This loco is only a little over a month old, and has relatively little run time. This problem did not exist at all until the last week. Ran great up until then. When it switches into "slow mode", it simply doesn't SOUND mechanical. No unusual noise, except a nearly inaudible growl, and runs perfectly. Best slow speed you ever saw, at HALF THROTTLE! Sounds like the old days when power packs had "pulse power" for slow speed.

Also, when this happens, SMALL increases in throttle have NO effect. You gotta rapidly goose the throttle to get it to run normally. Seems definitely electrical, not mechanical. Also, running only DC.

Does anybody know the procedure for removing the boiler shell from a Spectrum N&W J class loco? I need to access the motor to see why it runs beautifully, but will suddenly drop to a crawl, runs very smoothly but with a faint motor "growl", but with slight "goose" of the throttle, it takes off and runs normally for an indefinite period of time. Also, when this happens, the headlamp flickers very slightly, but still runs smoothly, but VERY SLOW. Due to slightly excessive motor noise, I suspect armature bearings may need lube. Have removed every screw I can find, but shell won't budge! Any ideas??

Mr. Bach-man, can you post a parts breakdown/ wiring diagram for these things?

As far as "DCC ready", I have no idea. The HO versions of these tenders reverse properly on DC, but one stays on constantly on DCC. I think in order for them to work on DCC, you must install a decoder. Since I don't have DCC on my N scale layout, I have no idea what they'll do. Guess I go inside one to see what's going on.

I figured that myself, having four of the HO versions of this same tender. The odd thing about this is fact that both of these are brand new in the box!

I recently purchased two N scale Spectrum N&W water tenders with "directional lighting". While they do have lights, front and rear, they both stay on all the time (on both tenders). I am running a DC only layout. Anybody know why this is happening?

Mr. Bach Man,
I am using a MRC Tech 6 controller to operate my many sound-equipped loco's. As it enables me to designate single-digit addresses to (up to six) locos, I find it interesting to run more than one train from the same controller (I also have the optional WALKAROUND). The problem is, the power pack is only rated at 2 amps. When running two or more trains, the unit goes into "overload", especially with lighted passenger cars. My question is: can the Bachmann part # 44910 "booster" be wired between the tech 6 and the track, and possibly take care of this problem? I use the Tech 6 because I also run a lot of older standard DC loco's, and the Tech 6 can switch between the two. I'm sure I would have to "switch-out" the booster when running DC (which I can do with no problem). Will it work? ! appreciate any input!
Thanks,
Mike Crafton

I have a brand new (first run) BLI J class #611 (no sound. DC) for a hunnerd bucks.  GREAT locomotive! mike_crafton@yahoo.com

Dear Mr. Bach-Man,
I have a Spectrum 2-8-0. I want to re-letter it for Union Pacific and install a Vanderbilt tender. Is the Bachmann part Number 89902 the one I want? Does it have the appropriate plug-ins for the wiring?