MTH Russian Decapod Questions

[Anonymous]

I have recently spoken for one of the Russian Decapods (in ACL) on order at my favorite LHS, and have a couple of questions:

1. My layout curves are 0-48 (FT). My alleged 0-54 Dreyfuss Hudson (Lionel) takes them without difficulty. However, the minimum curve on the Decapod is listed as 0-54 as well. Does anyone have any insight (I know this is tough, considering no one has the engine yet) based on general experience with MTH as to whether this might be a problem for me? All my other MTH stuff is 0-31, so it has not been an issue.

2. Does anyone have any idea when this engine will be shipped? I am eagerly anticipating its arrival.

Thanks as always for anyone’s assistance. This engine looks absolutely awesome.

[fifedog]

First off, it’s a handsome engine, and I’d love to have one in WESTERN MARYLAND.

Better read the fine print, it takes O-72 curves (O-54 with scale wheels). Those 10 small drivers will probably “walk” up and over the O-48 curves you have. The Dreyfuss’s High-steppin’ drivers are probably more forgiving, and probably not all flanged.

Depending on if they get enough orders, you’ll have a 9-18 month wait.

[jefelectric]

First off, it’s a handsome engine, and I’d love to have one in WESTERN MARYLAND.

Better read the fine print, it takes O-72 curves (O-54 with scale wheels). Those 10 small drivers will probably “walk” up and over the O-48 curves you have. The Dreyfuss’s High-steppin’ drivers are probably more forgiving, and probably not all flanged.

Depending on if they get enough orders, you’ll have a 9-18 month wait.

fife, I know I’m a nit picker but with scale wheels that is 54" radius or 0-108 to us 3-railers. Just [2c]

[fifedog]

Not totally sure, John. Don’t the scale wheelsets have deeper flanges? I’ve learned that when the manufacturers give a minimum radius, it’s usually for a good reason. I’d hate to plunk down some major coinage, like our friend Raleigh is, to test those recommendations.

[Anonymous]

First off, it’s a handsome engine, and I’d love to have one in WESTERN MARYLAND.

Better read the fine print, it takes O-72 curves (O-54 with scale wheels). Those 10 small drivers will probably “walk” up and over the O-48 curves you have. The Dreyfuss’s High-steppin’ drivers are probably more forgiving, and probably not all flanged.

Depending on if they get enough orders, you’ll have a 9-18 month wait.

You are correct, they are not.

I am now quite worried about the curve issue. My LHS is ordering the thing anyway, so if I change my mind (I’ll get the ACL Premier 0-6-0 instead, but it ain’t a Decapod!) it is no big deal.

I have this horrible vision of a $1,000 engine simply walking over the curve and crashing to the floor (shudder). Hm.

If anybody else wants to weigh in that would be welcome, but based on Fife’s knowledgeable comment I will probably change my order.

[fifedog]

RTF - You do have plenty-o’-time to build that O-72 loop, in case you just gotta have that Decapod.

FYI - The Russian decapods the WESTERN MARYLAND had gave them fits for—“walking” off the rails…so you could be just like the prototype.[(-D]

[Anonymous]

RTF - You do have plenty-o’-time to build that O-72 loop, in case you just gotta have that Decapod.

FYI - The Russian decapods the WESTERN MARYLAND had gave them fits for—“walking” off the rails…so you could be just like the prototype.[(-D]

And I certainly would do that, but I lack the space!!!

[rpc7271]

i don’t want to argue with you guys but iI founs a users manual for that loco from 2008 that says it will operate on 042 curves. The 3 rail box says 042 curves, I can’t find a 2 rail box.