Almost Gave Up on This One!

Viewer sent in his Bachmann Gen 1 Norfolk & Western J class 4-8-4 Northern with the dreaded broken axle gears. it was out of time, motor would not run and gear reduction gears were broken as well. Took 3 days of work to get this poor ol Gal running once again.
#classicmodeltrains
#bachmanntrains
#jclass
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‪@classicmodeltrains‬
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[@StephenCarlBaldwin]

Please know that all the stress, unhappiness, and anger you've been through has spared the rest of us from having to go through all of that. Wow -- talk about a must loco to avoid!

[@classicmodeltrains]

I'm just trying to make humanity a better place for all ;-)

[@MartinSBrown-tp9ji]

A smart modeler would never buy any product made by Bachmann, they make junk@@classicmodeltrains

[@tricenow]

Probably the best episode ever, between the tech the frustration and the actual Solutions, thanks for your hurt locker

[@131Basher]

The struggle is real! I gave up on Bachmann’s all together. Enjoy watching you work on them Ron!

[@classicmodeltrains]

It's like watching Rocky get punched in the face all the time huh? Then he wins at the end :-)

[@1964catt]

there newer locomotives that are not splait axles are good, now if we only had a list of years bachmann used split axles on there locomotives i could avoid those years

[@normancoreyBuildingTrains]

Great video. Unfortunately it's just bachmann. I buy the broken ones and build a chassis using old rivarossi parts. Bachmann makes the nice shells that rivarossi doesn't .A+ for your patience

[@thelittletug9321]

I love your videos man great stuff

[@classicmodeltrains]

I agree! Bachmann shells are super nice!

[@normancoreyBuildingTrains]

@thelittletug9321 Ron has really great videos and he is funny.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Bachman used to have a lifetime warranty. Not any more 😢​@@classicmodeltrains

[@keithhowell6833]

Rivarossi chassis, my next move ☝🏿

[@OgdenTunkRR]

Ron that little pancake motor and the magnets looks like the same set up in my Aurora model motoring HO slot cars can’t believe this is how they power those engines 😮

[@2nd66tube2]

It's all about the gear reduction

[@classicmodeltrains]

A few Fellers have mentioned that Frank

[@SMTMainline]

Good on you for trying to give this unit a second chance. These first gen Bachmann steam locomotives are such a nightmare, I don't know what the designers were thinking - I'd be curious to see how they ran straight from the factory. It's too bad so many have sentimental value otherwise no one would touch one with a 10 foot pole

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hello Harrison, Thanks for stopping by and commenting. The designers probably wanted a more robust powertrain but its always the "bean counters" (accountants) that want it cheaper. The shells are always so well designed and look so good and then the powertrain is junk. Straight from the factory there ran well because the gears have not aged, shrunk, and cracked. They were horribly underpowered and noisy. Sounds like their diesel loco power trucks when underway. About every 2 months I feel like attempting another Bachmann repair from this era, just to educate modelers to stop purchasing these from the eBay and wasting money. :-)

[@bigwoz78]

I worked on one of those months ago, not a repair just disassemble and oil. What a huge pain in the a**. I am done with Bachmann. Ron you have more patience than me. I probably would have thrown it away, or something like that, lol

[@classicmodeltrains]

Many have said the same thing. They would have made there's fly across the room ;-)

[@stevenwaller192]

Wholly Moley!!! Herculean effort and it barely goes. Thanks Ron for the great entertainment. Wondering if….. taking all the drive out of the loco and making a tender drive loco? The other great thing would be a Park display on your layout. Erect a chain link fence big enough to surround the Locomotive. Weather ( paint rust on drive rods etc white wall the wheels) the. Sprinkle itty bitty white dots to represent bird poop all over!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Tender drive would be an improvement. Lots of these B Manns are doing static displays on lots of layouts im sure.

[@user-fq4wm7rl8i]

Ron love your videos I'm not one of your 33%s I'm one of your 100%s. You are funny with your content and one of my favorite videos is the complete restoration of the bottom of the barrel American flyer. Wow what a restoration 🚂🚃 😊

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you! That A.F. repair was quit a turn over as well

[@watchtrainsnow1099]

Sorry for your pain, but that was a funny video. I enjoyed very much!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@azmike1]

Thanks Ron! You are a great mechanic!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank for watching!!

