I recently bought my second set of these (so I can do the A-B-B-A thing in ATSF). Now I need to convert the couplers from Rapido to knuckle. Has anyone attempted this yet? I notice that you practically have to take the whole thing apart to get to the couplers. Also, the M-T 1128/1129/1130 combination probably won't work too well on this one. The rear boxes on the A unit aren't big enough to hold even an 1128 insert. Any assistance would be appreciated.
I generally use a dummy coupler between Aand B units preferring to run as an ABA or an ABBA configuration. This way the A units have an MT coupler on the front for auto coupling and a Precision Masters dummy couler on the rear and both ends of the B units. Ususally this allows for closer coupling between units. Usually you are not uncoupling engines (especially B units) and the dummy coupler helps prevent accidental uncoupling . The Bachmann F7 model was released at about the same time as the Spectrum Consolidation steamer and has been lost in the spotlight that the steamer has enjoyed. How is this model as far as operational abilities? How does it compare with Kato, Atlas or Lifelike? Is it comparable to the older Bachmann Plus model ? Inquiring minds want to know you know!
I like them just fine, which is why I bought two sets. The B unit is definitely faster than the A. There's some noise but not nearly as bad as the originals. The grills are etched, not formed, and the paint job is excellent with nice decalling, including the "Flying Indian" logo. All in all I'm real happy with them. One thing missing, however, is numbers. The number boards are there but there are no numbers assigned. I'm looking for a decal set right now, or I might try making my own numbers on my ink jet printer.
