Bowser C-636 Update?

John Smith · Aug 14, 2015

swissboy said: ↑

Class lights issue

I'm not sure whether those little lights above the front numbers are really always called class lights. Bowser has tried to improve on those lights compared to most other models with such lights. Compared to the prototype photos, however, the inserts are too far recessed and they are also too small. And actually, they are also too colorful when not illuminated. Has anybody tackled this problem yet? I'm presently trying to fill the recessions with clear lacquer to create that glass look. Not sure yet whether it will work. I started out with a first tiny droplet in each hole, using a very small #000 paint brush. This first droplet needs to dry first, and thus fill the gaps around the inserts. Otherwise, the clear paint will keep running inside instead of filling up the front. I hope this will work as planned. I may also add a tiny bit of darkish paint to imitate the looks when not illuminated. However, the amount should be such that the light can still shine through.

Before I try this, I'd love to hear from others about possible better solutions. Thanks.
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Try using Testor's clear parts/window maker glue. I have used it to make "lenses" for a set of ditch lights.
Turned out great! JMS

BoxcabE50 · Aug 14, 2015

John Smith said: ↑

Try using Testor's clear parts/window maker glue. I have used it to make "lenses" for a set of ditch lights.
Turned out great! JMS
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How large of an area will it work? I have a couple of steam locomotive headlights needing lenses....

John Smith · Aug 14, 2015

BoxcabE50 said: ↑

How large of an area will it work? I have a couple of steam locomotive headlights needing lenses....
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For larger areas, I would recommend doing it in layers. That way the bottom will dry clear instead of slightly milky.
JMS

Mr. SP · Aug 14, 2015

oregon trunk said: ↑

I was disapointed in the motor that they put in the locomotive. My Atlas and Athearns has double the pulling power. I could pull only 10 cars on a flat layout and half that on a 1.5% grade. The Atlas have the pulling power of about 15 cars on the flat and eight on the incline. On my layout my C-425 and 424's, RS 1,2,3, are rated 2 cars per axle on the 1.5 % grade, and I had to put the 636 at a 1 1/2 cars per axle. It sure is alot of money for a locomotive that cant its weight. The motor is about as good as a Athean ready to run series. This will be upgraded as soon as I find a motor for it.
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I have two Bowser Alco C-636's and i can pull a forty car train with ease with them. Might check how well your cars roll. Could be cars with the brakes partly set.

oregon trunk · Aug 17, 2015

The cars have metal wheelsets, gauged, and free rolling.

swissboy · Apr 2, 2018

Well, it has taken an awfully long time for Bowser to get out the corrected versions. But THEY ARE OUT NOW!!!
Note that the left-facing model linked to in post #79 is now showing the correct tank size. That is because Bowser corrected the picture in their web site the post linked to. So for the moment at least one gets a fine comparison of the correct tank and the tank that is too small.

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Bowser C-636 Update?

John Smith TrainBoard Member

BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

John Smith TrainBoard Member

Mr. SP Passed away August 5, 2016 In Memoriam

oregon trunk TrainBoard Member

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