I’m seriously thinking of adding one of these to my roster but would like your opinions on how it runs and if you think this engine will stand the test of time.
Thanks
Fergie
I have had 3 of them.
The first I bought, an undec, quickly developed a catch of some sort in the drive for the front set of drivers that would cause the wheels to jump a fraction of an inch off the track.
Before I ran #1 much I bought a second one, C&O, it shook like Santa’s belly going down the track. I took it right back and got my $$ back.
The first one sat a while and then when I began to run it I noted the catch in it’s git-a-long and after procrastination finally returned it to Bachmann with a letter describing the difficulty. Within 10 days I received a replacement, my third one, from Bachmann. I installed LENZ 1024 decoder in it and it is one smooth running engine, will creep along at about 1 inch a minute.
Overall the 2-6-6-2 is a beautiful engine and if you get one that runs as smooth as my third one it is a pleasure to watch. There is one grade on my layout that is a challenge for it with very many cars but most everything I own struggles there.
For the right price, I paid around $200, it is nice and Bachmann will work with you if you have performance issues.
I got one from my LHS before they came out on the general market. Out of the box, it was a smooth runner, and really powerful for its size. In fact, my 2-6-6-2 pulls as well if not better than the Proto USRA 2-8-8-2 up my grades (I often double-head them). I’ve heard horror stories about Spectrum locos, but the 4 Spectrums I have (2-6-6-2, 2-8-0, Heavy 4-8-2 and 3-truck Shay) all run just fine, thank you. I’d certainly reccommend the 2-6-6-2, especially if you want a small articulated with a lot of pulling power.
I Just purchased one and I love it! Its a great runner and a very strong puller.
Yesturday, I pulled 47 cars on level track and it had little trouble! I highly Recommend getting one! [;)]
Wholesale trains has a great deal on these Engines:
http://www.wholesaletrains.com/Search2.asp?Search=2-6-6-2&scale=HO
I personally recommend the weathered verson. Its nicely weathered and is a perfect price. You can’t find the weathered verson anywhere else for $200! [;)]
You probably did see the MR June 04 review
Hey there Fergie, the MR June 04 review says"A video of this model in operation can be seen at www.modelrailroader.com