thank you to all who responded to my request, i will defenitly avoid that engine , but i think i have found a beter one it is here
it says its a atlas/roco I know that atlas engines are good but the only roco i have eve heard of is the mini tank people, is this the same company?please advise
thanks
George
If you are looking for an Atlas bargain, look at the Atlas Trainman series.
You will be much happier with the Atlas over the older Life Like. If you ever see a Life Like loco your thinking of buying make sure it’s one of their Proto 1000 or 2000 models. These are great runners.
The main difference is the motor and drive system. The older Life Like’s use what is called a powered truck. This means that the motor is integral to the front truck and only these wheels drive the loco. Power is picked up by two wheels on the front and two wheels on the back. This can give you stalling problems, especially on turnouts.
The better loco’s like the Atlas and Life like Proto 1000 & 2000’s will have the motor between the two trucks with a drive shaft leading to each. All of the wheels drive the loco and all wheels pick up electricity. The motor will also be of a better quality than what is found in the older Life Like as well. This gives much better performance,
That Atlas/Roco engine was made in the 70’s. Very good runners at the time. Detail wise, the had issues with the fuel tank, battery box, & RH handrails(detail wise).
Jim