[@HARPO1ME]

Found a source for different size tubing .They are in different makes of Pens and spray bottles . We all just throw them out .Had a vision one day .Hope this helps.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Great idea!!

[@josephv.agliatojr.851]

Ron just gave a lesson in perseverance, adapt, improvise, overcome, you never give up, tremendous patience and very talented model railroad mechanic, regards, Joe

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you Joe!!

[@DestroyertheRailwarrior]

The 611 is my favorite engine and there have been multiple occasions where I almost bought one of these off ebay, glad I watched your video. Love your channel and always rooting for you to complete a rebuild.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Gen 2's are a bit better. But I would make sure NOT to buy Bachmann one no mater what version it is.

[@DestroyertheRailwarrior]

@@classicmodeltrainsnoted thanks

[@scale_model_apprentice]

I bought some 3D printed gears for my Bachmann U36B. They worked perfectly, and now I have a Brand New Engine!

[@UrMomsChauffer]

Do you have a name or link where you bought them?

[@classicmodeltrains]

Right on!

[@philobeddo6048]

quick question where do you find the 3d printing gears , Thank's for your help , Philo From France

[@mloik1]

I have a pack of those same red micro files. I use them all the time. They're awesome. Welcome to the red micro file club.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Right on!!

[@ratsbird]

I am glad you had some success with his gears. I had success with his first production run. Had to file and glue them also. Good luck with more repairs on those Bachman's! Ratsbird, Richard T, West Fargo ND

[@classicmodeltrains]

Fargo N.D.? Your from the Motherland as Well??!!!!!

[@NotGavin]

It sucks that they were designed poorly, they are for sure good looking locomotives! Oh well.. what can ya do. Excellent repair job Ron! I’m sure this one was a nightmare haha

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks!

[@TheRobertSterling]

Hi Ron, thanks for taking one for the team. I can feel your pain, a friend gave me one. ....yeah a friend..lol. 😁. It was one of my first experiences with repairing...almost my last, but it wasn't. You did great at not throwing it the wall. As always, great video, thanks for sharing.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank so much Robert

[@ecidaho]

Wow Ron! I’m sorry that did not work out better!!! Virtually every Bachmann I own has broken gears (mostly N scale). It’s pretty to look at but dang… well best of luck with next project!!!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Erick!

[@OriginalBongoliath]

I remember in the 90's when I received the 2nd Gen? one that came in the Bachmann Plus box I was the happiest I ever been and it was my favorite. I sold it over a decade ago and bought a BLI one. Now that my tastes have changed for the higher end, expensive models I would never mess with one of these ever again but I still appreciate where I started from in the hobby with these clunkers when they were my everything in this hobby. 😊

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad to hear you still remember and reflect on your roots :-)

[@lotsatrains]

Great job Ron and I would not be too hard on yourself because I think the repair was a complete success and I agree that the overall design of this thing is just showing it’s limitations and probably could not do any better brand new out of the box than it’s doing now especially with that shameful motor struggling and cocking everything to push the gears and causing the derailing problem that I remember from having similar Bachmann locomotives as a kid and always doing this.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for the input :-)

[@jp_juice9233]

I’ve been eyeing a few of these on the ePay and will do a lot of research before I pull the trigger on one! Thanks for the info, and all you do!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Right on, Thanks!!

[@darrenrawlinson6344]

As soon as the gear issue raised its ugly head a few years ago i sold all my Bachmann stuff. Even the brand new and un-run. I'm so much happier! We have to deal with the "Mainline" range, which uses the same system of split frame and you soon become a dab hand with the Superglue... You're entertaining and informative as always Ron!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Are you referring to the Walthers Mainline locomotives?

