I am an O scaler that acquired a bunch of N scale trains, track and scenery so I decided to take a shot at building a small n scale layout. I found that I really enjoy building on this small scale and the layout is turning out really nice. Now the engines and rolling stock that I have looks to be from Bachmann starter sets. I have a santa fe f-3 made by bachmann, it runs decently but every now and again it acts jumpy and sometimes I need to give the engine a little nudge to get it going. At first I suspected dirty wheels and they were somewhat dirty, I cleaned them and the track and the problem definetely improved some but still running at slow speeds and moving from neutral tends to be problematic. Is this happening because it is a cheaper engine or does this tend to be an issue with all n scale engines. I looked online and Kato seams to be a very popular engine but a little pricey. Could you recommend a fair priced engine that is of good quality. I am somewhat hesitant to spend so much money on something so small, especially since I am used to paying almost the same price for an o scale engine which is so much bigger and seams alot more worth the money.
That engine is most likely an old one. It probably needs to have its motor and contacts cleaned.
As for good quality, Kato has to be the best, but if you look you might find some bargains. I just recently got two of their F40PHs for under $130.00 but you’ve got to look for them. I suggest you do a google seach using N-Scale Locomotives as your seach words.
Some fellow N-Track club members said that Atlas and Athearn N-Scale locomotives were good too.
Irv
It’s likely due to it being a cheapo Bachmann loco. They (particularly the older units) are not known for making stellar N-scale locos. In general, N-scale locos these days should run much better.
If you’re looking for good F-units, Kato and Intermountain make some great units. Microtrains made some decent F-Units as well.
n1vets333, I model N scale and I’ve found that Atlas and Kato are “THE BEST” locomotives to buy. BTW I’m also into O scale ( Lionel)…Two different worlds and I love them both.
For my needs its Atlas all the way since they have the widest selection of locomotives and cars.
I also find N Scale easier to work on then my HO.
To get you pointed in the right direction price wise.
http://www.modeltrainstuff.com/N_Scale_Diesel_Locomotives_s/1458.htm
and
I have purchased about $2,500 of n-scale locomotives over the past 18 months (financed by selling off a few of my other hobbys on eBay) and during this time have determined that I will ONLY buy Kato (the best) or Atlas (a very, very close second best). Prior to my recent spree, I had owned a lot of n-scale locos more than 15 years old. When I purchased these newer ones, I was shocked at how good they run! However, it seems the few newer Bachmann and Life-Like I have purchased still run as poorly as the old days. I would like to try a few Athearn or InterMontain but have not yet so can’t comment on those. The quality of the new Kato and Atlas models is so consistently good there is no need for me to look elsewhere right now. Jamie
Here’s a far from complete overview of some recent N scale diesels.
N Scale Locotive Recommendations
There was also a similar thread to this a couple weeks ago. Do a quick search and I’m sure you’ll find it.
Lee
It sounds to me like atlas and kato are definetely the choice of most n scalers out there. From what I see on ebay looks as though the atlas locos are gonna be cheaper to buy than kato. I think Atlas is going to be what I purchase. Thank you for all the input, I will follow up with the engine I decide on.
Micro-Trains has a very nice selection of n scale engines
Try this site,it is fairly comprehensive & it gives a ton of information on older and “newer” N scale locomotives both plastic and some brass. The site rates performance, running, any issues you might encounter with most N scale locomtives. You will have to scroll down the page to find information on each type your interested in as it does not have a search capability.
George
You can’t go wrong with Kato or Atlas.
If you think you might go DCC at some point, make sure anything you buy is at least DCC ready. You won’t have this problem with ,ost of the KATOs but you may with the Atlas because there aree lots of older Atlas locomotives on the market, especially if you are going to buy them on ebay.
Irv
Micro Trains has released exactly one engine, an FT-A/B set. I don’t think they’ve run more than a handful of road names, and I don’t think they’ve released any since the original run. Not exactly a nice selection.
They have put locomotives from other manufacturers into their fantasy scheme and Christmas train sets, the Life Like GP-20 leaps to mind… But that only counts if you like holly leaves or popsicles painted on your locomotives…
Lee