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Discussion Boards => Large => Topic started by: RGSEast on December 21, 2007, 07:21:19 PM

Title: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 21, 2007, 07:21:19 PM
Just unboxed my 455 post wreck and it is a honey. Packing was excellent and there was no damage.

I went to Silver San Juan and RGS Story for pictures of the engine and the plumbing appears to be quite accurate. The cab is well done and has better rivet detail than I have seen on other models of 455.

The tender even has the patch on the engineers side. Don't quite know where they came up with foot boards on the rear, but those are easily removed.

One the the best upgrades they did to the engine is a "coaster" drive, so you don't have to slide it down the track when power is not available. Wheels turn fairly easily and should take the shock out of sudden stops.

The plow comes installed and there is a spark arrestor included in the box.

I will take it outside tomorrow and do a test run and see how it smooth it is. When I had the pilot model here for the filming of the video, it was a ran very well, with excellent low speed. It also had enough power to pull 15 cars up a 3.5% grade and that was without the boiler weight.

Congrats to the engineering folks at Bachmann for the design and workmanship on the engine. This will satisfy the most ardent DRGw/RGS folks and should make Bachmann some new customers.

For the "rivet" counters, there are some errors, but without the real engine to look at, that is to be expected. Those few errors can be corrected and that is the fun of an engine like this, it is plastic, it is under 1k and you can have a ball bringing it up to your specifications.

Will get some pics posted tomorrow.

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on December 21, 2007, 08:11:09 PM
Those of us waiting would probably like to know from which dealer yours came (likewise the others  "OS"ed thru here) so we might have an idea where ours are--and thereby when they might arrive--we can put the milk and cookies out for the UPS driver!   8^)   gj
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 21, 2007, 09:11:29 PM

Mine came from John Weigel at Peterboro (sp) Railroad in Maryland. We are one shipping day away from Philadelphia. Now we are waiting on the tank cars. Should be Wednesday if all goes according to plan.

It is worth the wait. Can't wait to fire it up tomorrow and move some revenue.

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: rslater on December 22, 2007, 01:50:48 PM
Send those photos...can't wait to see...my K is going to Denver and back to N. C.  >:(  I'll be lucky to see my 455 by the middle of January.
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 22, 2007, 02:56:20 PM
I am sure it will be a hard wait, but worth it. Yours is a post wreck???
I am now editing some pics so that I can post them. Will put them over on MLS or the RGS list at Yahoo. Will let you all know.

Now to go to work on the AW install. Gotta get this thing running.

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: rslater on December 22, 2007, 03:55:06 PM
I ordered the tri-color.  I have an Accucraft K-27 but from what I have seen, Bachmann out did themselves.  They are going to give Accucraft a run for the money. :D
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 22, 2007, 04:19:44 PM
I think you are right as far as detail. The Accu engines are kinda bullet proof, but you can have 3 of these to wear out for the cost of one of theirs. The cab interior detail on this engine far exceeds anything Accu has done.

I have posted 5 pictures on the RGS Yahoo group for your enjoyment. More will follow.

Follow this link.


http://ph.groups.yahoo.com/group/RGS/photos/browse/bec6?c=

Enjoy

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Perry Ottoman on December 22, 2007, 04:39:30 PM
I have to register at Yahoo to look at pictures ? Nah, sorry
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 22, 2007, 06:25:08 PM
I am working to get them posted over on MLS. Will let you know as soon as they are available. Sorry for the problems getting to RGS Group....

Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Gary Armitstead on December 22, 2007, 06:49:36 PM
Roger

I just uploaded to my web space on MLS, but the pix are still too large. Dean Whipple just posted some of your photos on MLS.

Gary
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: rslater on December 22, 2007, 07:25:26 PM
Roger

Great photos

Rick
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 22, 2007, 09:27:23 PM
Glad I got the photos posted. Thanks to Dean.

Here is the link to MLS

http://www.mylargescale.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=50353&whichpage=2

Hope to have photos of the tender interior and the start of the AirWire install on MLS tomorrow morning.

