I have a set of powered N Scale Bachmann Spectrum F7 units(A & B) that I would like to break into two A-B sets. To do that I need unpowered units or shells. They shyould fit a Bachmann Spectrum frame. Bachmann tells me that they do not provide shells or dummy units.
Anybody have any ideas?
Thanks
KJ
Bachmann have offered unpowered units in the past - their “McKinley Explorer” set for one has a dummy F-unit in. These usually go for pennies at shows or on ebay judging by what I’ve seen. However, you may be able to find a powered loco and convert it for not much more - I was able to pick up a mint, unrun “Plus” F7B (the plating on the wheels was still immaculate - it wears off over time) for £8 last year. Just a pity it gets hot while running (as does the matching A unit) and I can’t figure out why.
You could probably do it…however some B units have different frames. I don’t know about Bachmann stuff…but when I swapped parts between a scrap Life-Like N scale E7A and E6B, I ran into some interesting problems. The B unit frame edges were square, while the A unit’s frame was tapered at one end. To get around the problem, I had to grind the frame down to fit.