[@darrenrawlinson6344]

No, these were a British range marketed by Palitoy but made by Kader and introduced in 1976. Well detailed bodies but terrible chassis with all the above problems. The N.E.R., J72, 0-6-0T was a game changer until the quartering went!@@classicmodeltrains

[@asteroidrules]

It's kind of amazing that Bachmann managed to put such bad gearing on this thing. I've suffered through gear replacement on their Shays a couple times and thought those were bad enough.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Shays.....HOLY MOLY!! Yup them are a tough row to hoe for sure!

[@rinnmhor]

What a bugger. Always disappointing when it won't come good. Herculean effort to try and get there. We've a whole generation of BR steam locos by Bachmann with split chassis and split gears to match this side of the pond. Great video as always.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you. Yes I hear that Bachmann has infested pretty much the whole planet with this engineering problem.

[@user-df6ld5rg3q]

As usual great content Ron. Between you and SMT Mainline you have convinced me over the years to never buy a Bachman of any kind. I will stick with my Athearn Blue Box and throw in an occasional Atlas and be a happy camper. Take care, Jeff.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Were helping modelers save money by educating :-)

[@khtrains]

Fantastic effort, as always! I noticed another issue on this locomotive that would have contributed to the poor running. The plastic wheel centres have also popped out of shape and will likely be interfering with the rods. I've experienced the same phenomenon on a Bachmann Branch Line (British) model. The British locomotives from Bachmann (which were formerly Mainline brand) also suffer from split axles and malformed wheel centres, so it doesn't just affect their North American products!

[@classicmodeltrains]

I did not notice the plastic centers being loose or causing interference with the rods. Ive seen it happen, just not on this P.O.S. Yes Ive heard the ones from across the pond are just as bad.

[@silvertrain7945]

Hey Ron. Thanks for another wonderful video. I will take your advise and stay away from the Bachman steamers. I do have an old Tyco I should put on the operating table and see what kind of frustrations I can come up with. Have a good one!

[@classicmodeltrains]

That Tyco will come around no problem

[@user-uk8jr6zc9l]

Well, I have to commend the fact that you held it together. If I would have spent that much time on that model the 10lb sledge would have done the final work. I do know that the springs need to be replaced before you get any power out of that under powered pancake motor. I cut the Athearn replacement springs in half. Great video as always.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for that trick of cutting the Athearn springs. Sounds like a good idea to me!!

[@trentmiller2870]

Again, great effort Ron. It’s not lost on us craftsmen.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you Trent

[@garykellerup3470]

Another fun video to watch. Good laugh too Ron. Seeing you angered and frustrated and knowing what you were in for. I knew you could get her done. Love your channel and look forward to Monday nights. Great job Ron. BTW...can I send you and old Bachmann to work on? LOL CYA next week. Thanks. G

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Gary. I think my next Bachmann video's will be running them off the layout table

[@garykellerup3470]

LOLOLOL!!@@classicmodeltrains

[@garykellerup3470]

And I will be there watching brother. 33%er here in SoCal!

[@thomasmoroney4993]

My favorite channel video of the week!…well done!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you Thomas!

[@waynebehm7853]

Thanks for another great video Ron. You definitely have the knack. Your videos will be referenced for years. You are a legend in the making for sure. Trust me, I know, I am old. Can't wait until the next one.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks so much Wayne!

[@johnschutt9187]

Sorry for the headaches. Thanks for the video

[@classicmodeltrains]

You're welcome John

[@scottudave4499]

Another great video, I like that you had the maker of the parts on your show, great insight.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad you enjoyed it Scott. Its nice to visit with the "engineer" of the part supplier

[@rwheatley0206]

Glad you made it through that one without having a heart attack buddy. Great video.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I wanted to quit several times

[@MozanaRN]

Your use of the tooth pick as a spring adjusting device will come in handy. I also like the small file set. I have one from years ago and will be looking for another set. My last purchase of a Bachmann steam engine was indeed my LAST purchase of this sort of locomotive. They look pretty and draw the purchaser to purchase one like a moth is drawn to the flame. Literally. Thank you Ron for posting this epic tutorial. Keep up the good work and best wishes. Sincerely, George.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks George. Sorry you got bit by another Bachmann

[@elsdp-4560]

