Insane Broadway Limited Brass Hybrid 'Blue Goose' | Unboxing & Overview

A huge thanks to Broadway Limited Imports for sending over this outstanding ATSF Class 3460 to show on the channel!
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0:00 Intro
4:13 Unboxing
9:15 Prototype Info
10:29 Detail
20:17 Mechanism
25:01 Performance
31:40 Haulage
35:22 Final Thoughts

[@r.a.monigold9789]

I'm a Yank with only 5 locos, all Broadway Limited Paragon steam. My small space is N scale. My first loco performed miserably, I returned it with a stern letter. Within days I was sent a private KZbin video documenting the tear down, inspection and running test on their track. They politely suggested it was my track at fault and included instructions. They were right. They offered a full refund or return. I accepted it back, (ZERO charges) fixed my track and 10 years later it's still a great runner. Customer SERVICE won me.

[@SamsTrains]

That's fantastic to hear - I like a company with good customer service! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@TheAceofIron]

Wow. If only every other company ever did this kind of stuff.

[@jpmoney384]

Their customer service is stellar. When I had a board burn up they offered to cover it (the retailer replaced it) and in the event something comes loose or is damaged in shipping they will send parts if needed (like my SP&S E1 bell). About the only other manufacturer that comes close for me is Bowser.

[@LoganAnimates_Official]

i have the exact same problem right now! but in HO/OO scale. i got a new rerailer track, to see if the power supply was the problem, but i guess its my tracks, i did get most of them from Hobby Lobby after all…

[@mailstorminurbox]

Woah

[@willknipe9491]

For the record Sam here in the United States we don’t use vacuum brakes for steam locomotives or diesels. It’s always been air powered. if you’re not convinced by me talk to.hyce

[@NationalGuard5]

Congrats on owning your 1st BLI locomotive. They may cost a pretty penny, but they're worth it in the long run.

[@jasonanderson6583]

Amen to that

[@gilbertporter4992]

Now that they are bringing back stealth/dcc ready configuration back its a good thing, as their decoders were bad quality.

[@paulcaswell2813]

@@gilbertporter4992 The quality (from a British/European perspective) is dire. If you want to see what a brass model should be, take a look at Fulgurex - worth every penny. This 'thing', OTOH, is a toy.

[@mailstorminurbox]

@@gilbertporter4992stealth? THESE HAVE STEATH CAPABILITIES

[@rogerwindsor2130]

Sam does not own it, it was landed to him. Do you not listen to

[@adamrivera3327]

The $800 price tag is for the dcc sound and smoke models. The stealth dc models are around $600 msrp and around $500 at retailers. The quality is really great that i bought 2 versions, i do wish they came with drivers without traction tires. One neat thing on these models is when you remove the boiler and look under near the front you can see the locomotives smoke box door. Such a neat detail

[@stratman9449]

500.-$$ sounds more like it...cheers.

[@rayshowsay1749]

At about 2:30min, the prices I see are $799.99(BLI) and $679.99(Trainworld) for 'NO-SOUND/DCC-READY'.

[@adamrivera3327]

​@@rayshowsay1749my mistake I did not see the segment on the price. At the dealer that I pre ordered from the dc price was $589.98

[@Bdmrr]

@@rayshowsay1749for models that have been on the market for a while you can find them for less

[@Danthehorse]

Add in UK import duty, VAT and shipping, another 200 odd quid.

[@lugialover2496]

“Blue Goose” is a smashing good name

[@lawrence142002]

We gave our good trains some incredible names. Big Boy, Challenger, Yellowstone, Daylight, Commodore Vanderbilt, etc.

[@BrewPub]

Broadway stuff, like all handmade brass models, is on another level to traditional mass produced diecast stuff. They are reasonably priced if you compare them to mass produced Locos from Marklin, Bemo, Hag, Brawa, Trix.

[@gregl2419]

Brass is generally the highest quality in terms of detail and durability. The lack of relief is 100% due to the paint. I model canadian steam and almost all of the models of our prototypes are brass, a lot of them from the 1960s/70s/80s and they are still some of the best quality and will run no problem with a little bit of love. Far far better than any plastic I've ever seen.

[@sgkingly8392]

I agree, I make model aircraft often with etched brass parts which are FAR superior in detail to plastic but my very first thought looking at this loco up close was the paint is too thick

[@user-biggest1]

i only have 4 engines, 2 o gauge, 2 ho. the only plastic one of the 4 is an athearn blue box dash 9 that i overpaid for. i love the old diecast engines, they make such a performance difference.

[@JBofBrisbane]

Model railways is probably the only hobby that treats brass as a precious metal.

[@ronclark9724]

American brass locomotives put British Hornby and Bachmann to shame, although at a steep price...

[@stuartaaron613]

Sam, BLI's regular line of steam locomotives are not quite as expensive as their Brass/Hybrid series, yet do use the same high quality mechanisms. You may want to consider reviewing one of those in the future.

[@stratman9449]

i'd watch that.

[@joshuadupay1285]

Would love to see that as an owner of several “lower range” BLI locos, I would love same thoughts on it!

