Hi Group,
I am thinking about purchasing a Tower 55 loco when they are released! I presume they will use the same motor as they use in their brass. Does the Overland brass loco’s run as smooth as an Atlas or Kato loco and how does their detailing compare to the Atlas or Kato?
Thanks in Advance
Overland Models are good runners and are highly detailed, but they do not run as good as Atlas or Kato in most cases, and certainly are not as quiet. This might be because they use brass and it amplifies the noise. In any case, they do run well but the drive system is unlike the Atlas and Kato design. I would not presume any thing about the new models unless you email Overland and get confirmation on the drive system.
I have always believed the Atlas and Kato GE cab is more accurate in shape and design than my Overland GE units. I am sure many would that is not true, but I am entitled to that opinion. It is subjective as I have no clear measurements to back it up.
With the new Tower 55 loco’s, it is unclear if they will upgrade the drive or use it like it is. The drive is sold and used a small gearbox on each axle that looks somewhat like a traction motor and each are connected by a shaft to drive them. They might upgrade the system to use a method much like Kato.
Overland brass locos runs exceptionally well. I even bought several drive chassis to put under RailPower diesel bodies. Have had no problems right of box for several years now.
own a 3 unit 8500 GAS TURBINE that has motors in both the front unit and also the middle Turbine unit. It is by far the most detailed engine I have. It is JUST as quiet as the 7 KATO SD(90/43MAC I have. The KATO engines do come well detailed but you will spend countless hrs putting everything on. The Overland models come 98% RTR.
Thanks for the replies.
I was browsing the Tower 55 website today and see they listed the motor to be a Cannon EN22 W/Dual Flywheels.