Thank you for sharing.👍

[@classicmodeltrains]

:-)

[@davidvincent9713]

Nice job! Love all your videos!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you David

[@Tonyfishtail]

Your getting into heaven no doubt!! That really tested your resolve!!! I was really pulling for ya from the start! Your amazing. Great effort. Such a poor design its a nightmare. Love your vids keep em coming!😊

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Tony! I need all the extra credit I can get to walk thru the pearly gates :-)

[@dennisosborn5589]

Cool Video! I watched it all the Way Through! You're putting the Word Out for people that want to get their Ho Engines going, inspire of Mishaps! But it's how we learn too.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yes. Thats why I leave all my failures in the video. Fellers can learn what TO do and what NOT to do. But it always works out in the end. Just like the movies from back in the day :-)

[@rusty.ramrod]

Congrats on 12K subscribers buddy....!!!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks!!

[@bluesboyst]

That was an amazing effort Ron.....

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you kindly

[@williambruceboisjoli8455]

I feel your frustration. It took me 3 days and said enough, good work Ron

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks William

[@Roadrunner4447]

I’ve been binge watching your videos I’m not one of the 33% lol I watch from start to finish love the content 100% ❤❤

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you for all your support of my channel Roadrunner!!

[@Roadrunner4447]

@@classicmodeltrains your more than welcome 🤗

[@AEStudt]

Drove me crazy too Ron I'm slowly working on mine Gen 2 great video on this

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks. Hope you get yours going again

[@bobmp3832]

Ron I just enjoy your videos. I prefer working on larger o and standard gauge myself(much easier to see). I’ve worked on several of these in the past and I could honestly say my outcome was nowhere near as good as yours. They usually end up at the landfill in tiny pieces. Keep up the good work.

[@classicmodeltrains]

any more repairs like this one and I'm ready to switch to only O gauge ;-)

[@SleeperBBQ]

Well Ron what can I say my friend, sorry you went through all of this frustration, but I knew if anyone could save me from the Ars wipe that ripped me off it would be you, I can only blame myself at 65 years of age you would think the saying if it's too good to be true, would be imbedded in my head buy now. I love these 484 J classes and saw my chance at an opportunity for a affordable loco and jumped on it, they say we learn from our mistakes. I do hope someone that is looking for one of these 484 J classes for their collection does some research and finds this very informative/educating video. We live in a different world today where people profit from another's pain. I must say you kept it together better than I sir. Thank You

[@raymondleggs5508]

You're better off with Mehano(AHM), Lima, Fleischmann, Rivarossi (AHM), bowser and even tyco for older US outline steamers.

[@SleeperBBQ]

@@raymondleggs5508 Thank You

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks SleeperBBQ, If it weren't for you pushing me I would never had done another Bachmann steamer. Although it was tough, the experience was well worth it. This will make working on the next one even easier. Perhaps 10 to 15 of them down the road I will have all the bugs worked out and maybe be able to turn these turds into a silk purse. Maybe :-/

[@SleeperBBQ]

@@classicmodeltrains Cheers you earned it

[@dw5304]

​@@classicmodeltrains@SleeperBBQ if there are ever parts you guys need and can't find, please reach out :)

[@ArcadiaJunctionModelTrains]

You gave a herculean and noble attempt to get it as far as you could. All I can think of is a CD player motor and run in for a few hours on a circle of track see if it can work itself right. Even so, such a shame you put all that work into it only to be left so frustrated. Something tells me you will sort this out eventually.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I bet if it could get run in for awhile it would loosen up for sure :-)

[@NJEsperantist]

It would be a service to Mankind if you did a video on re-motoring one of these Bachman engines. I bought one of these and it still runs. Only had to replace the brush springs and clean up the motor.

[@classicmodeltrains]

it would take a heck of a lot of fabrication skills to re-motor one of these.

[@NJEsperantist]

@@classicmodeltrains Ah, but it would be a challenge!

