I found a nice FM H-10-44 Hallmark (KMT) brass model dated 1983 in an online shop.
What can I expect?
Will it be a smooth running model for the day by day operation? What kind of motor can I expect?
Is it a good idear to paint a brass model and use it on the layout as aswitcher or should it be used as a display only?
ps. I have absolutly no experiance with brass models. I just like this engine and would like to have it running on my layout.
And the answer is----- it depends. Generally an older brass model may have been considered a fine runner in its day,but compared to todays plastic models it is probably not as good a runner. It may have an open frame motor which may or may not run as smoothly as you would like. If you get it and are happy with it, fine. If you feel it needs upgrading it can be remotored and regeared either by doing it yourself or having somone in the business do it. As for painting, please yourself. Personally I paint my brass, but you can have it done by a pro. This seems to increase its value if done well. Put it under glass and look at it? For some this is fine, but you sound like you want it to operate. Again-- Please yourself. As long as you don’t beat it up it will maintain value. While brass may be seen strictly as an “investment” by some, it can be a fine operating piece of equipment on your railroad. As to the particulars of the operating characteristics of the loco you are considering, ASK the dealer. If they are reputable they will answer all questions honestly and to the best of their ability. Two engines exactly the same may not operate the same, so again ASK the dealer. Speaking from experience. Good luck with your purchase.
Walthers made one back in the late 90’s in plastic. It is/was an excellent runner. Check for it on ebay. They called it: H-10/12-44 . The “10” stood for 1000hp, the “12” stood for 1200hp. Both locos were essentially the same externally so Walters realeased it as one model.
Many of the brass diesels, (practically all), had heavy amp draw, and the mechanisms, as stated before, really weren’t that good, even for the standards of the time.
If you want it, get it, but be prepared for a loco that has a very loud, whiney motor and gears that grind. Some shimming under the gear towers can make the loco grind a lot less, and the motor should be replaced with a good one from NWSL for example.
I’ve owned, worked on, brass of all types, steam/diesel/electrics, since the 1970’s and every piece of brass has needed some tweaking. But unless you’re experienced in mechanisms, take it to, or send it to a mechanic that can make this a good runner.
Thank you all.
I’ll refrain from brass engines via online shops.