Roger
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: altterrain on December 22, 2007, 10:57:10 PM
(http://gold.mylargescale.com/DeanWhipple/BM/Engineers-Side.jpg)

(http://gold.mylargescale.com/DeanWhipple/BM/Cab-front.jpg)

(http://gold.mylargescale.com/DeanWhipple/BM/Firemans-Side-With-Air-Pump-Detail.jpg)

(http://gold.mylargescale.com/DeanWhipple/BM/Three-quarter-front-view.jpg)

(http://gold.mylargescale.com/DeanWhipple/BM/Tender.jpg)
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Charlie Mutschler on December 22, 2007, 11:41:44 PM
Roger - Thanks!  And to the Bachmann Team - WOW!!!  I am cheerfully anticipating my 463.   

Charlie Mutschler
-30-
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Kevin Strong on December 23, 2007, 01:54:10 AM
It's okay, I guess, but it's no EBT #12. ;D

Hope it runs as good as it looks.

Later,

K
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 23, 2007, 06:41:44 AM
Kevin, just re letter it EBT and put on the number 12 and no one will know the difference.

Should get operational report on it today. Up early working on the battery installation...

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Kevin Strong on December 24, 2007, 01:58:14 PM
Quote from: RGSEast on December 23, 2007, 06:41:44 AM
Kevin, just re letter it EBT and put on the number 12 and no one will know the difference.
Boy, so much for "Peace on Earth, Goodwill towards Man..." making my stomach churn like that. Okay, it's either that or the fruitcake I just ate. No, wait... I used the fruitcake as a station platform. Or was that last year's fruitcake?

Regardless, Merry Christmas folks. May Santa bring you your K-27s soon enough--no matter what they're lettered.  ;D

Later,

K

(And Lee, don't even think about digging up that old photo. You know which one... :D )
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 24, 2007, 02:54:47 PM
You are not going to share your and Lee's secrets... Thats not the holiday spirit.

You could also reletter some USA 3 bay hoppers to pull behind the EBT outside frame K. Or remove a driver and call it EBT 11A.

Best for the holidays...

Rog
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Matthew (OV) on December 24, 2007, 04:26:25 PM
Ho ho humbug!

(This photo removed by the committee to ensure tasteful painting of locomotives!)

Besides ... it was supposed to be a bumblebee EBT 12, I think, not a Bumblebee K27 lettered as EBT 19 ....

A little more Eggnog, Lee, and you'll feel better!

Matthew (OV)
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Kevin Strong on December 24, 2007, 04:58:50 PM
Ya know, that's the trouble with model railroaders at Christmas. They actually want coal and switches in their stockings. >:( ;D

Later,

K
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: r.cprmier on December 24, 2007, 07:00:10 PM
Roger;
Great pictures!  This is one honey of an engine!  I am hoping I am in that first shipment (I have two) but as they say, patience is...

RIch
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 26, 2007, 05:17:50 PM
Gee, a large scale guy with patience. Just kidding. It will be worth the wait. Stan Ames and I are working on the wiring for AirWire and Phoenix. Taking some time to work out the kinks. Results will be posted on Bachmann for all to use.

Last night fired it up under batteries and the wheels turned, lights came on and the it made noise.

Can't wait until the rain stops and I can take it outside for an innageral run.

Will be posting pics of the install on MLS. Keep an eye out. Product review is where the posting will be.

When I was a little guy, I lived in Larchmont the the New Haven tracks. They kept a small steamer there to go rescue electrics when electricity failed. That was late 40s.

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3

Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Jon D. Miller on December 27, 2007, 12:38:53 AM
QuoteStan Ames and I are working on the wiring for AirWire and Phoenix. Taking some time to work out the kinks. Results will be posted on Bachmann for all to use.

QuoteWill be posting pics of the install on MLS.

OK, I understand the first comment. After all, this is the Bachmann site, it's their locomotive, and Stan Ames is helping to work out the kinks.  As well he should, since it's Stan we have to "thank" for the socket.