[@justinporter6236]

I have three BLI locomotives in my personal roster - 2-8-2 USRA Heavy Mikado in Erie, 4-4-2 E6 Atlantic, and one of their GG1's in Tuscan Red - and they are absolute darlings. Powerful, detailed, and the GG1 has the absolute LOUDEST horn in my whole shop. My Dad and I joke it would probably knock birds out of the air. Really glad you got to experience what makes Broadway a special brand.

[@someguy2741]

I think you need to keep adding wagons until the train comes all the way around and pushes the back of its own caboose.

[@SamsTrains]

Oh it could do that probably 2-3 times over, haha! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@owenlea6505]

Although you couldn't rate it, I'd say this Broadway Blue Goose is your new Railway/Railroad King! What a gift from BLI and definitely the best loco the Sam's Trains Railway has ever witnessed!

[@SamsTrains]

It'd be getting a good score if I did rate it - not sure about value - but everything else was banging! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@randytaylor1258]

It is what it is -- a premium model at a premium price.

[@paulcaswell2813]

What? It's a bulbous toy. Give me a 40-year-old Mainline J72 anyday.

[@mr.oliver_11]

@@SamsTrainsI would say value would be 3.5 stars. Hella expensive but hella worth it

[@SueBobChicVid]

The carpet really compliments the livery colors.

[@michaelhunt6621]

Complements, please

[@SueBobChicVid]

@@michaelhunt6621 It's a fair cop.

[@ajivins1]

It's got carpet too? That is detailed!

[@waynebryan1668]

The carpet killed the video

[@SouRwy4501Productions]

I have only one Broadway Limited model, but I have really been satisfied with it. The performance is pretty good, and so is the quality of the locomotive. The locomotive itself is a model of a United States Railroad Administration light 4-6-2 built for service on the Atlantic Coast Line railroad. It’s a very good locomotive, but it is also the most expensive one in my collection. I bought mine at a price of $325.99 counting shipping and taxes. It’s a beautiful engine, and I’m glad to have it as part of my collection.

[@Mike__B]

Yeah I'm on the fence for joining their conductors club and hopefully nabbing one of the Stealth 4-6-6-4 Challengers they have (8 more days to decide), for $250 + $30 for the club + shipping/taxes it seems like a fantastic price, but yeah it too would be the most expensive model in my collection.

[@stratman9449]

cheers...but 325 $$4 sounds a lot "better" than nearly 800.-$$....

[@ronclark9724]

I have a MUSEUM brass quality Burlington E-6 diesel locomotive I use with my Texas Zephyr train set... My favorite train of my youth running behind my back yard fence in the Texas panhandle... I still recall the Burlington T-bone steak in their diner on the way to Houston from Dallas... Amtrak needs to step up its game...

[@schuylerschultz804]

Interestingly enough, I actually found an old black-and-white photo showing a close-up of the drivers, and the center of the wheels was quite clearly a much lighter shade, so while it's hard to tell if they were light blue or silver, there's a good chance those un-painted axles are actually accurate for once!

[@willausterman3104]

It had white circles painted on the wheel centers in 1939, but they were larger. The axles were always hidden. Broadway actually released 4 time variations of the Blue Goose in their first run, I believe, including early 1939 with the white centers.

[@noahhorinek]

Personally, the Blue Goose is one of the first I'd ever buy, full stop. I grew up in BFE right in AT&SF territory, so this is the poster child I grew up seeing. I think the matte blue is more prototypical than you'd think and any picture you see where it looks satin is more a trick of the sun. Great review, Sam.

[@MorrisHillmanProductions]

BFE?

[@noahhorinek]

@@MorrisHillmanProductions bum f*** Egypt. It means middle of nowhere

[@noahhorinek]

@@MorrisHillmanProductions bum f egypt. It just means the middle of nowhere

[@davidmolin8944]

I remember long time ago I thought broadway engines were overpriced for what you got, this video changed my mind entirely lol

[@johnbradshaw5900]

Brass is a different hobby in some ways. If you get a taste for brass it can be addictive. I collect Japanese, Chinese and North American brass HO, while not cheap I don't buy many and overall I spend less than friends who buy mountains of OO or N models. Admittedly they get quite a lot models than I get but I really don’t mind that. I have models made in the 70's which are still excellent models and run like sewing machines. Not cheap, but very nice.

[@JohnNack]

I myself have only one BLI steamer, and a couple of diesels, all from a few donations to my train club. They all perform excellently, the steam locomotive especially. It’s a 4-8-4 (pretty massive) and can pull a tremendous amount of cars around the layout. I can say nothing but great things about all these locos!

[@bryantan863]

That was very kind of Broadway Limited for giving you the Class 3460 locomotive to review on channel your channel for free Sam. This model is the 1st model to have a metal body on both the locomotive and tender which makes this model an absolute power house monster because of its top notch quality mechanism. Shame that the model is very expensive but it is a fantastic model to own Sam.

[@DualorProductions]

Review for free, they are in getting publicity for it in return, not in a bad way either, as I've never heard of the brand before.

[@whispofwords2590]

They're n scale engines are the same way. All diecast

[@EsotericArctos]

This is defintely an amazing model. I think it is out of the price range for the average hobbyist, but if you want something extra special in your collection, this would definitely be an amazing addition.

