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International Hobby Corp. HO scale USRA Light Mikado
Seems like a good value for the price. A mechanism this good would be worth the lack of detail as a trade off and one can add details to bring this up to desired result. I like that there is savings for no installed DCC. One can choose the most compatable DCC decoder for his system and needs then just plug it in.
Other than through pictures, I haven’t seen this model personally. However, I have no reason to doubt the review. Based on the reported performance of the test model and the presence of a DCC socket, I would consider purchasing one, if funds were available. I agree with the reviewer’s opinion about the “spartan” appearance of the model. While this may be a drawback to those who collect models of specific prototypes, for modelers who don’t mind changing or adding details or repainting, a generic model could be very useful. There is one question about the review I think should be clarified. The “Features” box states the “Coupled Wheelbase” (I assume this is the same dimension as that used for automobiles: first axle to last axle)at 80 feet whereas the review (second paragraph) puts it at 64 feet! Which is correct? (My money is on 80 feet.) lewis8501@cox.net
Very good. They (IHC) are improving their locomotives every time. Like the diecast frame.
I have both the IHC 2-8-2 and the 2-6-0 Mogel, that I have modified in keeping with my CNR type engines. The mechanisim is excellent as is the conversion to DCC, but the plastic formed piping attached to the boiler is much to be desired. When removed and Brass wire and Cal scale products are used it makes for a great pair of engines.
I own a 2-10-2 premier series locomotive from ihc and it runs very well.I added a digitrax decoder to it.I would recommend these engines to any one looking for a low cost addition to their fleet.
I really like these engines too. With their affordable size and price. THis would make a great addition to my fleet of engines.
I’d buy one if it was available decorated for MEC, whom I believe had 6 examples of the type.
My wife bought me this very same Mikado as a Valentine’s Day present. I am very impressed with how well it runs and I am looking forward to adding more details so it can be faithful model of good ole 4501. IHC makes some great steam locomotives for the money!
I have a few IHC steamers. I’ve never been disappointed in them. You get what you pay for. In this case you get solid mechanics and a starting point to detail and finish as you like. My Premier Line pacific rivals the performance of my Spectrum 2-8-0 for less than half the price.
I WILL BUY THE GREAT NORTHERN ONE.
I WILL BUY ONE.
Encouraging. I noticed that the front coupler was a dummy. I would hope that it is not hard to install an operating coupler in front. I still remember as a boy watching an IC 2-8-2 doing it’s own switching on a branchline. Am waiting for a long promised upgrade on the IHC 4-6-4 Hudson. I need it to complete my heavyweight passenger train.
As has been previously remarked, the basic boiler and tender have been around for a long time. I believe the original engine was brought out by Life Like. Unfortunately that front coupler is molded onto the pilot beam so it would be hard to mount a working coupler. Also the cab windows are modeled in the closed position. One would need to remove the rear set of mullions to make it look like a crew was on board. Just out of the box this engine would be fine for paddling around a Christmas tree but a real model railroader would want to add more detail and perhaps some weathering.
I’ve been eyeing the B’way Blue Line Mikado, shunning IHC based on other products I’ve purchased. I may have to give this on a second look!
This appears to be the same boiler and tender castings that AHM/IHC has been using for decades, albeit on improved frame and electronics. That’s a good start. If you begin with a reliable runner, kitbashing and detailing a plastic steamer can yield great results for the craftsman on a budget – I’ve done several!
I bought one of the 2-8-2’s before they upgraded and installed sound in it. It has performed well on a modular layout at train shows. It is possible to install an operating Kadee coupler in the front (at least in the version I have). I also have owned some of their other steamers and currently have a 4-6-4. All have performed well without any problems.
I have a slightly older 2-8-0 from IHC. It runs very nicely and I really like it. Mine runs as well as my friend’s Bachmann 2-8-0 although the detail isn’t as fine. But it did not have the current NMRA RP-25 wheels and so it hits some of the spikes on handlaid track of my friend’s layout. So I did not buy any more. I am very happpy that IHC has finally switched to RP25 wheels and will now be buying other IHC locos. I have installed a Kadee #5 (I must switch it to the new #58 semi-scale size). I was able to pull out the plastic one as it was a tight press fit not glued in. I cut the normal 1/8" loop off the Kadee shank so it would slide into the scale width coupler slot. I drilled a .035 hole into the coupler shank and then into the pilot. I used a shortened straight pin to press fit into the hole. If your straight pin is a different diameter use an appropriate drill to match. We use manual switching so the lack of centering is not serious. I have read a tip of using two bits of foam next to either side of the shank for centering. If you use the magnetic wire action feature, the coupler should stick out a little further so the wire of the coupler of the freight car clears the pilot. I wonder if I could purchase new RP-25 drivers and retrofit the new RP-25 drivers into my older 2-8-0?
Now if only we could have a 4-8-2?
I-have had their 4-8-2s,2-8-2s,2-8-0s and 4-6-2s since 97 and they have been great performers --I especially like the 4-8-2s