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Post by acollins on Feb 14, 2014 8:43:19 GMT -5
Hey guys,
Just wondering if anyone has any of the newer Bachmann engines (RS3, S3 or S4 specifically).
Are they nice models? How are the drives? Easy to modify? Any issues, good or bad?
I am looking for two S-series for sure, with the AAR switcher trucks and possibly a RS3.
I've tried searching for used yellow box Atlas ones, but they have been more expensive than the Bachmann ones.
Just putting out there and thank you for any input you may have,
Alex
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Post by iomalley on Feb 14, 2014 9:50:04 GMT -5
The Bachmann S4 runs like a swiss watch (mine does anyway). I've heard some have issues, so test drive the one you get.
They are better for superdetailing than the Atlas' because the deck/pilots aren't white metal with moulded on details. The bachmann handrails are better too.
These new releases are not the old bachmann of 10 years ago...
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Post by lajmdlr on Feb 14, 2014 10:58:36 GMT -5
Both the Bachmann S-2 (not S-3) & S-4 are great runners. Mine are all DCC or DCC/sound. Only problem is there's only one # for each type. If you have more than one you'll have to change #s but it's not that hard. All mine are Santa Fe but the sound ones don't come w/ a Santa Fe whistle. And the Soundtraxx decoders used won't let you add any other sounds. May put another sound decoder in them & add a Railmaster Hobbies speaker also.
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Post by acollins on Feb 14, 2014 11:39:27 GMT -5
Sean,
Thanks. Your eval on your has me sold on a pair then. More so if they don't have that blasted metal walkway, which, I forgot about.
Andy,
Thanks for your eval. I'm going to be stripping them and making them into rebuilt S-4s, powered by 251s. Going to look very close to a S-6 when done or at least hope so. The decoder will certainly be changed out for a 251 one.
Thanks,
Alex
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pacbelt
Chairman
Building Layout #11!! ;)
Posts: 682 
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Post by pacbelt on Sept 15, 2015 1:08:48 GMT -5
.... Just to add (and bump!)
The newer B'Mann is MILES beyond what they used to be!
I have a RS-3 without sound, and a FA-2 with a "Sound Value" Tsunami decoder. They BOTH run smooth as silk, and the 244 sounds from the FA-2 is just sublime!
No they're not works of art in the details department, but they're reasonably priced....
But THAT'S what we're looking for, right? IMHO, they're the "blue box" of our time, and I couldn't be happier!
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