I just received the 2009 catalog, haven't had time for a thorough review but it's a much handier size to have beside my computer for quick reference. The text is a bit small for me, but overall very good quality. Nicely done Bachmann.
I noted a few significant changes in the lineup.
USRA Medium tenders have been dropped, along with two of the Medium Vanderbilts. Hicken style only available in Southern Pacific.
Hard to tell from the picture angles, but it appears all tenders have male connectors, at least no harnesses are visible. Perhaps a move toward better compatibility and consistency.
Spectrum 2-8-0 w/Sound, five of last year's models dropped, two C&O added.
Spectrum 2-8-0 non-sound, they appear to be history, available only in sets. I have four (3 new in the box) so I'm not too disappointed.
Seems to be a trend toward larger and smaller steam, with medium such as the Connies losing favor.
I only noted one error so far. The page for the 0-6-0 Saddle Tank Switcher has a "DCC on board" banner, but the features lists it as "DCC ready". If all the requests are a good indicator, it should be a popular item.
A notable improvement is recommended ("Performs best") radius for each locomotive.
Hi Bob: I haven't yet seen the 2009 Bachmann catalog; but will order one after I finish this post. I wonder why Bachmann doesn't offer the catalog in PDF format online? I already have several catalogs on the hard drive...this saves paper, gasoline, and doesn't take up landfill space. How about it Mr. Bach Man?
Just wonderin' in Bama,
Ray
Ray- Great idea. And the "printing" of the catalog would cost Bachmann $000.00! You have my vote!!- Mike
I disagree. My girl friend will leave me if I move the computer to the bathroom.
Bruce
Hey Bruce, I'm with you on that. I love the size of the new catalog (8.5" X 6.5"), it often accompanies me to the "throne room", and fits nicely in my small travel bag. The pages and binding are more flexible, and the book lays open without using a 5 pound weight.
Besides, a PDF version would probably be over 200 megabytes in full color, that would take about a month to download with my slow dialup.
Bob, do you take your small travel bag to the "throne room"? Get enough catalogs and this will save on the use of 'other' paper products. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
No, my travel bag is for our trips to Denver. Sometimes we stay overnight, and I always take books along because motel TV sucks.
Back on the farm, we had the Sears catalog. Dual purpose. :D
"....and doesn't take up landfill space"
We recycle when the time comes when the pages are so worn and faded . . . . .
Although online would be nice, till we can acquire a complimentary hard copy !
doug c
Yes, I would like to have the PDF catalog. Saves on paper. If Bachmann would sell the PDF catalog online for $5.00, I would buy it.
One thing that does annoy me is Bachmann will modify some of the products during the year and we find out through model rail road online shops.
Rich
I think we're "taking a dirt road". My purpose in starting this thread was to get member's reactions or comments regarding the changes, additions and deletions to the Bachmann lineup. New items you're glad to see, how the deletions affect your plans, what you had hoped to see added, etc.
I was a bit surprised at the demise of the Connies non sound, and dropping five sound models. I had planned on buying a sound version, but now I'll concentrate on adding sound to my Connie tank conversion.
The biggest disappointment to me was discontinuing the USRA Medium tenders. I have spent many a happy hour chopping and converting them into custom tenders, powered canteens, or other cars using the chassis and wheel pickups for various lighting effects. Oh well, tenders are very easy to scratch build. 8)
Hey Guys thanks for reminding me of the need for reading material in the "yard office". As we speak there is the latest issues of Model Railroader, Railroad Model Craftsman, the Micro Mark catalog as well as the last monthly flyer from Walthers alongside the command seat. Hmmm...Bruce you might just have something when you mention a laptop in the bathroom. I could do all my research AND order stuff whilst otherwise engaged.
Ray
I feel like I'm talking to myself (I do that a lot). I think we all agree that having magazines in the "head" can be handy in a pinch.
Maybe if I started a thread on "Throne Rooms", I might get a comment or two on the content of the new Bachmann catalog. :D
Sorry there Bob.
First thing I looked at was the Thomas sets. I plan on getting the Thomas with Annie and Clarabel set as a present for my nephew. For myself, as I sell my O gauge, I want to get Bachmann's new 2-6-6-2T mallet, and a K-27 this year.
Car wise, there is nothing new, and nothing I need. But that is good. I can consentrate on the engines.
Bruce
Received mine yesterday (and only ordered it Tuesday).
I'm primarily interested in On30 but will add the "Pegasus" set to my collection.
Was hoping for some addition to the On30 brewery cars and a Christmas car so some disappointment there...would also welcome an On30 version of the HO Open-sided Excursion cars.
As Mr. B is fond of saying, I will continue to "Anticipate."
Ned
I got a complementary 2009 catalog with my E-Z Command replacement. I haven't had a lot of time to examine it in detail, but did notice a few items I might be interested in.
I discovered That the C&O rostered a few 4-6-0's acquired in the Hocking Valley merger that survived into the early fifties that might be neat to have.
Catalogues - what dreams are made of.
OK Bob, no need for the throne room thread.
The catalog has some interesting developments, particularly for a C&O fan.
1. Apparently the C&O J2 mountain has disappeared, at least I didn't find it.
2. The Vanderbilt tender is still there and would be useful with the 2-6-6-2
to represent a class H-6 which was more numerous (and more popular
with the crews)
3. The 2-8=0 is a close representation of Class G-5, which was a Richmond
built ALCO rather than a Baldwin. Came to C&O from Hocking Valley
4. The Baldwin 4-6-0 is close to an ex- Hocking Valley that served on the
C&O into the 1950's
5. I found several diesels decorated for both CP and CN
6. Very attractive covered Canadian grain hoppers.
Now if the bank* starts loaning money anytime soon, my procurement department might issue a RFP for some additional motive power.
Tom
* 1st National Wife Bank and Trust
My Social Security check has lots of "earmarks"...locos, locos, more locos. Did I mention locos? 8)
I went to the fallen flags website and I was surprised to see both 2-10-2 and 2-6-6-2 engines on the Hocking Valley roster.
As nice an engine as the 2-10-2 is, it is in noway near the various odd ball 2-10-2's the C&O rostered. The most numerous class - Class B-1- had twin sand domes and a \Wooten firebox. This engine came from the Hocking Valley. I thought about this by adding the C&O long Vanderbuilt tender, but it still misses the mark.
Having said that, I wouldn't kick one out of the roundhouse. (CRR/SOU Interchange maybe?)
Tom
I like the size of the catalog, too. I received mine a couple of days ago.
My "library room" is being remodeled, so I have to use my wife's. I'm not permitted the stack of RR mags in her foo-foo room, so what I take in to study, I have to bring back out.
I'll have my "room" done in about a week. I keep having these thoughts about an around the wall in a 6' by 6'. Perhaps a string of hog cars so the smell would be appropriate for the area. ;D
You might also try rose scented smoke fluid? :D
Quote from: az2rail on March 09, 2009, 08:31:21 PM
I disagree. My girl friend will leave me if I move the computer to the bathroom.
Bruce
I thought that is why they invented laptops....
You put it on your lap on the throne....
Just make sure the webcam is off.
But, my wife doesn't like being called my laptop. ;D