It's the second quote that seems to raise a question.  Why the pictures of the instal on MLS and not here on the Bachmann site?  As I mentioned above, this is the logical place for all the details that will be required to get the K-27 up and running and that would include any pictures.  Pictures of the installation will certainly help us all with converting our locomotives.

If MLS is selected for posting pictures of the instal it only seems right that sites such as Trains.comForums, Large Scale Central, and Large Scale on Line also receive photos of the installation.  Seems only right that folks that use these sites have access to the same information. 

JD

Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Solar on December 27, 2007, 12:54:26 AM
I suspect that they are posting there because one or both of them have paid for "First Class" memberships there, and therefore have space available there to upload pictures to illustrate what they are doing.

I don't see a problem with that.  Anyone and everyone can go there and read their posts--no one is being excluded.
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: StanAmes on December 27, 2007, 08:23:59 AM
Quote
It's the second quote that seems to raise a question.  Why the pictures of the instal on MLS and not here on the Bachmann site?  As I mentioned above, this is the logical place for all the details that will be required to get the K-27 up and running and that would include any pictures.  Pictures of the installation will certainly help us all with converting our locomotives.
Jon

Perhaps I can answer your question.  The K27 has a number of innovative mechanical and electrical features.

Bachmann thought it would be useful to post a variety of installation examples for the K27.  These examples will include photos and be posted on the Bachmann WWW site and possibly other sites as well.

Hopefully by the week of Jan 7th they willl be able to place these examples on the Bachmann site.  Why the delay?  Simple.  Those involved in this effort are working across the industry to coordinate the examples to ensure that both parties agree with the installation write-ups.  It takes time to do this coordination and many companies take off this week.

There are a wide range of great products out there and the intent is to show a representative set of installations.

Following is a status of the effort.  Please note that these are representative installations and not all combinations are shown.  For example, while the Dallee installation could have been done for DC, DCC, or RC , DC was chosen for the write-up.

QSI Solutions (DC/DCC/RC) - write-up done and coordinated
Phoenix P5 sound with a generic DCC decoder (DCC/RC) - write-up done and in coordination
Dallee Steam Sound (DC/DCC/RC) - write-up done for DC sound installation and in coordination
ESU (DCC) - write-up in draft form
Digitrax (DCC) - write-up in draft form
CVP Airwire 900 with Phoenix 2k2 (RC) - in development
AristoCraft Radio Control  (RC) - deferred awaiting new product
SoundTraxx Sierra sound (DC)  - in development
Lenz Gold with Hybrid Drive - in development

As we move forward this forum will likely be the principle place where information will be disseminated but naturally discussions will take place on a variety of other forums as well. 

Stan Ames
http://www.tttrains.com/largescale/ (http://www.tttrains.com/largescale/)
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: calenelson on December 27, 2007, 08:36:14 AM

....So QSI (DCC RC) and Aristocraft are the only RC brands that have been chosen to be installed and reported on by Bachmann...and at this time AC has deferred awaiting further development ....

What about RGS and his AW (DCC 'esq) install on MLS...? 

In the end..why all the install pictures and "procedures" needed?  I know many are curious, esp those who have ordered a K and have yet to receive. 

The hobby as a whole has been led to believe that with the "Ames" Socket "ANY" product could be installed without question or problem-Super Easily.

Happy New Year
cale
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Bud Steinhoff on December 27, 2007, 08:52:25 AM
I am going to install Aristo 75mhz on-board with Phoenix sound.
You are leaving me out, waiting for new Aristo system?
Bud
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: the Bach-man on December 27, 2007, 09:50:36 AM
Dear All,
We'd like to post info on ALL systems together so there's no accusation of bias. I believe the new board will make all the installs very easy. Let's all wait and see before we comment...
Happy New Year!
the Bach-man
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: lkydvl on December 27, 2007, 11:50:15 AM
you did notice that RCS has been conveniently left of the list...

