Lately I came across F7 sound locomotive on Ebay taken form Bachmann Thunder Chief train set. I am aware that starter sets often contain more or less toys rather than models. However, at a price below 80 $ for a sound locomotive I started to think seriously about it. I think I can live with what they offer mechanically. The question is how accurately do they represent the prototype? Detail-wise they will certainly leave a lot to be desired, but I am talking about the general look, proportions and so on. Are there upgrade possiblities to turn them into decent locomotives that can stand close to Genesis and Proto 2000 by adding lights, detail kits,…etc…etc…?
Walid, I have a pair of Bachmann Sound Vaule F7-A’s and I really like them! They pull very well and motors are quite. Really enjoy the sound even with a few short comings. Main thing that bugs me is the bell, when you turn it off it just stops unlike my BLI F7’s. Other than that [Y] from me.
Far as detais, well better that a old BB Athearn. [:-^] I paid $89.00 each for mine from Model Train Stuff and was well worth it!
Thank you all for your feedback. Further inspection revealed these are not regular reasonbly detailed, slightly generic Bachmann F-units, but real toys with a sound decoder inside. I acquired a used Athearn Genesis in a good shape, which will the subject of a different thread.