Question about Bachman HO "Russian Decapod"

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Anyone had any experience operating this loco on 18" raduis curves on a grade? I’m told though it has a blind driver that 22" is recommended.

Thanks in advance

2

If Bachmann says that a 22 inch radius is recommended, that usually means that it will have problems on any tighter radius and if you don’t have 22 or larger you should not purchase one.

We have minimum 22 inch radiuses (radii?) on our HO scale club layout and run several Bachmann 2-10-0 Russian Decapods. They may be able to go around a tighter radius, but the cab overhang is likely to pull the tender’s front trucks off the track and cause derailments.

3

I agree with Cacole - the front truck will cause the problems rather than the drivers.

Jon

4

I have the Bachmann Decapod and it comes with the blind driver in the center. It is also a very small locomotive and it’s wheelbase is the same or shorter than many other USRA locos. It shouldn’t have problems with 18 to 20" radius curves. I have run mine through 20" curves with no trouble at all. Bachmann specifies an 18" minimum Radius for this loco. If possible try the loco out before buying on an 18" curve to be sure.