I just purchased a new Bachmann 44 toner with DCC installed. Was wondering is anyone out there has any experience or opinions of this locomotive. I broke it in on my test track and so far she seems to be ok with one exception. The headlights are super super weak.
Any idea’s?
Mike
I have one of the DC versions that I installed a TCS M1 decoder in. The lights are somewhat dim but are satisfactory. It runs smoothly but needs extra care in keeping the track and wheels clean. It does a nice job of switching my coal fired power plant. I like it.
Joe
Mike,
Are you running it DC or DCC? Sounds like it has an incandescent bulb for a headlight.
If the headlight is weak and has a resistor, then replace it with a lower value resistor. (Actually, now that I ponder it more, Bachmann may have it weak on purpose in order not to overhead or melt the shell.) Better yet, replace the incandescent bulb with an LED. That will make it both brighter and preserve your 44-tonner shell.
Cute little buggers, aren’t they? [:)] I wish the NYC ran them. [:(]
Tom
Tstage,
I have one of the new versions of the Bachmann GE 44 toners that has the decoder already installed and has LED’s. Got one of the Boston & Maine ones. Plan on running it around the Ball Signal tower that you helped me out by providing your plans. Thanks again for those.
Mike
… and if painted black with orange stripes, they are handsome!
Mark
I have two single motor 44 tonners and they have the 12 volt bulbs. The bulbs in mine are ok.
Sometimes the bulb slips down a little in the tubular holder inside. Try to adjust the bulb a little higher and paint the back of the bulb with black paint to keep the light out of the cab.
In the below link you can see a You Tube video with the headlight coming on.
You can install a Digitrax DZ125 decoder also. I did that with a two motor 44 tonner.
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/163593/1801019.aspx#1801019
Rich
I have three of them. Two are the two-motor versions, one of which runs fantastic. I also have the newer DCC version, but I am not happy with it. I sent it back after receiving it because the rear truck would bind and pop the worm gear out. The one they sent back runs poorly; at all speeds it runs jerkily and the motor makes a noise like it is struggling. I took the thing apart, cleaned the gears and checked for flash, cracks etc. It still runs like dirt on both DC and DCC. I am sending it back to see if they can send me one that runs halfway decent. I’ve noticed with Bachmann 44 tonners that one either gets a great running loco or one that is crap. There is no in-between with these critters. Boy, they sure do look good moving a cut of cars around though! Chuck