About a month ago I posted my dissatisfaction about a Bachmann Berkshire I had purchased. Many of you provided some helpful comments and CudaKen was looking for an update - so here it is and if anyone wants to provide some insight, that would be great.
First I disassembled the loco and found that it was in need of lubrication since I did see any from the factory. Second, I got rid of the Bachmann decoder and installed a Digitrax DH123PS. This virtually eliminated the buzzing from the motor and, after setting a few CV’s seemed correct some other issues. Third, I repaired a couple literal and figurative kinks in the track work and turnouts which were probably just ok but were certainly noticeable with the Bachmann. Just these few things have improved the performance and I think with a little more tweaking the CV’s it will get better.
I haven’t done anything with the weight. Right now the tender weighs 4-1/4 ounces and the loco weighs just under 15. Question - does this seem to still be a little light?
The other issue that just came up is a squeaky tender wheel - at least this is what I have traced the sound to. It doesn’t do it all the time. but it’s annoying enough to warrant attention. Graphite??
Finally, Bull Frog Snot. I wasn’t able to find a frog with a sinus infection but I did find a jar at MB Klein and it’s on order.
So, all that said, this will work out to be a good addition to the layout.
Glad you were able to solve most of the problems. I would guess the lubrication and decoder change helped a lot. The tender weight might need some increases once you get the traction that Bull Frog can give if you have sharp curves and steep grades.
In general, the weight is light if you intend on pulling a train without traction tires. It is probably hard to add a sufficient amount of weight so the Bull Frog solution will help that Berkshire to earn its keep.
I think 15 oz is light. The first two runs of BLI’s J1 Hudsons were 17 oz, and those engines were considerably lighter and smaller than the Berks.
It would really improve the towing characteristics of the Bachmann if you could find room for a couple more ounces of weight, but I think you will find BFS to be better than that, perhaps the equivalent of adding another eight ounces or more. It is amazing.
Up to 12 without the added weight or the BFS. Will do the weight tonight and I am looking for the MB Klein order first of the week. It is actually a darn nice loco for the money - maybe I just needed a good rant.
They are a brass kit from Precision Scale Company, and yes they are still available. I just bought four of them for this project direct from them a few months ago.
