What is the best n-scale steamer......

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Ok guys, What is the BEST N-scale steamer you have, and why? Pics too, if you have them!

2

This is my best steamer:

However, I dropped it in water and it expanded to HO scale. [:o)]

Tom

3

Did you have to spray water on the layout to get it to FIT??

4

Did I already tell you that story??? Good one, wobbin’…[tup]

Tom

5

Perhaps some perspective here…

Spookshow’s N Scale Locomotive Encyclopedia.

Dave Vollmer’s N Scale Juniata Division.

Dave Vollmer’s N scale Juniata Division
Dave Vollmer’s N scale Juniata Division
Dave Vollmer’s N scale Juniata Division

6

tough choice between probably the only two steamers I may own in N: The Kato GS4

and my Bachmann Spectrum NP 4-8-2 Light mountain

It’s a tough decision, I can’t really choose as both locos perform to and above expectations even when running next to my diesels. Ultimately my steam fleet may grow as Someone convinced micro scale decals to run SP&S steamer decals so stay tuned for SP&S steam.

7

I have two Spectrum N&W J-class 4 8 4’s. One of which is the 611 “excursion” with the aux water tender. It is an excellent looking and running engine. It has operating magnetic knuckle couplers from the factory, and good loco-to-tender insulated wiring. A+ on this one! HOWEVER, the second one I got from Trainworld (#601) is TOTALLY different! It has (had) laquer-coated wires to the tender that were CRAP, and had to be replaced (not easy), AND had “dummy” couplers installed, AND a motor that soon burned-out and had to be replaced. I don’t know which of these is the “newer” version, but it’s hard to believe they came from the same manufacturer! The absolute, without a doubt, HIGHEST QUALITY steamer I have is the Life-Like “Heritage” N&W Y3 2 8 8 2. I believe this is the closest to perfection in N-scale you can get! The only drawback to the one I have is it’s the “first-run” that did not have traction tires. It is not the best puller in the world, but it’s ok. One day I will try some “Snot” on a driver set, this will probably help.

8

Didn’t Proto 2000 also make their 0-8-0 and 0-6-0 switchers in N-scale? The one in HO is a jewel. Like the Y3, I would imagine those switchers ought to be nice, as well.

Tom

9

Spectrum 2-8-0

10

For me it’s a three-way tie for first between my Model Power 2-6-0, Model Power 4-4-0 and my Spectrum 2-8-0. I’ve also found Model Power’s light Pacifics to be good runners as well.

11

I am in HO, but my buddys N kato Mikado is fantastic