Engine Recomendations for a tight 18" radius

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
21

Harold,

This site had the one I was talking about, but out of stock, due in March. But you sure can’t beat the price:

http://www.advantagehobby.com/231019/BAC51315/?pcat=1327

Frank

22

I just made the test for you and I am not very happy with the results. My model can’t haul more than 12 cars weighted to NMRA standards over flat terrain. Even my small NW2 switcher can do better. Except for a small light Bachmann Spectrum 4-6-0, it is the worst loco in my roster regarding pulling power.

I would have been happy to say it was a good puller but it is not.

23

Harold, I’m a pretty much old-school model railroader, so here are som old-school recommendations:

Mantua: Shifter (0-4-0 w/tender)

Booster (0-4-0T)

Big 6 (0-6-0 w/tender)

Pacific (4-6-2)

Mikado (2-8-2) blind drivers on the center drives)

All of the above will easily handle 18" curves, and being die-cast, they will pull as long a train you will need,

First-generation diesels (F3, F7, GP-7, RS-1, etc.

And, as previously noted, small Bachmann engines. (for looks: they aren’t any great shakes for power, though the Baldwin 2-8-0 does fairly well in that role.

24

Have a BLI 4-6-2 with traction tires. I do not have grades, but it pulled 17 cars on a small layout, train was long enough to be on several 18" curves at the same time. Seems to have plenty of pull left.

Good luck,

Richard

25

I run two of the BLI Hvy Mikes. On level or slightly undelating terrain they will haule 35 to 45 cars depending on loading. I haven’t tried on grades, but I don’t think they should have too much of a problem.

26

Richard

What kind of 4-6-2?

27

Those little Mantua steamers corner like crazy, I used to run my 0-6-0T around 15 inch turns servicing some industries, while out on the main it would almost handle as many cars as a Mantua Pacific. Short wheel bases make them rotate thru a turn easier.

Just remember, a sharp turn adds resistance, just like increasing a grade. and a

28

It’s a Brodway Limited Pacific with DCC and sound.

Have fun,

Richard

29

Our BLI K4 Light Pacific does 18" curves and Atlas #4’s with ease. We also tried a Bachmann Berkshire that failed the same track miserably.

30

Proto 2000 0-6-0 or 0-8-0. Both run great on my layout with 18" radius curves and #4 turnouts!!!