The spectrum SD45’s in N scale , are they a good engine to run?
I’ve got one of the Dash-8s. Mines an older one, and little beat up. But, it still runs good, despite the mutilated wipers. It’s not an Atlas or a Kato by anymeans, but it’s miles better than the regular Bachmann N cale offerings.
It may depend on what you are looking for. Some people don’t like it because the proportions are not correct on it. It looks more like a toy. If it costs as much as an Atlas or Kato, get one of those instead. For just running and enjoying, it should be o.k. The Spectrum deisels are nice running engines. If you’ve seen the engine and really like it, get it. The new Spectrum N scale deisels, in my humble opinion, are over priced. They are not as high quality as an Atlas or a Kato, yet are priced higher than either. Not only the cost but it ticks me off to see an engine in that price range lacking knuckle. Most new engines now have knuckle couplers installed with Rapidos included if you prefer them. I haven’t seen the price on the new SD45s.
I just looked at the model on Bachmann’s website and saw that it was priced at $90. That is better than some of their new Spectrum deisels priced at $135. Of course those are retail prices and you should be able to find it below retail. I still think that it should come with knuckle couplers, but since the new Spectrum deisels have coupler pockets, it should be easy to convert to Microtrains couplers. It looked very nice on Bachmann’s website. If you like the engine, it should be a safe purchase.
You may want to go to Brooklynn Locomotive Work’s website. They have these units for $57.49. It is definately worth that much. Other websites may have them that cheap or cheaper, but I trust BLW. They are safe to buy from.
NOTHING Botchman makes is worth crap!
And definitely not worth the money they ask for it!!!
Remember, “You get what you pay for.”
It’s kind of like buying straw. If you want the good stuff, you got to pay the price, However if you want the stuff that has already been run through the cow and has come out the other end, (Like Botchmann) it won’t cost nearly as much!!!
Get the picture???
gtr
REALLY??? Don’t know about their n scale stuff, or their diesels in HO. But they have been making some very nice steam locos in HO scale lately.
Jeff
…got one that’s 4 yrs old…just survived a (scale) 570’ drop and survived to tell the tale…so not really sure they’re “JUNK”
thanks for all your replies. i am in Australia and have been offered these locos for $45 au so that is a very fair price. The gentleman bought them thinking they were HO and now has offered to me at that price. I prefer Atlas or Kato but i think these will be ok for that price. They are brand new.
thanks again for your help.
cheers from downunder