Bachmann 2-10-2 - Opinions and a Question

I just came into some money and want to purchase a couple of the new Spectrum 2-10-2 steamers, and admittedly, I am quite excited about these new models which is uncharacteristic, as I tend to wait for the 2nd productions.

First are there those out there that have one or two and can verify how well they run on your layouts? I am going to check the Spookshow site next, but would lke to hear from more than one source.

Second, my layout is all Kato Unitrak with minimum 11" radius curves. Are these sufficient to handle this loco?

Tbanks in advance

Ken "FloridaBoy" Willaman

 

I have one and it is a very good runner - does not derail through many Atlas and ME code 55 turnouts. Can easily take 13 inch curves. It bulls at least 20 cars. I'm very happy with my purchase.

 

Another winner

I have one and its right up there with the newer 2-8-0 and heavy mountain from Bachmann

 

I had to re-work mine as one of the frame spacers was not installed correctly.

 

The one I have, is smooth running, haven't tested max pull, but it walked off with one of my 20 car freights just fine. Can't help with curve info, have 18" minimum radius on the current layout.

 

Runs great, pulls a ton, works on Kato 11" curves. Would recommend to anyone wanting a larger steam loco......Mike

 

I was hoping I would have mine that I preordered from a TB advertiser for a big train show in a couple of weeks but I'm still waiting. Trainboard policy won't let me say who I ordered them from or who I didn't but suffice it to say that Bachmann may have developed a top notch product but their distribution system needs working on.

 

Thanks to everyone who participated in this thread!!!! Based on your opinions, my faith in Spectrum Steamers, and Spookshow's review, I am purchasing two, one this week and one next week, both DM%&IR units. Love that line!!!!

I decided to violate my self imposed rule of "wait for the second run", because I am getting them for a great price and immediate availabilty plus the factors above including your consummate opinions.

Besides, Bachmann's warranty and record is also a plus, which is becoming a serious factor today. I never gave a hoot before, but with the sophisticated mechanisms and lack of local repair people down here makes factory warrenty omniportant.

Thanks again,

Ken "Steamguy and FloridaBoy this week" Willaman

 

Mine runs extremely well. Thanks Bachmann!
Otto

 

I forgot to mention.......Spook's review and analysis of this loco concluded that this loco runs smoothly over 9 3/4" radius track. Wow. I guess the wheels have some lateral side to side flex and the center set of drivers have no flanges, so it makes it a sure candidate for the Bessemer and Shenango Valley, which will be renamed to Penn Western RR in 2012 with a new paint scheme. Hope to be able to post pictures by then.

Ken "FloridaBoy" Willaman

 

I like mine. It came from the second batch. The entire first batch went to a certain east coast dealer before anybody else saw theirs a month later.

BTW - Pulling power, so far 43 cars on level. I plan to work it up to around 50-60 with some fine tuning.