[@doge_sevens]

im incredibly lucky, my friend bought me a gen 2 as a birthday gift last summer and it doesnt have any damaged gears or quartering problems, he didnt know that they had these issues as he models o scale but id say im lucky mine is in good running condition, i just want to replace the right side steam chest since it had that damage when he bought it initially

[@classicmodeltrains]

I hear there is some good ones out there

[@doge_sevens]

@classicmodeltrains even with the can motor it's one of my weakest locos in my fleet, it can barely pull 4 coaches lmao, love your videos by the way

[@azmike1]

I'm a 34 year Model railroad guy. G and HO scales. Bachmann Spectrum has a longer life than most other Bachmann stuff. But don't be fooled.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup, them spectrums can let a Feller down as well for sure

[@n4pwx]

🤠Good one Ron.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Dennis!!

[@normfredriksen1381]

What a great way to start my day.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you for that Norm!

[@Zebrails]

5:16 Makes for a nice museum piece or... accidently got dropped from a four-storey building, or hit with a hammer-like anti-aircraft gun... You lasted longer than I thought. John

[@classicmodeltrains]

I like your sudden de-acceleration syndrome idea the best!!

[@philliprowe2656]

I have a Bachmann Niagra like that but luckily it still runs well!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Good to hear your is still kicking

[@NextEevolution]

Really wanted a N&W Class J and bought one from the Bachmann Plus range (Bachmann Item Number 11315) with the can motor and brass gear/ flywheel combo. Not sure if that would make it a second gen or what but I do know I expected a better quality model for the prices I saw they went for and the price I ultimately paid. Really wish I saw this video before I bought it. I would have just avoided it. While the Class J I got does have the best smoke unit I've ever gotten on a model, I'm hoping i somehow avoid the broken axle and gear issues. The front screw holding the chassis was broken as soon as opened it from the box when it arrived.... Great attempt to repair this locomotive. While i'm dissatisfied with my purchase, it is at least NOT one of these. Hope to see more of your videos on my feed!

[@classicmodeltrains]

The brass gear & flywheel would have to be after the Gen 2. I have never encountered one of those yet. I hope yours is a good runner

[@NextEevolution]

@@classicmodeltrains thank you sir! Love watching your videos as I repair my own locos!

[@Trains-and-Railroads]

What a bugar! That little motor!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Sad wasn't it?

[@ekw221047]

Hi Ron, Love your work, also am amazed at your patiance & perserverance, so thanks for your how how to, have read many coments and agree with them all So im thimking it should be Saint Ron 😀 hehe, shame in so far away or id join for a "frothy Top" or 2 but 12,000 miles is a bit far as im from down under Australia Eka a 33%, keep up your great work

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you for all your support!! I have a few Fellers from down your way that stop in for a comment or two :-)

[@jameskleman5298]

I got one and it really makes you pray when you use it😇

[@classicmodeltrains]

I bet! Like running on borrowed time :-)

[@rgiordano8224]

Boy or boy, patience young youtuber!!

[@classicmodeltrains]

A lot of Fellers have been commenting that :-)

[@TomzTrainzandAccessories]

Ron, you are hilarious. That Charlie Brown Trombone Teacher sound was great, and all your other happy sounds working on it. LOL However, this was an excellent video! Your patience to work on these is great! You were able to get the ole Bachmann up and running again. Tom

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you Tom. Always trying to make the videos fun as well as informative

[@UrMomsChauffer]

Ron, I always appreciate your videos. These videos are extremely important and helpful. I now know to stay away from Bachmann steam. You also have a video for almost every type of loco I own, which means I can keep them running or fix them, instead of buying new stuff. You're a real lifesaver.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad to be helping out!

[@pathvalleyrailroad9277]

I don't know about HO, but Bachmann's N scale has gotten much better in the past 10-15 years. Not that they could have gotten much worse...

[@classicmodeltrains]

Good to hear that

[@ertransdiesel1860]

Awesome video, what a patience Ron,its not worth it whith those awful Backman trains, for me they go the garbage

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks 👍

[@davidkaralus7464]

Well... your first video got me to take apart my GS-4, which is a gen 2 with the can motor. I also bought the parts from Dan. Upon arrival of the gears and axles, I identified that the drive gear was wrong. So, I then ordered the gen 1 set, and that gear was not correct either. I emailed Dan, and then sent him the gear I took out, and he made me one. I believe that is why you now get both types of gears in the order.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Crazy how they are making so many variations of these drive systems.

