I am wondering this because I might be buying one soon and need opinions on how good these engines are before i buy one. In case anyone is wondering it will be in the CP paint scheme
If it’s like the rtr AC4400 I have you won’t be real happy with it. It’s lightweight and can’t pull many cars without some considerable weight being added. Mine was also plagued with poor solder joints and pickup problems. The trucks had to be completely reworked and in the end the front truck had to be replaced altogether. I also had to replace the motor. The one that came with it sounded like an electric pencil sharpner.
its one of those new RTR models, i just wanted to get opinions on it before i go out and buy one and modeling the cp helps to because they had roughly 438 of them as of roughly late july of this year
I bought one recently and have been breaking it in over the past couple of weeks. It started out very noisy and jerky, but over time it has gotten much smoother, quieter and the starting voltage has gradually dropped. I think it will be fine. I just ordered a second companion unit for my coal trains so that should tell you something.
John Timm
I’ll use it most likely to haul grain trains, and let my gp38-2’s haul coal in a unit train or something like that
I just received a second Athearn AC4400. Unlike the first, it ran very smoothly and quietly out of the box. As I said above, the first unit eventually ran well but only after a break-in period.
On the other hand, my two most recent acquisitiions from Atlas ran like a champ immediately. I guess it’s all a matter of quality control–and a little luck.
John Timm
Some run very good right out the box and some don’t. My thought is to purchase it locally and have it tested on their test track before you purchase it.
CZ
LHS with a test track. If that were only true.
Not these days around here. I do remember the test tracks from years ago though.
I bought an HO engine from my LHS a year or so ago and it was dead, I was told I could have a store credit, no cash refund as the item was under warranty, I just had to deal with the manufacturer directly.
I am very pleased with my three Athearn RTR AC4400s. After some break in time they are great runners. Add some details like ditch lights and MU hoses and you are all set. I am sure you will be happy with them.
I added some pictures below of the units in the diesel service facility.
My tuppence worth on this - as ever - is to see if you can possibly afford the extra for a Kato copy. I’ve had a couple off ebay over the years for little money - certainly less than a new Athearn. Although Athearn are the kings as far as offering virtually every colour imaginable.
Mind you now that I look at the ones above this post I can see why you may be tempted.