Hi
On my layout I have a very steep grade. I was thinking about buying a mantua classic 2-6-6-2 as a pusher. I was wondering if have good running quality and pushing/pulling power.
Thanks
The Mantua 2-6-6-2 has always been a good runner, with high tractive effort due to a traction tire. One limitation I have noted is that it is VERY VERY sensitive to vertical transitions.
I have both the 2-6-6-2 and 2-6-6-2T Mantua Classic locos on my layout. On their own they are not great pullers. They will have trouble with a 1.75% grade and a dozen NMRA weighted pieces of rolling stock. And I agree with one of the posts “watch out for verticle curves”. As for helpers, I would rather have them pulling in front, double headed with another engine versus pushing. Less chance for derailments at the rear. Just my opinion based on experience on my railroad. As for the quality of the Mantua Classics, they are very good. They run smoothly out of the box and installing DCC decoders is very easy;remover the 9 pin DC plug and replace with a 9 pin decoder.
Steve B.
Go for brass. ALmost any version of the old PFM Sierra 2-6-6-2 will pull the leg off a chair, and you can get them for about the price of a good die cast model these days - cheaper than most articulated brass. The NWSL Weyerhauser 2-8-8-2s are even better, although slightly pricier, but they have a long pilot deck, so they’re great as pushers on tight curves.
And while I’m thinking about it, the PFM D&SL 2-6-6-0s were pretty good, too - here’s a link:
Expensive, but durable and good looking.