So much for industry wide.

Andre'
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: bobgrosh on December 27, 2007, 12:31:04 PM
As I sit here installing sound and DCC in my new three truck shay, ordered WITH DCC and sound back when it was first released, I wonder just how long it will take to do the Kay.

For example., here is the link to the PDF for the wiring diagram for the Shay.

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/dwg/dwgs/G824X-2.PDF (http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/dwg/dwgs/G824X-2.PDF)

It don't work!

I got it from Product Reference - Diagrams - Spectrum - LS 3 TRUCK SHAY DCC SOUND

If after a year, you still can't provide a wiring diagram for the Shay, (which was ordered with DCC and Sound but came without it) what makes me think we will see one for the Kay any time soon?

Can someone please scan whatever wiring diagrams come with the K27 and post them? I am trying to make sure I have all the stuff on hand when the Kay arrives and without diagrams I have no clue what these posts are all about.

Wouldn't hurt if I had a schematic for the shay so I can get the darn thing off my workbench before the Kay arrives. Why not fix the link for the shay diagram and post the one for the Kay at the same time.

The only reason I ordered the Shay was because it came with DCC and Sound. Should have been a 10 second thing to program the address and run.
Took a year to find out that the reason they couldn't find my shay was because the dealer got one without DCC and sound instead. Took two weeks to find out that Bachmann can't or wont's send me the missing board. took me three weeks to trace out all the wires, measure all the voltages, replace the 9 volt regulator for the smoke unit, reverse the firebox diodes, solder wires to the chuff switches, etc.

If the shay was supposed to be RTR on DCC what can I expect from the Kay? Supposedly the Airwire took less time to install than to focus a camera.

So what is the holdup? the last post says as luck would have it,Something is shorted out, caused a leak in the lighting and chuff circuits, and something will be replaced. You don't say what shorter or what is being replaced? The transistor, the chuff circuit, the lighting board, the sound card? With all this cryptic descriptions, fuzzy pictures, lack of diagrams, what are we supposed to gain?.

Just release the hold on shipping and let us figure them out ourselves. Doesn't look like you are going to have this stuff figured out by Dec 31st, (Or Jan 7th for that matter.) So just tell the suppliers they can go ahead and ship the K27. We'll figure them out.
I for one, have a variety of decoders, including both the Digitrax ones with the Aristo socket. I have six different sound cards to try. surely one of them will work, but which one?

If you are going to do a review, the REVIEW the loco, not talk about all the trials, mis steps, phone calls to this person or that person or trips to Radio Shack.

Start out simple. First thing we need to know, so we know which decoder or RC motor escapement to buy would be current draw.

How many amps does the motor draw free running at 18 volts?
How many amps does the motor draw stalled at 18 volts?
Now many amps does the loco draw stopped at 18 volts with all the lights and smoke unit on?
How many amps with the smoke unit off?

OK, answer those and at least we have some ballpark idea of what sort of decoder or RC system it would be possible to install.

Now, the second thing would be the sound. Which sound system was the chuff circuit designed to work with. We know it does not allow for plug and play of the Phoenix, so which sound system should we order?

Tell me that and I can probably figure out from the sound system specifications if any of the other sound system I have on hand are compatable.


Let's hope that, once we know what DCC decoder and sound is plug and play, we can have the Kay running in less time than it took to get the Ready to Run Shay going.
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Dr Rivet on December 27, 2007, 06:46:52 PM
Bob G -  Too bad your email is "hidden" on your profile.  RGSE would probably send you some photos and other info directly.  Not EVERYTHING needs to be posted on the forum.

Regarding the apparent "exclusion" of some products from the conversion list; let it be known that some vendors choose not to participate; probably to their own detriment.  Too bad.

Cheers

Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: bobgrosh on December 27, 2007, 07:23:21 PM
Quote from: Dr Rivet on December 27, 2007, 06:46:52 PM
Too bad your email is "hidden" on your profile. 
...

