney this year.

Quote from: JLK2707 on February 16, 2019, 01:20:09 AM
I wonder why we did not get Sidney this year.

I'm assuming it's because the Sidney isn't just as simple as a Diesel recolour. They would have to change the tooling to accommodate for his narrower face. I also think the eye mechanism may need adjustment to avoid stretching Sidney's face. It also may be related to Bachmann UK's factory troubles recently. Most of their announcements this year were recolours due to factory issues, so perhaps it's possible that the USA branch has been having some factory issues too? Then of course there's what everybody keeps commenting, that maybe they didn't want to flood the market with another Class 08 diesel for the third year in a row running.

Finally, since we still have Large Scale and Narrow Gauge products on the back-burner, and a new N Gauge line coming out, I'm assuming Bachmann may have more than had their hands full for this year. So decided to avoid creating new HO toolings, or modifying parts of existing mechanisms.

~Alex

Quote from: Toad139 on February 15, 2019, 02:43:44 PM
What exactly are the budget problems? Is there anywhere to find information on it?

Quote from: Falcon the 2nd on February 15, 2019, 02:47:14 PM
If I'm not mistaken, Diesel would've been a very expensive character to both manufacture and purchase. He's an engine that would require a new tooling and his retail price supposedly would've been on the same level as Emily's, if not higher.

Like Mr. Falcon pointed out in his post, Diesel would have been expensive to produce and have an RRP close to (if not more) than Emily, which as of the date of this post holds at $429.  I think many modelers out there would see a tender engine such as Emily better value for money than a shunter loco such as Diesel.  In the end, Bachmann clearly saw Diesel wasn't worth the cost, even if they could have literally scattered out his tooling across 3-4 other characters and got production costs down that much more.  Put simply, the more models you produce, the more you can spread out the cost of tooling, thus keep the cost per item low.

Furthermore, compared to Diesel there would be many other Large Scale models currently offered from Bachmann that would give you more bang for your buck.  The Thomas and Percy models with DCC Sound are only $399 each.  In addition to that and outside the Thomas line, Bachmann's 2-4-2 Locomotives and Peter Witt Streetcars (both models with a high amount of detail)  have RRPs of $419 and $429 respectively.  That being said, which of the following would you be most likely to purchase?

Diesel - $429+
Emily - $429
Thomas w/ DCC Sound - $399
Percy w/ DCC Sound - $399
2-4-2 Locomotive - $419
Peter Witt Streetcar - $429

Even if Bachmann had decided to go through with Diesel and release him to the Large Scale market, there would still be those that would whine about the high RRP of a niche market product, not wanting to pay the cost of Bachmann recovering it's investment to produce said model.  At the end of the day, Diesel's RRP would have been the nail in the coffin for the model, and personally I feel Bachmann did the right thing by not going through with the production stage.  No one in their right mind would have gone out and bought Diesel when several other models Large Scale present far better value and have more appeal.

-Rusty

Has anyone ever thought of Bachmann making Murdoch? It's pretty realistic because they've made his real life loco in branch line, it's just a thought.

Quote from: TrainshockeylifE on February 25, 2019, 07:17:56 PM
Has anyone ever thought of Bachmann making Murdoch? It's pretty realistic because they've made his real life loco in branch line, it's just a thought.

I see Murdoch very unlikely, every character that has been made, has been featured in multiple seasons.

Quote from: TrainshockeylifE on February 25, 2019, 07:17:56 PM
Has anyone ever thought of Bachmann making Murdoch? It's pretty realistic because they've made his real life loco in branch line, it's just a thought.

I'm not gonna lie. I'd absolutely love a Bachmann Murdoch. But  he hasn't appeared in the show for over 10 years. However, the Hornby Murdoch is worth a lot of money and for some reason, people are paying ludicrous amounts for it. I'd say it's very unlikely.

Quote from: TrainshockeylifE on February 25, 2019, 07:17:56 PM
Has anyone ever thought of Bachmann making Murdoch? It's pretty realistic because they've made his real life loco in branch line, it's just a thought.

It isn't realistic at all. Yes, they have the tooling, but that's a very expensive engine to make. Considering they aren't introduceing any new tooling whatsoever into the the range at the moment, it's not going to happen.

Quote from: Toad139 on February 27, 2019, 03:54:16 PM

Quote from: TrainshockeylifE on February 25, 2019, 07:17:56 PM
Has anyone ever thought of Bachmann making Murdoch? It's pretty realistic because they've made his real life loco in branch line, it's just a thought.

It isn't realistic at all. Yes, they have the tooling, but that's a very expensive engine to make. Considering they aren't introduceing any new tooling whatsoever into the the range at the moment, it's not going to happen.

Also they would have to make a new mold to begin with to include the eye mechanism so even if they made the engine in another range, that wouldn't mean Bachmann would make it in the Thomas range

Quote from: Ronniethe14xxx on February 27, 2019, 04:45:50 PM
Also they would have to make a new mold to begin with to include the eye mechanism so even if they made the engine in another range, that wouldn't mean Bachmann would make it in the Thomas range

That's true, Bachmann doesn't even use existing Branchline models for locomotives in the Thomas range.