[@matthewpastrikos7383]

It's nice to see Broadway Limited Imports give Santa Fe 3460 Blue Goose the recognition it deserves and make a model loco out of it, for Santa Fe 3460 Blue Goose is without question one of the most underrated and least talked about steam locomotives to ever exist so making a high quality model is a huge plus IMO. Thank you Sam for bringing this to our attention, hopefully when Santa Fe 3463 gets restored to operation they might give it a blue goose streamline shrouding as a tribute to 3460 and to pay a homage to the Santa Fe Railroad as a whole. To rate this locomotive model, i give it a 9.5/10.

[@frankgarcia6285]

I am pleasantly surprised to see your channel's broad range of model railroad equipment. I never thought I would see a review on a Broadway Limited Imports product on Sam's Trains. You have shown that anything is truly possible. I have always been a fan of Sam's Trains and will continue to view this channel as long as this channel exists. Yes, the premium price of a Broadway Limited Imports product does reflect the build, finish and overall experience. LIghtening does strike more than once so next time BLI gives you a model, I hope it includes smoke and sound. A long term review or test will reveal the best and worst of this fantastic brand.

[@TrainMaster04]

Congrats on getting one of these models! 3460 has had a very interesting life. She was originally not going to be the only streamlined locomotive on the Santa Fe. SF had ordered a 4-8-4, number 3765, to be streamlined like 3460 but was never built with it. Instead, it was delivered with the standard black paint but with stainless steel hand rails.

[@doge_sevens]

i never thought id see the day Sam, congratulations on your first BLI! I hope you end up reviewing the Rapido Canadian Pacific H1a/b hudson when those come out now that we know incredibly expensive models arent an impossible thing for you anymore, its basically the same level as this but with all the flaws you mentioned fixed.

[@TheAreotrain]

If you want to talk power albeit it is about the same cost as the Blue Goose, try their big boy. Took 125 freight cars no problem up a hill at the local club. Ran it with some passenger cars one day and one of the cars derailed on a bridge. The passenger car truck got hung up on the bridge and the engine didn't even notice. Instead the pulling power was strong enough to snap the truck in half at the bolster. Glad to see you had a chance to review a more premium model!

[@Sigil_Firebrand]

I had one of BLI's first ever models, about 15 years ago I had one of their NYC J1e 4-6-4s, they were crazy expensive even then, but they were the only US manufacturer at the time with factory sound fitted. Even that very first batch of models were phenomenal in every meaningful way. Edit: Forgot to add my partner picked up a BLI Norfolk and Western Class A 2-6-6-4 a while back, and that thing is even more of a beast. Even runs well on my shoddy track work!

[@warrenlehmkuhleii8472]

I don't think I would pay that much for a model normally, but oh boy does she look great. I wish Broadway Limited would start to make UK outline models because if this is anything to go by, this is what the Hornby Dublo Diecast Range is supposed to be and more. On the point of being a museum-quality locomotive, I would love to see them make a static model, because without the wires, the screws on the motion, etc, you really could put that in a museum display case. If they could make a static OO scale (but an accurate gauge) Flying Scotsman, it would put anything Hornby has done recently to shame, and I'd pre-order one in a heartbeat. Just an idea in case the Broadway Limited people are watching. Even if they made a ready-to-run A1 with all of those compromises back in, I may be tempted to pick one up.

[@philismenko]

I have been drooling at broadway limited for forever, especially my favorite loco, the y6b, happy to see you review their loco

[@DieselDaysandSmokeStacks]

Very nice look. I do wish you had done a regular review of the Blue Goose. If you join the BLI collectors club you can pre order a stealth Challenger steam locomotive. The pre-order is $100 down and an additional $150 when it arrives in stock. All up $250 for a large articulated BLI steam locomotive. I think it seems like great value. The BLI club cost is $30.

[@LegendRails]

Although 3460 is no longer with us, but luckily a sibling locomotive No. 3463, which is on display in the City of Topeka in Kansas and is also going to be restored to cosmetic or operational condition. No. 3463 along with 3450, are the only two surviving AT&SF 4-6-4s to be preserved today

[@CoalChrome]

I think the plan with 3463 is to restore it to operation.

[@bear470]

I just bought my second broadway limited model, I've been supremely satisfied with both models. Both are paragon4, one brass hybrid northern class engine, and the other a regular union pacific northern class loco

[@Mike__B]

I don't know if it's just me, but some of that light blue paint really looks like it's caked on, now I'm sure at any normal viewing distance this doesn't look bad, but yeah with that close up it was quite noticeable.

[@modelrailpreservation]

Same with the pilot and the silver paint.

[@stefanegger]

You mean powder coated? Not sure but would maybe be possible on metal objects

[@davidcook380]

Totally Agree Mike

[@gwill983]

Yep totally agree. The light blue is nasty in areas, in particular the vent area in front of the chimney. Yuck! I would say if Sam had paid for this with his own money he would have been much harder on it. But it is nice to seem something different showcased on the channel.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that's right - I thought it looked over-painted in places too Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@someguy2741]

I dont own any trains but I do watch the videos here often. The price actually doesnt phase me. If you are paying 1/3 and getting plastic of varying quality mostly by luck OR paying 3 times more and getting this? If it was me I would happily buy one of these compared to 3 plastic ones.

