Considering going to S scale. Information wanted

rg5378 Aug 13, 2013

  1. rogergperkins

    rogergperkins TrainBoard Member

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    My interest is in steam locomotives; I saw a very nice 2-8-0 that I recall as offered by SHS with DCC and sound. I understand SHS was purchased by MTH, but I do not see any information about this nice steam locomotive. I have my American Flyer from my childhood, but could really get interested if the 2-8-0 DCC and sound were available.
     
  2. Greg Elems

    Greg Elems Staff Member

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    Two things, American Models is sending out a very nice catalog now. And SHS 2-8-0's do come with sound and DCC. EBay has them periodically and a few hobby shops might know of some for sale. There is another yahoo group and IIRC it's Available S and the yahoo s scale list might produce what you want, you just need to ask.

    Greg
     
  3. rogergperkins

    rogergperkins TrainBoard Member

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    My impression of the S Helper Service 2-8-0 from pictures is that it was a very nice model. I check the catalogs at the local hobby shop to see what is shown in the 2013 catalogs that include S and have not found any steam of equivalent detail. Some steam is also much larger wheel configuration.
     
  4. rogergperkins

    rogergperkins TrainBoard Member

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    I am exploring information on S with DCC and Sound. I found a website and video where the person converted an American Flyer vintage locomotive to DCC with Sound. This required changing the stock motor to a DC one and then adding the Decoder with Sound. Very interesting, but I have found only one such example, no estimate of cost were given.
    He said he saved the stock motor if one wished to reinstall it.
    What are you thoughts on this approach? Thanks.
     
  5. Greg Elems

    Greg Elems Staff Member

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    It's all about time and money. I like DCC and plan on adding it to all my engines as time allows. I have two steamers, an old Putt 2-6-0 and an AM 4-8-4. The 2-6-0 is detailed about like the AM 4-6-2. I haven't run it yet so I'm not sure how well it plays with the cars and switches. I've been told it does well and is a smooth runner. Lionel is making several steam engines and they are scale down to the wheels which are more highrail with fat treads and tall flanges. I've heard that they've been successfully converted to DCC and the scale community hope that Lionel will offer them with scale wheels someday. IMHO conversions are worth while especially if you are planning on scale engines.

    Greg
     
  6. rogergperkins

    rogergperkins TrainBoard Member

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    I am still exploring the idea of purchasing a S Helper 2-8-0 DCC with sound locomotive, but I will need to get a DCC system. I already have the NCE Power Cab starter set; NCE has confirmed it will operate an S locomotive. I am awaiting a price on the NCE from the dealer from whom I purchased the NCE Power Cab. Lot of money to spend on my own Christmas present. :rolleyes:
     
  7. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    Better leave Santa some extra cookies and milk!
     

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