PCM Brass Big Boy

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi,

I would like to know from you guys in America that have seen the PCM brass Big Boy in person or have heard reviews about it. What I would like to know just how good this is in comparison to the standard PCM BB? The pictures I’ve seen are not that many but what I’ve seen is extremely good. As you know, I have sort of an fixation about these beasts so I was considering, that maybe, just maybe, I would get for an ultimate display model.

So, what do you guys think about it?

Magnus

2

NOBODY TELL HIM lest Brass Bigboys become endangered everywhere but a large shelf in Sweden.

(I’m kidding bud but I don’t think you need 25 of them)

3

And why NOT! [:D]

You just give me one good reason…

Wait, that would be insane! I don’t need that many. But to have one on display in the living room would be nice.

Magnus

4

Magnus

I have several of the PCM Big boys, but not the complete 25 like you. I looked at the PCM Brass Big Boy at Caboose Hobbies and liked it overall. However, I have several brass Big Boys in addition to the PCM, Genesis and AHM models and would not purchase the PCM to replace any of my Key or Overland Big Boys. I still have an old Gem and have owned several Tenshodo’s and the PCM Brass Big Boy is much better than the older ones, but for my money is not better than a Diamond Overland Big Boy.

There are probably some that would disagree with me and I respect that opinion, but the Overland is hard to beat for the price they sell for compared to the PCM Brass Big Boy.

I really like the PCM Die Cast metal models overall for their pulling ability and overall running qualities. I modified some of mine to have the turbo generator mounted up top of the boiler above the firebox on the fireman’s side as they were all modified in the mid to late forties.

Go for the brass if you want to spend the money but it seems overpriced to me at this time. I am waiting for a fire sale or blow out.

By the way, I have seen it listed for about $2500 at one dealer so if you really want one, email me and I will give you the web site.

CAZ

5

I would second what CAZEPHYR wrote. It is just much too expensive in my opinion. For that money for a H0scale model I would expect a level of detail one could call complete for 1:87. But this seemingly isn’t the case. At photos I have seen there was missing a tender center sill, locomotive brake rodding and sand lines, and other things. Maybe it was a hand sample. But I saw some of these on ebay for much less than the MRSP - and still didn’t sell! This tells a story…

Try to find an OMI Diamond Series, and I think you will be satisfied. OMI models also run very good and reliably - no need to keep them on a shelf.

6

So, whats the conclusion. Based on private correspondence to. It’s seems to me that that the PCM BB is the best looking BB so far. But that you all feel that they are to expensive. I must say that is a pricey engine. But for a display model it would be great.

I’m gonna have to think hard about this.

Thanks you for contributing, I apreciate it.

Magnus

7

By the way, I checked with FDT and they are out and they seems to be hard to get new ones. So they can not be selling to bad.

Magnus

8

Magnus

It is not surprising to me that the brass Big Boys are sold out. The actual production run has to be very small overall and is probably under thirty five or fifty at the most.

Check to see if Caboose Hobbies still has the one on display I saw last month.

Enjoy

CAZEPHYR

9

I’ve been in contact with Joe and he will probably be able got a few a little later. So all hope is not gone. Probably a good thing for my economy if I have to wait for a while. I’m trying to buy a second house next to mine to use as a layout room and workshop so I can use the money for that in the meanwhile.

The more I think about these BB’s the more I want one. It would look so nice in my living room.

Magnus

10

I got the info that they are made in a VERY VERY SMALL amount. So if one wants one I think it’s best to act now.

Magnus

11

I couldn’t afford one of those! Looking at the PCM site, I found these are worth the price. 1st reason: Detail is soo good, the smokebox door opens & the superheater shows. 2nd reason: Has DCC & Sound. 3rd reason: It’s BRASS!

12

Your time will come, you are still young. How old are you? I’m 31 so I’m young to be here and that feels GREAT!

Magnus