[@SamsTrains]

That's true - it's a crazy sum of money, but it's a crazy model! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@sullivanrachael]

@@SamsTrains- I have to agree with this comment. I don’t own a layout but will build one when time permits. I do watch a lot of your videos - I think this model really appeals. I do like rare and unusual models I have some kit built and scratch built models, some of which really are works of art. I have some Korean made FIA trains - Brighton Bell set, LMS 10000, and I’m looking for an A4. Once experienced plastic bodied models do lose some appeal. I also appreciate you generally get what you pay for, except when you buy Hornby and sometimes Heljan!

[@1471SirFrederickBanbury]

@@sullivanrachael which A4 might that be? Every single rtr brass and kit model has at least one flaw. If your looking at the Golden Age Models ones, I heavily advise you to look elsewhere, as the running boards, skirting, valences, and buffer beam cowling is terrible. Its as bad as the old Hornby Dublo model. The best thing all round is the Martin Finney kit, now sold by Brassmasters. The main issue though, is that the whole body is made of resin, so the best thing to do is to copy the shape of the accurate resin body (minus the buffer beam cowling) in brass sheets and then model the buffer beam cowling on the Pro-Scale kit (or photos of the real A4s), as it is the best in that regard, unless of course, if you are modelling the original "silver" A4s in early pre-war eras, where the Martin Finney and Hornby buffer beam cowlings are just about right. I hope you found this helpful, if a little sad. I know that I'm going to resort to scratch building to get an A4 that looks fully alright.

[@johnbradshaw5900]

This is my preference. The Japanese, Chinese and North American outline brass models I buy cost more than plastic alternatives but there's something beautiful about the finish. I am happy to buy less but get greater pleasure from the models I buy.

[@cmdrflake]

I have seen a BLI Atlantic type which is a Pennsylvania class E6s. It was phenomenal, pulling four heavy Walthers parlor cars and a head end car not exceeding 96m/amp, which ain’t bad. For 💩’s and giggles, we saddled it with ten Herkimer lightweight (Congressional) cars.

[@davidperkins3621]

Back in the day (I'm talking 60 years ago or so) American Brass engineered locos were sometimes available in the UK and they were always exponentially more expensive than UK made models. They were always very high quality although I seem to recall that they were supplied without mechs which had to be supplied and fitted here.

[@randytaylor1258]

The brass Shays with their working external mechanisms were absolute jewels.

[@AQuietNight]

The (Atchison, Topeka &) Santa Fe Railroad ran from Chicago to Los Angeles and all their name trains ran that distance. Their Super Chief was their premium ride and was a favorite of the Hollywood and Glamor set. It was one of the fastest cross country trains available.

[@shnorth888]

Beautiful model. The Ble Goose is one of my favorite steam locomotives. Years back Rivarossi also offerd a model of this locomotive.

[@James-Railyard]

I got the as delivered w/o number on the tender sides in stealth and she runs amazing at speed, I even have a set of passenger cars for it to pull and can it pull! Only downside is the piston slide on the engineer’s side (right) has come loose so I need to get that back on tight. Also that small detail piece is a speed recorder to go on the pilot truck.

[@PhillipBrodginski]

I own an older BLI diesel, and even their less expensive models are impressive. The inclusion of a Conrail caboose is definitely gonna set off some modellers and foamers, but I think it looks decent at the end of that particular train.

[@ErikG610]

They make very good engines. I have 4 diesels and 1 steamer with an order in for the Club Challenger. I don't know if it is available to you in the UK, but the club is a very good value, as is ordering a refurbished locomotive, which comes with full warranty. My steamer was roughly 60% of retail, runs perfectly and their customer service is excellent.

[@drosera88]

Nice. As an FYI, BLI never paints their axles, not really sure why. They are definitely known for their pulling power as well. One of the ways they show this off on their channel is by pulling a train of actual bricks with them. Also, I think the matte finish is prototypical. Most of their other models have a bit more sheen to them. Also, if you ever review another, I'd consider one of their 3 cylinder locomotives like the UP 9000; they actually have a working inside cylinder.

[@gamerfan8445]

FYI, stay away from the Blue boxes. Their decoders sucks.

[@reddin-on8mm]

I have a feeling it's for a function reason you know?

[@gamerfan8445]

@reddin-on8mm .maybe it lets you adjust the gauge of the wheels without damaging the paint

[@reddin-on8mm]

@@gamerfan8445 I was thinking about paint chipping when in motion caused by the coupling rods since unlike the rest of the wheel in a position to get scratched up though yours sounds more logical

[@randytaylor1258]

​@gamerfan8445 That's a beautiful mechanism.

[@MachRacer4]

The vacuum lines you pointed out on the tender are air brake lines. And Broadway does have a drive wheelset that lacks the traction tires available for sale direct from their website.

[@willausterman3104]

Some of their models also include the spare set at no upcharge. I forget which of mine came with them

[@MachRacer4]

@@willausterman3104 I think you’re thinking of MTH when they made HO scale steam engines. None of the Broadway Limited HO scale steam engines I have came with one.