Sorry about that, I was not aware that someone could not email me from this board. I Think I have fixed that now. If not, please let me know.
Quote...
Regarding the apparent "exclusion" of some products from the conversion list; let it be known that some vendors choose not to participate; probably to their own detriment.  Too bad.

Cheers

I wonder, were they all asked? If I were battery/RC or sound system manufacturer, (I'm NOT) or a conversion shop, (I'm NOT) where would I find information about upcoming products from Bachmann? How would they get on a "list" of companies that make various conversion products? If such a list exists, where is it published?

I'd love to see a list of conversion products for my Annie, Lynn, Big Hauler, Two Truck Shay and Three Truck Shay.
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on December 27, 2007, 07:59:38 PM
Well, mine hasn't arrived--via Los Vegas--but reading al the posts--I'm waiting.  For EBT--the roster stops at 18, so 19 or 20 are obvious--or if you want to really be bold--there is a missing number--13--
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: calenelson on December 27, 2007, 09:44:43 PM
Dr. Rivet...

I would personally (and I bet many others) like to know who was asked and chose not to attend and when if you will...

for your first post you seem to have a great deal of knowledge regarding this subject...

thank you

cale
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on December 27, 2007, 10:37:41 PM
it may be more like who was invited not to attend.  gj
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: the Bach-man on December 27, 2007, 10:45:30 PM
Dear All,
I spoke to Dave today, and RCS will be included. I'd appreciate a heads-up from any of you letting me know of other after market systems manufacturers we can contact.
Thanks!
the Bach-man
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Bud Steinhoff on December 29, 2007, 11:55:58 AM
Please include the current Aristo 75mhz on-board in your evaluation.
I am sure there are many that use this system like me and would like to continue putting them in the new locos.
As far as waiting until Aristo comes out with the NEW system, the question is how long are we going to wait and I for one will continue using the 75mhz on-boards and not change everything over for a long time.
Bud
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 29, 2007, 10:18:00 PM
I have been off line for a few days due a Worm call TxHMou.exe. Bad couple of days.

Stan and I have pretty much worked out the AW / Phoenix installation. Found a grounding issue between the Bachmann and Phoenix board. Not the fault of either manufacturer. Tomorrow we are going to test out the latest fixes and should be able to report the results on Monday. The glitch only effects the chuff. We have chuff, but you have to turn on the headlight to get it. Oh well, who said electronics 1A was easy.

Engine runs great and has a low speed operation better than the pilot model. 5 tank cars and an Accu brass caboose up a  3% grade with less that 1/2 throttle. With 4300 Mah batteries (sub C) we should get 4 hours of running with sound and lights.

I now have a 455 pre-wreck on the bench and will verify the component locations will work in the smaller tender.

Will be posting some pictures over on the MLS site and will be happy to discuss how we approached it with any of you.

The good news is that there is lots of room to work inside those tenders, even with the Bachmann board in place.

Rumor has it that Al from AirWire just purchased a K-27...

Roger Cutter
RGS East in 1:20.3
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on December 29, 2007, 11:03:12 PM
As of this afternoon X453W had not OS'ed St.Wubin's in Nevada, but the operator said i had os'ed their Illinois station--as sucj I am figuring it will arrive next year.  Well--the Kadee Shops are closed until then, anyhow.   gj
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Charlie Mutschler on December 30, 2007, 09:08:22 AM
I'm cheerfully anticipating here in snowy eastern Washington state.  Given the snow problems in Denver and various other locations, I am not expecting to see X 463 West arrive before the 7th of January.  Meanwhile, I'm cheerfully anticipating, and reading all the helpful information posted here and elsewhere.    Many thanks, Roger, for all the through reports.  I will be especially interested in your comments about the possibilities for battery and sound installation in the standard K-27 tender.  Happy New Year all. 
Charlie Mutschler
-30-
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on December 30, 2007, 10:09:21 AM
 Here is what I posted last night on MLS. Copied so I don't have to type it again. Hope the snow doesn't stop your delivery. I am thinking you guys really need snow pack in your area.

