Im thinking of asking Santa for my first steam engine and I want it to be a Pennsylvania K-4. What manufacturer makes a good DC K4? What are your suggestions or experience for a Steam virgin? [:D]
Thanks
ARR
I hear mixed reviews about the Bachmann Spectrum version, but there must be lots out there if you follow the blow-outs…if you have to get warranty repairs on one, you will have lots of parts. Bachmann has about the best warranty in the hobby. Try trainworld.com.
I don’t know anything about MTH’s version. I expect it is very good, but I like a close connection between tender and engine. MTH’s steamers, the earlier ones, seem to trail far behind, maybe so that tighter curves can be used.
I have the BLI “Platinum” series (the only model in the series, it happens) and like it very much. It is all metal, heavy, tracks really well (just like its prototype), and with an upgraded QSI or LokSound decoder, even a Tsunami if you are willing to fiddle with the values in CV’s 209 and 210, will make it a greatly appreciated addtion.
ARR.
The Spectrum K4 is light on its feet. I have a pair of them. When I first started running them they would only pull 3 heavy weight cars on the clubs long grade. I added a few ounces of lead hear and there and now they will start a seven car train on the hill. I also added sound decoders. They both run very good.
The BLI K4s is no longer made. Used units can be found sometimes.
The MTH K4s is over priced in my opinion. People who use DCC have had issues with their DCS decoder. I am not sure how they run on DC.
Pete
If you want a good K4 that will last forever find an old PFM Brass one. Many times the price is less than the MTH or BLI one, and it will still be running when one of those give up the ghost.
Rick J[2c]
I’ve got 6 of the BLI K-4s and I’m very pleased with them. Before the BLI forum was shut down I believe that there was a mention of another run of K-4s in 2012 so you might want to wait before buying another brand.
Werner
Thanks for the input gentlemen. I’m still shopping. 
I can’t speak for the other manufactures models but I have 2 Spectrum K4s. I have sound in one and the other is without. They look awesome to run them together with a coal drag. You also have the option of pre or post war pilots.
I have the Bachman Spectrum K4 Pacific. I have absolutely no complaints. Mine is DCC with sound.