[@dw5304]

​@@classicmodeltrains yep, like I said I believe there are at least 2 -3 versions of gen1 so who knows how many others exist...

[@johnblanton-fd3jf]

Great video ! I could feel the frustration because I've been there many times as well . When you were working on the motor brush springs I noticed that they look like the springs and brushes for T-Jet slot car , hmmm, there may be some Frankenstein experimentation on the work bench ;-) . By the way , I have the same loco , runs great going straight until it hits a curve, looks good on the shelf though

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yes these little can motors probably share some similar parts to the slot cars from back in the day.

[@jebbohanan2626]

I have three modern Bachmann steam locomotives 2-6-0 flavor I certainly hope I never have the split gear issues with them.

[@classicmodeltrains]

if there the newer DCC or DCC ready should be fine I believe Jeb

[@christopherdelgaudio9484]

U are the man bro! Great vid as usual.now i know why i dont mess with steam engines!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Christopher!

[@railfan475productions3]

the problem with the last time you tried 3d printed axles/gears is they were incorrectly sized, that and you'd need some needle files to clean out the axle holes

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yes but the resin was really brittle and broke. This resin was a bit more softer. Seems always need a bit of field machining for the final assembly

[@user-br3yy1nw2e]

You have the patience of Job! I would have put that thing in the trash after about two hours of what you went through. Love your videos though, keep up the good work 👍

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you!

[@rickestabrook4987]

Perseverance, Ron. You have it by the railcar.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Rick

[@regisbraga3833]

Ron your face at 5:20 is priceless🤣🤣🤣. Although the general appearance is good, Bachmann pancake motor locomotives are pure crap. Sorry that you’ve spent your huge talent and almost infinite patience in this… “thing”. Do me a favor, please: see my comments on the Athearn GP40-2 video (IMHO you BEST video till now).

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hello my Friend! Yes this repair just kept going and going. The Feller that owns this Loco really loves it and the seller really ripped him off. I kept on working on it to make him happy. If it was mine I would have never attempted a repair because I know its a bad runner to begin with. Sure they are pretty to look at and there only useful place is on a shelf.

[@jamescotter5376]

Great video I really enjoyed that you could tell you you're getting mad and I'm sorry to say I was laughing because he was the way it was happening I like the comment if it would have been mine you would have been against the wall that thing needed to go against the wall great video keep them coming thank you I really enjoy your stuff

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad you enjoyed James :-)

[@sfm_ferguson5033]

The Bachmann 2-10-4 has the same sized wheels and I fixed my bachmann gen 1 j class that way!!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Right on!

[@alaskarailroad3996]

Good try. I so much love your humor. God bless.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Try? I did get it running again. As good as the stock manufacturing could allow :-)

[@joezuccardo3245]

I had the best fix for a Bachmann 4-8-4 N&W J, I put a Bowser drive system in it and threw the Bachmann drive in the trash

[@classicmodeltrains]

I wish those we're still available

[@weekendrailroader]

I just convert these old Bachmanns into dummys. I use styrene tube by Evergreen to make new insulated axle sleeves. Once you get the quartering correct, JB Weld is an option to make the fix permanent. Maybe I'll try using a pair of NWSL Stanton Drive power trucks to convert a tender to a powered unit sometime.