Also working on a quick way to install Accu couplers on the Bachmann engines and rolling stock. Nothing against the Bachmann couplers, as they do work as close to flawlessly as you can, but the looks????? Sorry BAchmann, its a personal problem.

"In answer to a MLS question this engine should navigate 5' radius curves. It won't be pretty, but gets the job done.

I think that the installation will be relatively easy since the tender is large considering what has to be placed in it and no wiring has to be ripped out and replaced. You will have the battery packs in the rear. To do that you will remove a stud that is behind the water hatch and is attached to the floor. What purpose it serves is beyond me. It is plastic and a Zona saw or a Dremel tool will remove it. Then you have the room for 3 rows of 4 batteries, giving you 14.4 volts (16v with charging). This falls under AirWires 18v max above which have to break the batteries up into two groups.
I have checked and you can fit either Sub C or D cells. This will give you between 3800 and 5000 Mah or 4 hours of operation with lights and sound.
From there you have to install the speaker (place provided for up to 3" speaker. I would use a Phoenix or other high quality speaker. Sort of like your stereo, worth the investment. This fits under the Bachmann board.
Next is locating your on/off switch and volume controls. I drilled holes either side of the speaker for these. On/off on engineers side with forward being ON. You can get away with a single pole, double throw. The volume control comes with the Phoenix sound unit and plugs into the board. I located a fuse holder behind the coal doors, which slip out for easy access to the fuse. The Phoenix board sits nicely behind the fuse. In the pictures that were posted I had the fuse in the rear. Next install will reverse the positions. I was using a 2k2 board and it would not fit between the mounting posts for the Bachmann board.
You will have to wire the batteries to the fuse and then to the on/off switch. From there you feed the power to three places, 1 the AW board, 2. the Bachmann board. The AW board has screw terminals (no soldering) the Bachmann board will require two solder connections.
I placed the AW board on top of the Bachmann board. Some double sided stickey tape will do the job on top of the old plug in for the jumper board for DC operation.
There will be two wires that connect the AW board to the Phoenix board. A plug is used at the Phoenix board and screw terminals at the AW board. Two wires will feed the power for the motor from the AW board to the Bachmann board with solder connections. I wire to fire the head light and one for a reverse light will go from the AW board to the Bachmann board with solder connections.
I mounted the charging jack under the tender hatch (some drilling) and that will require connection to your batteries after the fuse and before the on/off switch.
The programming jack is a plug in and you can mount it under the coal load or just wrap it in tape (preventing a short) and drop in into the tender.
Finally the two connections from the Phoenix board to the Bachmann board for the chuff will be necessary and that is where the transistor will be used and we have not finalized that connection. Work in progress.
So far we have approx 8 solder connections excluding those used to hook up the batteries to the fuse and on/off switch. Not bad and we hope that we can help with how to solder to the board without melting down things.

In answer to Mike, the engine does very well. It pulls, starts smoothly and has good speed control with no extra programming on the AW receiver. I set it to 128 steps and it pulled smoothly from a start on level track with no load. Better than the pilot model. With a load of 5 tank cars and a 10 lb Accu caboose, it started smoothly on a 3% grade. Kept running at under 1/2 throttle.

If you look at the video enclosed, we were pulling 15 cars up the same grade with no stalling. Admittedly we had some issues starting on the grade, but that train was heavy and all friction bearings.

With the competitions K-27 they came with incorrect motors, wheel gauge problems  and had to be remotored before they performed properly. Their electrical pickup was poor in the first runs. This engine seems to do it all right out of the box. Lube it, and enjoy.
Till tomorrow"
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: rslater on December 31, 2007, 02:39:54 PM
Hi Roger,

I see you have a pre wreck 455.  Just what I ordered.  I would love to see a picture.  My question is...did it come with the plow brackets to fill the 4 holes in the smoke box?  Or will I have to make them...

