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Topics - Fred Klein

#1
On30 / New Bachmann On30 Whitcomb Diesel
November 10, 2023, 12:27:47 AM
Well, I've been saving my pennies and finally had enough to indulge myself with a Bachmann Spectrum Whitcomb 50-ton Diesel #29201. It just arrived today and, after unpacking it, all I can say is that I am one happy camper. Again, Bachman did a great job with this locomotive.

First impressions: Lifting the Spectrum box out of its shipping packaging requires muscle - this is one heavy engine. It weighs a ton (well perhaps 50 O-scale tons :D). The locomotive came securely packaged in its suspended plastic sleeve and a quick examination revealed no obvious damage. Running the engine around my layout was pure joy. The loco runs very smooth (probably due to the weight) and quiet, with no discernible side-to-side sway. Acceleration was very smooth and it had no problems negotiating the 15-inch radius curves on my layout, even at max throttle on my Digitrax controller. Since I do not have any grades on the layout, I can't speak to how well it will do on an incline. Bachmann includes the horn and the bell as separate items and provides instructions on how to mount them. This involves removing the shell and drilling two small holes at the spots so designated.

Between this locomotive and the wood-sided side door caboose that I purchased a couple of months ago, to say that I'm impressed would be an understatement. I'm overjoyed!!

Keep up the good work, Bachmann!

#2
On30 / New Bachmann On30 Caboose
August 24, 2023, 05:31:08 PM
Well, I decided to break down and buy one of the new Bachmann On30 Wood Side-Door Cabooses - in my case #26702, the Bellevue & Cascade livery. The unit just arrived today and all I can say is "Wow!". Bachmann hit it out of the park again with this model. The caboose, which is divided into passenger and freight sections, has a full interior with functioning side doors as well as front and rear doors. The front and rear doors are easy to push open but a bit fiddly to close, so Bachmann thoughtfully suppied a super-fine (thin) stainless steel wire hook to be able to reach in and close the doors. The caboose also has led lighting in the ceiling.

Unpacking the unit and placing it on the test track with power applied causes the led's to light up nicely. I have not had a chance add the unit to an operating train but do not expect any issues since it tracks very nicely around the 15-inch curves and Peco turnouts on my layout.

Overall, I'm very pleased with this model. It is very well done and the construction looks (to my old eyes) to be top notch. I only hope that this is a harbinger of more great On30 models to come. Great job, Bachmann!
#3
On30 / 2023 On30 Annual
March 06, 2023, 12:03:34 PM
FWIW, I sent an inquiry to White River Productions asking whether or not there will be an annual this year. According to the reply, the 2023 On30 Annual is running a little late but should be available for pre-order sometime in April.
#4
On30 / 2021 On30 Annual
March 04, 2021, 10:58:17 AM
For anyone that's interested, the 2021 On30 Annual is now available for pre-order from White River Productions. Pre-order price is $22.00 plus free shipping. I just placed an order for my copy but I'm going to assume, based on past years that the book won't be available for a couple of months, which is a serious test of my patience  :D.
#5
Hi,

I've been working on my N-scale layout, as time permits, off and on for about 2 years and have decided to change things around a bit. Originally I was using a few of the Bachmann EZ track turnouts and have to say, the quality and reliability left a LOT to be desired. Since then, Bachmann has announced the new #4 and #6 turnouts and I was wondering what, if any, positive or negative experiences anyone may have encountered with them.

Thanks in advance,

Fred Klein
Okeechobee, FL