[@classicmodeltrains]

A few have mentioned tender drives

[@alberthofer679]

Hi Ron, the 2 center wheels might have to have the flanges sanded off to go around the curves . Lot of the steam locomotives only have flanges on the outer wheels to accommodate for tight radius. Makes me want to find my Niagara. Ron...u the man

[@classicmodeltrains]

I was thinking them wheels had too many flanges. Wished I known better and had a hobby lathe. Could have fixed that when it was all torn down

[@leverettrailfan5414]

I have a 2-8-0 of this design that belongs to me because I got it from a family friend. I need to tear into it again... I had it workin, but a wheel slipped on me again! haven't tried new gears, but am now considering it seeing as there's some hope of them not breaking instantly. Has the same bitty little can motor! I think the idea is the reduction gearing gives it the required torque... but definitely not born to compete with a proper sized motor! I think the reason for that weird, springy open gear might have been to act as a clutch if the wheels were binding up too much- instead of the motor jamming up solid and roasting, the gear would just spring away. Not sure how else it could provide any benefit to the mechanism. I bet the gear you repaired broke because somebody tried to turn the rear wheels by hand when the loco didn't want to run. What a pain- can't say you didn't try! Usually after this much fuss, I stick something up on a shelf and forget about it for a few years. Then find it again, and have better luck. Or screw up, and repeat!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Great idea on why that big gear looks like that!!

[@MattKonsol]

Nice video! Yeah seems like those first generation bachmanns like those ones can always have issues like those cracked gears.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Matt! 1st and 2nd Gen have the same problems with their plastics

[@jamesbach2021]

Better double your beer ration after that one! Talk about tough sledding!

[@classicmodeltrains]

I agree. a 2 day bender seems like the proper reward ;-)

[@user-ru9uy2ei4p]

Ron, Bowser Trains used to offer repower kits for these. They don't make Steam Engines anymore, but maybe you could find one in an old school hobby shop, or EBay, or a train show. A better solution would be to find a M.T. H. Locomotive version of the N.&W. J.

[@user-ru9uy2ei4p]

Love your videos Ron!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Ive heard of these re-power kits but they are long gone or super expensive to acquire. Thanks for the compliment!!

[@WWIIREBEL]

I have one of those. I re-powered mine with a 5 pole, flat can motor. Had to customize the mounting for it though.

[@classicmodeltrains]

That would be pretty cool to see that creative engineering!! :-)

[@dalerobertson9394]

Yikes! What a hassle. Yet, you probably got it the best it can get for now. 33%er.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you Dale!

[@johnramirez5996]

Got 1. That Norfolk . haven't taken it apart yet. My mic went crazy. Don't know if it is battery or mic. So haven't be able to mic brushes for Southern Pacific daylight steam engine. But on Norfolk some of the wheels have issues. Dropping them does that everytime. Hopefully I can save it with as little as 1 or 2 times taking it apart. But at least I can go back to this video and see 4,5,6, Through 10 😂jk great video woooosaaaaa relax just a straight beer and get us another video to watch! 😂

[@dw5304]

Be aware I'm likely going to be working on fixing broken wheels at some point in the future, just have to get the funds for the hardware so there is a chance you can get ur wheels fixed without having to steal them off of other locos.... Not sure when but I'm currently planning on it.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Do you mean digital caliper? Yes them dang wheels do get messed up from a drop for sure. Thanks for watching :-)

[@dw5304]

Nope talking about fixing the broke axels

[@johnramirez5996]

@@classicmodeltrains yes my caliper is messed up.

[@robstrains441]

I have 3 of them bought 2 to repair one ordered those gears twice still no luck,I bought a brand new one from a estate sale never run ,put on track and it ran beautifully,so one day I tried running it again,to show on my utube channel , guess what motor cooked, I took motor out of another one it lit up and smoked,so mines a dummy I can put it behind a diesel and pull it I’ve spent over $300 on these three and 3 days work ,wife is ordered a new one with can motor.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Wow!! you've gone through a lot to get a Gen 1 going again. Hope the Latest Generation they offer makes you happy :-)

[@MygrandpasTrain]

Boy, you sure went through a lot of suffering doing those 4-8-4 Bachmanns, but it is still educational. You know, Bachmann had the 0-6-0 which only had one split gear to replace and are a lot simpler to work on. I'll have to see if that guy can hook me up with parts for my 060.