Rick
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on December 31, 2007, 03:44:18 PM
John at Model Railroad News tells me that #464 has arrived in Oregon--review sample direct from Bachmann--so there should be another K-27 review there soon--this month's issue has MMI's HOn3 loco. 
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on December 31, 2007, 08:30:53 PM
I see several K-27's on eBay already! 
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: bobgrosh on December 31, 2007, 08:59:06 PM
So, I preorder the day after Bachmann announces the part numbers and prices..

Others are just walking into shops, or ordering on ebay while mine has not even been released for shipment.

Last time I preorder.
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on January 01, 2008, 12:23:18 AM
I always pre-order as then I am assured of getting what I want. This time they fooled me and didn't announce the 455 post wreck until much later. What a pleasant surprise.

Great job Bachmann. One thing that I really like about their products is the documentation that is included. This one has about 6 sheets of exploded views and wiring. By what I am seeing, this time the color codes on the wiring are easier to follow and don't change at some mysterious hidden point. Even the tank car came with exploded view.

Anyone interested, I have devised a method of splicing the Accucraft coupler to the Tank car email me.

Roger
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 01, 2008, 02:41:38 AM
Yeah--I pre-ordered, too.  Mine is still somewhere in the pipeline.

Roger--are you referring to installing the Accucraft couples on the tank cars?  or referring to the tender of the K-27?  Either way, let me know how--I also have two tank cars ordered.  I am thinking that the Kadee 779 pocket might be the thing to use--gj
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on January 01, 2008, 03:20:51 PM
I am installing Accu on all the Bachman cars and engines. That is what I have on all my other rolling stock. The KDs will drop right in and the Accu requires splicing the Accu coupler onto the shank provided by Bachmann.

Just a matter of preference.

Roger
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 01, 2008, 04:19:45 PM
Yes--I agree with you--I like the Accucraft coupler--I do like the Kadee, but I like operating the couplers wtih the cut levers.  The Bachmann knuckles work OK but their appearance leaves a lot to be desired. 

I would like to see whar you are doing in that splice?  would you mind if we continue off-list?    glenn476@4fast.net   
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Matthew (OV) on January 01, 2008, 04:28:32 PM
Actually, put some of it on the board too ... I'd love to see as well.

Matthew (OV)
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: RGSEast on January 01, 2008, 11:50:03 PM
I will post those too on the MLS or you can email me directly tomorrow and I will send you some pics and specs. Just a coupling of the Bachmann coupler box shank with the Acc coupler with some K&S rectangular tubing.

Compudah is in the final stage of reloading.

Rog
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 02, 2008, 03:03:30 AM
I'll need an email address--sounds good using the K&S tubing.  Accucraft's coupler mount is similar to Kadee's 779, will interchange with Kadee 835.

Won't be going to Kadee tomorrow as K-27 has not arrived yet, and a snowstorm is expected late in the day--don't want to get caught on the wrong side of the mountain.  gj
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: calenelson on January 02, 2008, 05:06:23 PM
Quote from: the Bach-man on December 27, 2007, 10:45:30 PM
Dear All,
I spoke to Dave today, and RCS will be included. I'd appreciate a heads-up from any of you letting me know of other after market systems manufacturers we can contact.
Thanks!
the Bach-man

Happy New Year Bach-man,

We are getting the updates from the Continued Airwire/Phoenix Install..any-word on the above mention of a RCS install by Goodson? 

Will there be units displayed with the different control units to view/operate at the upcoming SELSTS?

Thanks
Cale
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: the Bach-man on January 02, 2008, 10:41:30 PM
Dear Cale,
As of yesterday, Dave's wae still in transit.
Not sure who will be at SELSTS, but photos of all the installs will be posted here.
Have fun!
the Bach-man
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: lkydvl on January 02, 2008, 11:25:57 PM
Here's an interesting tidbit from an MLS post by Roger Cutter:

Just to clarify things for everyone. I did not request the engine first for this kind of work. It was given to me by Bachmann because I trouble shoot all their pilot models (last 6 or 7 years) and make sure they run as best I can get them to for the video and I provide my RR for the video.