[@willausterman3104]

@@MachRacer4 I'm definitely not thinking of MTH. I do not buy their products as the first thing I ever bought of theirs was a lemon that their horrible customer service refused to help me with. I wish they'd actually had been sold off instead of reversing course last minute. On the topic at hand, I know for a fact that my Paragon 2 USRA Light Pacific came with the extra drivers, and I think another older loco did as well. They don't seem to have included them in recent releases, unfortunately, though :(

[@railfanjackson4531]

At long last, your first-ever high-end American steam loco. All I’ll say is you chose well, absolutely love the Blue Goose. IMO one of the most beautiful steam locomotives ever constructed

[@therailfanman2078]

If you ever want more BLI engines I fully recommend looking for them at shows or get them online from other sites. I got a $500 reading T1 for $210 at a train show. And then a mikado for $80, and a NW switcher for $60.

[@OriginalBongoliath]

If he came to America, sure. In Britain, I guarantee you won't be seeing the few BLI engines over there go for those prices.

[@michaelstrains4014]

I have their Big Boy. Sucker weighs almost 53 ounces (around 1.5 kilograms for you Sam) and has literally pulled over 100 cars before. Definitely doesn’t need the traction tires though. Largely because of weight but also for operational safety. It has stalled a few times and because the tires grip the track so well the wheels can’t spin in place. Ammeter on my PowerCab has spiked stupid high as the Paragon4 decoder tries to compensate for the stall. Broadway’s decoders aren’t exactly the most reliable and I’m worried it’ll fry itself one of these days if I’m not careful. Still love the model a lot of course.

[@SamBarr-cx5er]

Having watched this video on the TV I didn't have the facility to comment. This Loco works out at about 4 times the cost of a Hornby or Bachmann equivalent. Hoever if it was purchased with sound then it would wok out at about 2 and 1/2 times the cost of equivalent sound loco's, I agree I think it is totally worth the money and if one is into Locos from the US, its a good buy. Its a pity we don't get the opportunity to get British equivalents. However I totally agree that traction tyres should not be used on such a beautiful, heavy model. and as you say they should have supplied a wheelset without traction tyres or give one the opportunity to purchase with or without traction tyres.

[@paulkandi]

American locos, steam & diesel have always been years ahead of us, no wonder people model US themed layouts, just because the models are superb and many sound fitted as standard, awesome piece of kit..great review...

[@Stoker58]

Broadway used to offer their models with a spare driving axel without traction tires. I haven’t seen this included in the box with any of their new offerings. It would be nice to have the option to remove them.

[@ernestpayton3114]

Broadway Limited locos are amazing. I have some N gauge. Well worth every penny. The company has impeccable customer service. I might have to pick this up. Amazing runner. Thank you for taking the time to present this video.

[@TB587.3]

I have a feeling this engine is gonna be in 5 of best model trains of 2024

[@randytaylor1258]

It's a shame that you chose not to evaluate it. Sure it's expensive but you have tested expensive equipment before. And testing this properly would show how a premium loco performs. You don't refuse to road test a Rolls Royce just because it's expensive. Congratulations to Broadway for allowing us to see what a jewel this engine is. Bravo!

[@paulcaswell2813]

It's not a Rolls Royce - for that you need Fulgurex. This is poor in the extreme. At that price you'd expect that at least the piston valves to work. And the rough finish would make Hornby blush. Awful.

[@stratman9449]

fair point.....

[@kiwitrainguy]

Sam didn't evaluate (give it marks) because he did not buy it himself.

[@CobbettWilliam]

What I like about American model trains is that they are geared to givea scale top spead.

[@srosa8517]

If that BLI Blue Goose was already that heavy, imagine how heavy their new Big Boy would be!

[@mr.meloetta1939]

dude really just got what is basically my dream model for FREE, I'm so jealous

[@fredburley9512]

Would look ace with a long rake of similarly liveried coaches in a great layout. Astonishing.

[@Steam1937]

Wonderful loco. Probably the only American/Canadian loco I would want. But that price! Oh and can you review some Canadian or German locos? I would find the German ones especially interesting

[@DaiElsan]

The real life German Locos are incredible beasts to see close up and personal. Being an expat living not to far from Chemnitz and the City's Railway museum, they have two Roundhouses jammed packed with Steam and Diesel locos, many in working order. So yes I'd love to see a few German steam locos being put through Sam's paces on this channel as well. Saying that I probably the only GWR nut living in Germany. 😊😊😊😊

[@Steam1937]

@@DaiElsanand I’m the only gwr nut in Canada XD! I really would like to see them though. In person and on this channel. I just think there so interesting compared to any others and if Sam’s willing to try Australian and American/Canadian engines I don’t know why he wouldn’t check out German or Austrian ones.

[@evanhizon8112]

I have the same one as yours in the 1950 livery, but mine has the Paragon4 sound. Yes, the price is insane, but some retailers will sell it for less, a bonus if you use a coupon code. Yes, the finish can be subjective, I agree, it is too matte for this, it would look better in satin or semi-glass to show it "in-service" since it is the 50's livery. Also, yes, some areas look "over-painted" because this is a BRASS-HYBRID model, The chassis is diecast and the locomotive and tender are actual brass. I actually took off the loco shell and tender shell to see the "unpainted" parts and it was brass. So not only do you have a detailed brass body that is like 98% to the prototype, but you also have the reliability and the simple, yet bulletproof mechanism of a diecast chassis.