[@classicmodeltrains]

It was an excessively long repair for a pile of sh#* at the end

[@RayBoebel]

Hey Ron, I think I have one of the split frame Gen 2 Chessie 4-8-4's. Sure I mentioned it before, but it obviously has the gear issue. I've replaced them 2 times. Still sitting in the repair box. Not sure it ever will get repaired

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hello Ray. I have 2 more here that probably wont get fixed as well ;-)

[@jeffsikes5312]

the smaller sqare motor is a LIONEL MOTOR BUILT BY BACHMAN for them and it took me 5 of those engines to get one that did work right its still going 10 years latter.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Them smaller ones your referencing I have 2 of them. One in a Lionel marked GS-4 and 1 in a Bachmann labeled GS-4. Good to hear you have 1 that has givin' a long service life to ya :-)

[@gerrymichaud3851]

Hi everyone. I have a problem with an Lionel HO gauge train. Lionel hasn't been much help. I have an NEW YORK CENTRAL WATERLEVEL LIMITED passenger HO set, won at a Goodwill action. It was stated that he couldn't get the locomotive to work. The first issue was that the remote would fast blink. I found that there was a stuck key on the remote and fixed it. But the remote still would fast blink. The fastrack 12 volt output transformer is plugged into the barrel jack track, and I get a red light on the connector. There doesn't seem to be voltage on the track. It works if I use an old Tyco transformer with the wires touching the fastrack. Doing this, the remote will work as normal, and the train and tender work. I got a new Lionel MAGNELOCK 9" Straight with Barrel Jack Terminal to see if the train would work, nope. I used wires to connect the barrel jack transformer straight to the track and that works. I'm at PC tech and it's always the female jack in the laptop that goes bad. Could the male jack on the transformer be bad, even if I get a red light on the track? Like I said if you use wires on the original Lionel transformer to connect to the track it works. It's supposed to be a gift to my grandson if I can get it to work.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hello Gerry. The comments section of my video's is not a good resource for help with train issues unrelated to what the content of the video is about. The reason I say this is people typically did not scroll thru the comment section and read all the comments. There are Facebook user groups on Lionel trains you can join and ask this question and others will respond with good idea's on how to resolve this issue. Or you can contact me directly. Contact information is in the video description section of all my video's. I will try and help you out as much as I can but this area is not the place to do this :-)

[@johnbanicki7232]

Wow those bachmann are not very well made at all. One of my nephews bought one of the 'J' Class because it looked cool. Ran for about 5 minutes then the motor went up in smoke. We just sent it back to bachmann to repair. They just sent us a new engine. Newer stuff is better but that old stuff will make you pull your hair out. Thanks for sharing.

[@classicmodeltrains]

At least B Mann made it right for you. I hear they do that from time to time on the newer stuff

[@lnerj50productions32]

I got a model of the most recent version of yhe bachmann one with dcc sound for Christmas 😊

[@classicmodeltrains]

That should be a pretty nice one!

[@richardryan517]

Helluva an effort. I was getting frustrated too.

[@classicmodeltrains]

was it leaking thru the tv? :-)

[@Benthetrainkid]

That motor design was for the streetcars also by Bachmann

[@classicmodeltrains]

I'm sure they used that motor in a lot of things they made

[@Gregtrainmaster]

i saw a guy take a g scale bachman out of box put on track it went about 20 to 25 ft and gears stripped out he paid a grand for this for some real pain call bachman for service

[@classicmodeltrains]

That sounds about right for B-mann G stuff (from what I've heard) :-)

[@johnknippenberg-LandmarkYards]

Made to break gears, the only way to go! 💯🤣 I like your toothpick spring stretcher idea. I get way more cop car sirens at my place. It sounds like an electric pencil sharpener. What about the classic model?

[@classicmodeltrains]

Missed the Classic Model for this week. Video was so long as is I didnt want to make it any longer.

[@Militiaman71]

I bought one like that but the grey Union Pacific with Vanderbilt tender All the axle gears were broken. Took it apart and saw the pancake motor. It now sits in a parts drawer. I just needed the tender anyway though the road numbers don't match the one that does run. The tender was a bit beat up also.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I really like that loco and tender combo!

[@normfredriksen1381]

I wonder if the designers over at Bachman thought "Wow. This looks great on paper." 🙄

[@classicmodeltrains]

Rest assured !! Every idea looks great on paper :-D