Kinda makes you wonder why we still found all the problems with those locos doesn't it?

Andre'
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: calenelson on January 04, 2008, 09:05:15 PM
Quote from: the Bach-man on January 02, 2008, 10:41:30 PM
Dear Cale,
As of yesterday, Dave's wae still in transit.
Not sure who will be at SELSTS, but photos of all the installs will be posted here.
Have fun!
the Bach-man

Thanks for the Update Bach-Man! 

I will anxiously await the report from the Far North-West!  We look forward to seeing this loco and others at the show!

cale
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Jon D. Miller on January 05, 2008, 06:28:52 PM
OK, all you smart guys.

I agree there is a wealth of documentation.

Now for those of us that are about as sharp as a lead pencil, how and where the @#&*&# do you pick up the feeds to connect the optical chuff trigger to a Phoenix board.  To me the wiring diagram is about as clear as mud.

This ain't your momma's Mogul! :o

(http://www.largescaleonline.com/eimages/lsolpics/Team_Member_Pics/jlsrails/Buildings/Steam_Locomotive/100_3642.jpg)

Great locomotive if I could just get it to trigger the chuff.

JD
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 05, 2008, 08:29:21 PM
WOW!! That's quite a green--looks quite a bit brighter than my MMI On3 and Blackstone HOn3--which is somewhat surprising considering the Blackstone came from the same factory 

I just got  those locos out, and it may be the lighting--Yours looks a lot brighter but perhaps due to the sunlight.   gj
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 05, 2008, 08:40:34 PM
I see what was meant about the plow brackets--there are definitely some brackets that belong on the side of the smokebox--they are "L" shaped and held to the smokebox with two rivets.  The base of the "L" has a hole in it for the rod that supports the plow.  I've put many of these on On3 locos--they won't be hard to make, but we shouldn't have to "reinvent the wheel"
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Jon D. Miller on January 05, 2008, 09:27:41 PM
Glenn,
It's probably the lighting, caused by the sun.

The green is darker in "person."  It's close to the same shade of green that Bachmann used on the Great Northern Big Hauler a few years ago. I have so much weathering on the Great Northern that it would be difficult to compare the two.

It is not as "green" as the ET&WNC Big Hauler.

JD
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 05, 2008, 10:26:14 PM
I'll have to agree with you there--

Come on, UPS--let's get going!!  I want my K-27.  Wonder where it is--wish St.A had sent a tracking number--UPS has a bottlenerck station in the Bay Area where if a package looks like it is ahead of schedule they hold it so it gets delivered when they first expected to deliver it=-=  8^) 

Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 05, 2008, 10:32:03 PM
Well--The one I have coming is supposed to be black--but the Blackstone HOn3's are apparently done by Kader==the same factory that does the Bachmann locos. 

Come on, UPS--get those tire chains on and get my loco up here--we"re not getting THAT much snow@@
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 05, 2008, 10:35:06 PM
The green in the photos almost matched the green in the "wait" bars on Windows--
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: glennk28 on January 07, 2008, 07:30:45 PM
Finally arrived today--absolutely fantastic!  All the detail of the Blackstone's, but big enough to see!I'll post a new thread on Kadee couplers. 
Title: Re: 455 arrives at RGS East
Post by: Jon D. Miller on January 07, 2008, 07:50:14 PM
The CD&StL had its K-27 out on the iron today.  We're having spring like weather.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXOBygFflXU

Here's a short video of the "Kay" as it passes Delphos tank with a mixed behind the its tank.  Not the greatest video but you'll get the idea. Phoenix sound installed but it has the wrong chip. Correct chip on order.

Battery power/RC works great with the K-27.  It's real easy on batteries.  Ran for over 2 1/2 hours on a Crest lithium.  That was with all lights and the sound.  No smoke.  Battery had not reached its cut-off point when we called it a day.

Those red classification lights have got to go. ;)

JD