[@TexasCat99]

I've never seen such a loco, but I am in love with this one. It's buttery smooth and beautiful in color. I see no problem with its matte finish; it seems to have a bit of satin. The paint is a bit too thick in some areas. But as a model builder, sometimes you cannot see such mistakes until you magnify or zoom in on the details.

[@Enea14PRR]

Hi Sam, great review!!! I have several Broadway Limited locomotives, all bought used, and they are truly a spectacle! the best models in my collection, together with my Mth cab forward! it's true that they are quite expensive, especially if bought in Europe, but in my opinion they are worth the price...in any case, beautiful locomotive, congratulations and greetings from Italy!

[@michaelsmith441]

Just an FYI broadway limited has their manuals on the website ( I guess to be eco friendly) but I have their 4-truck Shay on preorder. Absolutely can’t wait to receive my first BLI steam engine

[@johnathanmichaeljackson6155]

here across the pond, there's a reason Broadway Limited is the "Rolls Royce of HO Scale Steam Locomotives". -Sincerely, a Yankee that owns quite a few DCC-sound equipped BLI models

[@lindaoffenbach]

The colour scheme to be your cup of tea to put aside, the powder coating or enamel painting (whatever it is) does show quite some issues tbh; rough and untidy at certain areas. To be fair Sam, we'd be a tad disappointed but we also have to remind ourselves that metal and all those details are challenging. On the whole, the loco has its unrefined elements such as the cables from tender to loco and the draw bar, and fit and finish. About traction tyres. It's not about hauling but the ability to do inclines up to 4% with utmost ease. Again, all Märklin locos have them, and weights of ~800 grams are the norm. M QA tests them with wagons with each a load of 200 grams at 4% incline. Net result is power for ramps. On Ms they last for decades. Sometimes they will need replacement. In the M world, there is quite a stir that M have already dropped 2 tyres on bobo and coco locos; 2 instead of 4 now. But we still have them. Cheerio,

[@sargentrowell81]

You know, I can see them making a good case for the traction tires for a Blue Goose model. Maybe this one wasn't fully necessary, but there are plenty of gorgeous modern models of coaches and such on the market, depending on the manufacturer it could be tough. I have some Walthers Amfleet's for my Amtrak consists and my newer Athearn P42's (which are significantly better at pulling their trains than the older RTR releases) still can't really do a full NE Corridor set without another one as they do in real life. That's on straight and level track. I don't know much about the Blue Goose in real life, but I know that the Santa Fe went through some very mountainous terrain, so a proto-typical layout could entail some serious grades so, that coupled with some significantly coaches or coaches that just have a lot of drag could make traction tires a mandatory addition.

[@ltandrew1951]

My cousin bought a BLI Pennsy K4 at a train show and it is amazing. The only real complaint I have is the front truck isn’t sprung (which might have just been from it being at a train show)

[@wilde1909]

I enjoyed this video, to see a top notch loco was a pleasure. If the chance occurs again every year or two you might consider accepting a top notch loco and comparing them with each other. I think the comparison would be so different from your usual fare. This isn’t to knock them but how they are similar and different. The traction tires are probably necessary if you are building a scale model of the Sierra Nevada or Rocky Mountains grades as you probably need them.

[@SamsTrains]

Thank you! Yes I'll see how this video goes down - if people don't seem to mind it I'll look at doing it again! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@tommytorpey8482]

What an amazing loco!! This thing is so detailed and and it runs so well. I hope one day I can invest in one of these. Great video Sam!

[@user-fh7nw2vk4t]

When I was a small child, I learned to read with a book called "The Silver Streamliner". This model looks so much like that streamliner and so is very compelling for me. I'm never going to be able to afford one (and it wouldn't really fit in with a London Midland region layout in 1954) but I really appreciate the opportunity to see this superb model in action. As for the matt finish, that wouldn't be a problem for me. I like to weather my locomotives. The first stage of weathering always involves matting down the satin finish. I think if this model were subtly weathered it would look utterly incredible.

[@TomPrickVixen]

I do believe that traction tires on US and European H0 scale locos are a design choice by purpose, not do to the loco needs it. Even most of my heaviest European Co-Co diesels - Roco, Gützold, Brawa - have them (not on the US diesels tough, probably to run multiple of those without "killing" each-other but, on their steam locos do), as well ans on my stream locos even on expensive Trix made metal ones. Despite most collectors/modelers don't like it as well.

[@coffeeisgood102]

60 years ago I had the Lionel version of this engine, O gauge. Was very nice but not near the detail of this model. I am seriously thinking of ordering this engine. It would make a great addition to my collection. Thank you very much for making this video.

[@Brendon_up1995]

I have multiple Broadway models and they’ve yet to disappoint.. all their models are beyond amazing, adding to the detail, the DCC/Sound models sound fantastic as well as the addition of a smoke unit on them as well

[@mikelight]

Really pleased for you Sam. I have a couple of BLI locos that i run on my HO exhibition layout. I am pleased with them both. Both locos always draw comment from admiring viewers who praise the smooth and slow running, the level of detail, the diecast construction, the sound and smoke features. Most people here in the UK are stunned by the quality and detail of BLI locomotives. Congratulations!

