As I have said the past few years I wish WBB would come up with a Bluetooth app similar to Lionel's LionChief app so trains could be run with wireless remote control by any smart device.

I am surprised and disappointed that no one from Bachmann answered you.

Fred, the traction tires wear out after a few years and lots of running. I've had to replace them on two locomotives. Having a spare set on hand is a good idea though you shouldn't need them for a few years depending on how much you run the loco.

Quote from: LarryD on July 29, 2020, 10:41:47 PM

I'm wondering how much the lack of a controll system (like LionChief, or DCS) for the Williams line is impacting sales.

I don't run conventional so it makes a big difference to me. I don't think Bachmann has much commitment to the Williams line. Their business is primarily in HO and N scale. I hope I'm wrong but I don't expect much from WBB anytime soon, if ever.

Hihosilver, it all depends on what your plan is for your layout.

If you are trying to reproduce the real world in HO scale then 1/64 (S scale) vehicles are way too big. I would recommend Classic Metal Works HO vehicles instead. You can see them at your local train store or at online dealers like Trainworld. This is a link to Trainworld's Classic Metal World HO vehicles:  https://www.trainworld.com/manufacturers/classic-metal-works/classic-metal-works-ho-scale/

However, if your goal is to build an HO toy train layout where scale isn't as important as what looks good in your eyes then the oversize vehicles can work fine. A member of our club has taken this approach with his HO layout. You can see it in this video:  https://youtu.be/Dpz9N0CQ750

If scale realism is important to you then go with HO scale vehicles but either the scale or toy train approach can result in a fine layout.

My wishlist is the same as the last few years, O gauge locomotives, New York Central and Florida East Coast, with bluetooth control.

The only thing on my wish list is for WBB to make locomotives with bluetooth control (EZ App) and constant speed control. That is more important to me than a particular locomotive or road name.

Both are in control at the same time. DCC locos will respond to DCC commands through your DCC throttle and EZ App locos will respond to the smart device they are connected to. They two systems are completely different. With EZ App the loco is only getting power from the rails. It doesn't matter if that power is from DC or DCC. It isn't reading the DCC signals, just receiving power. It will do nothing until a smart device tells it to do something.

The one item on my wishlist is EZ App bluetooth O gauge locomotives.

I have had good results using 91% Isopropyl Alcohol. I let the plastic parts soak overnight and use an old toothbrush to remove the paint. The trick is to leave the part in the alcohol while scrubbing it. Alcohol is cheap and non toxic though it does smell.

Nice! Looks and sounds great!

Thanks for the photos, Wyatt. That really is a beautiful loco. Southern green and white is very, very attractive, and I'm not a Southern fan.

You did a great job. Those little details add a lot to the loco.

Very nice work. The chain and handrails look great.

O gauge engines (northeast roads, especially NYC) with bluetooth control. Bluetooth is more important than particular road names and loco types as you will always make something I am interested in and will eventually get around to others. Bluetooth control is way, way, way more fun than conventional.