What can people tell me about Bowser engines? I have never purchased one before, but I am looking into it since they have announced they are going to release AS-616 for Duluth South Shore & Atlantic. It is the only engine for that road ever release…to my knowledge. Thoughts?
From what I have read here they are pretty good engines. I believe they have Kato motors and drives.
Nile,
Atlas released its RS-1 in DSS&A paint (two numbers) in 2007. They appear infrequently on EBAY.
At one time back when Stewart still owned them they were powered with a Kato drive, then Kato “bailed out” and Stewart had to go to a Kato “clone” drive mechanism which is still being used by Bowser.
However even though it isn’t a “Kato” drive it is still an excellent drive mechanism and should provide fine service.
Mark
The diesels from Bowser/Stewart are very well reviewed, and are known for their reliable and smooth running drives. They’re currently using the previously mentioned Kato clone drive trucks, and have a nice Buehler motor. If you get one, I think you’ll be very happy with it.
I own two Stewart/Bowser switchers (both are VO1000’s) and the operation and sound is top of the line, as far as I’m concerned.
At present, I’m awaiting the release of their new excutive line VO1000 in the GN (black paint) scheme, as it’s due out very soon. I own BLI, Proto and Spectrum lokeys, and I’d place these VO1000’s at the top of my current roster.
Bob
I have an AS-616 from an earlier production run, but I’m pretty sure it has the Stewart drive. It runs as good as an Atlas or Kato loco.
Far as the nice Buehler motor, with one dead one sitting on the bench and a second one starting to make some racket I am not sure about them at this point. Mine are old NIB Stewart’s from my LHS. Browser will not take care of the first one that died under there warranty. I oiled up the second one, and it seems OK for now. We will see, but I am crossing my fingers.
Cuda Ken