[@TheHoveHeretic]

Wow! That is .... beeeyoootifull and soooo blue! That performance ..... Ooooh! You really need some hobos for them there boxcars.🙂 Dunno what term was used stateside for what you called 'wings' on the tender, but similar fairings on Bulleid Pacifics were always referred to as "raves". With old film showing prototypical 1940s/1950s passenger expresses in the US frequently loading to over a dozen heavyweight passenger cars, plus a couple of matching non-passenger bogie vans I can well understand why even a model that heavy could need traction tyres . The AT&SF network isn't entirely devoid of some testing gradients. Surprised you didn't mention that smokestack (there - I speak American!! That's the chimney to us). The gubbins astride the high stack allowed the crew to retract it to pass through lower tunnels. No idea if the Engineer or Fireman was responsible for its operation. If you were going to use one of those today, I'm guessing automatic operation would need to be a feature.

[@colinoldham7947]

The torque test nearly broke your finger!!! what a loco.....hang on a sec when I pop off and sell my car! 🤣

[@Gatherleymodeller.]

Awesome video. Hornby class 153 in fgw livery is definitely worth a look 😊

[@user-uk8jr6zc9l]

You are correct about the paint finish. The real Blue Goose had more gloss to it than the Broadway Limited version. I was let down by the plastic sparkle painted whistle more than anything else, such a small thing to go cheap on. The assessment and video were great so thanks for taking us along.

[@drosera88]

What's strange is that most BLI locomotives actually have turned brass whistles and fittings. I'm wondering if the finish is due to the whistles on the prototype not being brass colored, so they painted them to match.

[@willausterman3104]

The camera doesn't pick it up but there is a light gloss to the model. I have one myself, and it's not completely matte. There are also 3-4 versions BLI put out to represent her in her different time frames, and I believe the paint gloss was adjusted accordingly. By the 1950s, she was very matte compared to 1938.

[@patrickmurphy6775]

Fantastic! And one of my favorite real trains. Thank you for sharing this!

[@dalecherne5377]

@SamsTrains There are other Broadway Limited models that aren't nearly as expensive as this model that WOULD be affordable to you, if you ever decide to buy and evaluate one. Not all of them are brass-hybrids 🙂

[@PFR1]

Thank you. As good or better a review (I know you said it’s not one) than those done by people who do review videos of expensive locos like this one all the time and you pulled it off with a DC version without DCC and sounds. Commendable to say the least. I especially like, appreciate, and admire the way you remove engine and tender parts and shells to reveal the drive mechanism, decoder, etc. and talk about them. Marvelous. Thanks again.

[@lellopesce]

Actually ATSF 3463 is not streamlined. It looks like a regular Hudson. There is a plan going on for full running restoration, but it is still a long way away. Nice review Sam. I have about 5-6 BLI steam engines myself (though none Hybrid) and they are wonderful. I have changed to better decoders on my 2 Cab Forwards though.

[@nosecone5921]

I have one BLI loco, a HO scale PRR M1 4-8-2 and it's amazing. I'd get more if I modelled more in HO. It's totally worth the extra money! I save for longer and buy fewer engines, often only one a year. I love the detail and presence of brass locos.

[@jimmyseaver3647]

I might not simp for the Santa Fe, but I won't deny that the company was an American icon at its peak. When people think of that name, the logo and the trains are the first thing to come to mind, not the town in New Mexico that its mainline ironically didn't run through. Wild West train heists, the Super Chief, and GE widecabs running priority stack trains through the deserts of Arizona and California. Even today, you'll still see Dash-9s in their original Warbonnet livery faded to pink, yet still doing the same jobs on the same trains they were on 3 decades ago.

[@whispofwords2590]

man BLI is really upping their pr lately..

[@enforcer0175]

I have one BLI loco(although not a brass hybrid), the NYC Commodore Vanderbilt Hudson with DCC, sound, smoke, the works. It has a diecast body and is also extremely heavy, although my Athearn Amtrak Genesis might be even heavier. It has tons of power. I did a finger torque test for a couple of seconds at half speed and it spun the wheels, even with traction tires, with no problem at all. I'm just guessing but I think the traction tires are there not for extra pulling power, but to put all that torque to the rails. I think it would wheel slip like crazy under hard acceleration without them. Although that would also be cool to see. On DCC the control is fine, but my Dapol GWR Mogul has far more low speed control. I do plan on getting the PRR Q2 brass hybrid when it comes out, and after seeing how this performed on analog, I just might get an analog Q2 and chip it myself. BLI are the only ones currently making most of the PRR locos on the market in HO scale. In fact, The Broadway Limited was the Pennsylvania Railroads(and later Amtraks) premier passenger train running from New York City from 1912 to 1995.

[@DarthSantaFe]

I bought a BLI brass hybrid Dreyfuss 4-6-4 a long time ago, and even though it needed a couple adjustments out of the box, it’s still one of my best models! They used to include an optional no-tire axle with all their steam engines. About the paint, that flat finish is kind of an American thing, and I’m not sure why. Freight engines get pretty dirty, so that might be one reason, but prestigious and special engines like the Blue Goose were (and still are) cleaned all the time to keep their color and shine during service. Maybe the modelers over here started thinking high shine looked toy-like because of the baked finishes on the old tinplate toy trains, but again, I’m not really sure.

[@hara23scorp]

You lucky rascal! Wow, its mind blowing and amazing. The hard work and truthful reviews you've been doing for so long is the reason that you received this gift. Pls, dont reject such high quality and priced brass locomotives in the future also. Enjoy bro.

[@forzafan9733]

If you ever want to experience a BLI loco with sound at a more reasonable price, I would highly suggest looking into some of their Paragon 2 locos. I was able to get a Paragon 2 NYC Niagara for $200 and it was an absolute powerhouse with amazing sound. (And if I remember correctly it didn’t have tires). You could even use some of the sounds on conventional power without dcc

[@Shinyspddmn]

Looking at the details, it looks like your was overpainted a bit, I have 4 BLI's and the paint on them doesn't looks as heavy as what's on yours. Another thing that might be worth looking into is a coupler company called Kadee, they have a couple knuckle style couplers that fit into a NEM socket that you may find helpful for setting up longer trains with the American locomotives you test

[@the_one_who_is_many]

That is an absolutely gorgeous train. If it didn’t cost like 3x my entire track I might’ve thought of buying it 😅

[@Loweko1170]

That's BLI. They make superb models and charge accordingly. I've bought both new and second-hand and they're utter beasts. They do have a bad rep for reliability in the Paragon 3 era (looked like finicky pickups on the models I ran into trouble with - they need steady current to power all that stuff). But when they work, they work very well indeed.

[@SamsTrains]

Yeah that's right - there's no denying this is absolutely superb! Glad to say this did work very well indeed! Thanks for watching, Sam :)

[@goofygaming4641]

Got a BLI Daylight earlier this year… I have not been able to take it off of my layout because it just looks that good. I was also able to speak with their sales rep at a train show and honestly they are some fantastic people.

[@goofygaming4641]

20:05 it does… I’ve seen these locomotives run for over 10 years without any major issues.

[@fawnathefox9600]

I own a broadway limited 4-8-4 ATSF loco, she’s from 2007 and still runs just as it did when it was new

[@BeauMinnick]

Sam I an American I have 4 brass hybrids including this locomotive with all of the bells a whistles. I have a dozen other BLI steam locomotives. They are lovely models. Yes though American steam is expensive. Compared to what I spend on my British OO it's all pricy. Yes BLI locomotives are are heavy, very heavy. I don't get the traction tiers.

[@jonathanchalk2507]

Wow, it's the limousine of locos and a credit to Broadway.

[@Railfan105.]

Nice review sam. As an american viewer it's always nice to see some of our locomotives represented on the channel. A bit of a correction: at 19:11 you mention the Vacuum Lines. Over here, we use Air Brakes, not Vacuum Breaks. Besides that though, i didn't notice any other errors so good job on the research.

[@natemuska7252]

Hopefully if you are fortunate, Broadway Limited will send you the new T-1b Berkshires for Boston and Maine. I would enjoy watching your review on that locomotive.

[@vincebagusauskas278]

I knew of blokes who would buy only the unpainted brass models of HO gauge New South Wales locos and only display them. They were loaded to state the obvious.

[@MrBnsftrain]

I'm glad you were able to get a Broadway Limited locomotive! They make some of the finest HO scale steam locomotives on the market! If you were to rank it, I think it would be unfair to the rest of the models you review(ed). You're not the only person to run a Broadway Limited loco on a floor layout, as CraftyFoxe did with his Broadway Limited F3 diesel set. I was also expecting you to review some American passenger cars before you review another American locomotive. suggest Walthers streamlined passenger cars, Athearn Pullman heavyweights, and Bachmann Pullman heavyweights as those are much cheaper than Rapido and Broadway Limited ones. Although Santa Fe saved a lot of steam locomotives, including the oldest locomotive left on the roster in the 1930s, I am surprised they never saved the Blue Goose. I've seen 3463 in person, it's currently sitting at the edge of an expocentre parking lot missing lots of parts including its headlight and bell.

[@clockwork3494]

BLI is a company I've been looking at for a while now as I've heard nothing but stellar reviews and high praise for quality control, customer service and overall value for money. I've wanted a BLI 4-6-2 USRA Pacific in the CNJ Blue Comet livery for _so_ long but they're both incredibly expensive and hard to find outside the USA it seems, which is a shame but hopefully I'll find one someday.

[@Noodlewerfer]

I only have one Broadway Limited loco (and it's special to me), an HO scale PRR T-1. It has a plastic body, but it's large and has a metal chassis. It also has a very high detail level, very good decoration, and sound even with DC. I haven't even really had the chance to properly run it unfortunately because I don't have a proper layout for it, and it requires wider curves because the T-1 is a very large non-articulated locomotive. I didn't get it new and the only issue with it is one of the wires in the loco-tender connection plug is loose (but still functional), it was like that when I got it.

[@thunderturbine8860]

I've been waiting for a BLI video from Sam in a way (Though this is not a review, the Blue Goose is very impressive). Jolly good show Sam 🙂 The sound version of this locomotive does include a smoke unit as well, though, one word of warning for BLI sound fitted locos (Especially Steamers), they tend to lose their pickups randomly due to not having Keep-alive circuitry. I've had my two BLI locos lose their pickups randomly due to this (And the pickups and the track were spotless).