This Really Wasn't That Bad. Mid 2000's Bachmann GP-40 DCC Ready Service.

[@regisbraga3833]

Very nice work Ron! You are becoming our “Tutorials Master” on how to disassemble, properly service and reassemble our little gems from Tyco, Athearn, Train Miniature, Walthers (at least the Trainline ones), Mehano (labeled as AHM, IHC, Model Power or Life-like), Hobbytown of Boston and now Bachmann (not to mention your stupendous work on Lionel and American Flyer). Thank you so much on doing that! Keep doing and posting!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Regis :-)

[@ArcadiaJunctionHobbies]

Great video. Thanks for reminding me why I will NEVER go DCC and will remain forever happy with DC.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you, and I agree with you :-)

[@Xtream__Attitude]

Each repair you get better and better :) great video as always Ron :)

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks! Practice makes perfect :-)

[@RayBoebel]

Nice one Ron! I will mention one thing with these Bachmann DDC Ready or DCC Installed loco's: watch that jackshaft! I have an F3 that the coupling on the worm gear side slid on me and when it went around my 22" radius, that jackshaft disconnected. I should have shown that on one of my "Tales from the Bench".

[@classicmodeltrains]

Did it jam up and break? Hope the loco and it's gear set is OK :-). Thanks for watching Ray!!

[@RayBoebel]

@@classicmodeltrains No. All it did was go from 8 wheel drive to 4. I also noticed that truck screw which was my first adjustment. Second adjustment was to slide the coupling at the worm gear towards the motor about 1/16th of an inch or so. That seems to have fixed it for the moment.

[@classicmodeltrains]

@@RayBoebel very cool!!

[@billfusionenterprise]

@@RayBoebel early bachmanns were 4 wheel drive

[@RayBoebel]

@@billfusionenterprise correct, but this loco (similar to Ron's) was DCC that I downgraded to DC. These DCC and DCC Ready locos are just below the Spectrum line and were produced staring the the 2010's and they are 8 wheel drive. The issue with mine was the drive line would jum out at the motor taking it to 4 wheel drive which doesnt work for the weight of the loco. It would stall on corners

[@invisiblesniper4]

I have never seen a KZbinr so interactive in their comments as you. The video was helpful because I had a similar problem

[@classicmodeltrains]

You left such a nice comment and a storm knocks out our power for 8 days so it takes me forever to reply to you, but finally made it. I hope you got your Bachmann serviced up and running well once again!

[@deweyhall712]

Nice collection of BIG STEAM on the wall..

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks! :-)

[@SantaFeBob]

Another fun video. I love the 867-5309 reference messages. Very well done. Liz Taylor is always memorable. Especially to her multiple husbands. You did great on this video. The engine runs so smooth. The Master 20 MRC controller is the best DC transformer as far as I am concerned. I have multiple units. It has the tethered throttle to move around the room and it has more power output than any other. Great stuff Ron. I always look forward to your humorous videos. Take care.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@williammitchem8274]

Fantastic, Ron is back....cast your peepers on this....A feller was getting withdraw 👍👍👍👍🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@classicmodeltrains]

I got hung up doing re-paints. was taking to long for paint to dry. Switched gears and cranked this one out real fast (2 days worth) :-)

[@michaelmorgan7893]

First time seeing flywheels on a Bachmann GP40. Very nice.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I was shocked they were in there also!

[@bradwb6192]

Good thing we find it hard to forget how to read our own chicken scratch. Great job...

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup! Ive got some of the worst "chicken scratching". It's almost like a secret code. :-)

[@Rbs35405]

Just keeps getting better 😊

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you!

[@YippeeSkippie426]

This was truly helpful. Note that the wires from the PC board to the contact points on the trucks are fragile from being worked back and forth in the normal course operation; think of bending a paper clip back and forth until it snaps and you get the idea. I took my Bachmann apart for a little cleaning and lube and one of the black wires just popped right off with the slightest suggestion of movement. Then, the two wires to the other truck just popped right off. So, after some careful time with the soldering iron (along with the maintenance) this little engine is running better than ever.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad it worked out for you. Must have a lot of hours on your loco for the copper wires to be stress broken so easy.

[@ecidaho]

Thanks Ron! I will admit I have tried to stay away from Bachmann products in my locomotive purchasing due to the specter of the broken nylon gear, but this one is nice! I have an old Spectrum GP-30 that likes to pretend it’s really has an EMD motor and requires a long warm up period to run but looks very nice! Great work on filming your disassembles always easy to follow and see what your doing. Thanks again for making these, may give some newer Bachmanns a look at going forward! Need to see how their paint handles an alcohol bath, lol! P.S. I had completed forgotten that song LOL! 👍

[@classicmodeltrains]

I avoid B-man's for the same reason. The early ones up to '79-80 were good. 80's thru 90's BLOW. Spectrum stuff has bad gears......whats a guy to do. 10 years old and newer are pretty good but a guy really has to know exactly what he's buying. Thanks once again for your kind words..... and sing that song tomorrow and get it into every one else's head :-)

[@ecidaho]

Agreed! Yep it’s in my head now LOL mission accomplished! Yes was lucky on the spectrum gears! BTW I have a few spectrum Nscale locos and they don’t run the best at all, mid 90s vintage, stay away if you can! My opinion at least broken gears. Best value I have found re Nscale are the mid 90s Atlas/Kato locomotives. Have a number of RS-3s and RS-11s as well as some EMD locos. They are great and solid runners! Mid 90s Life Like are pretty good too!

[@rwheatley0206]

Good job Ron. Another runner on the shelf.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you!

[@conductorjohnmthtrains2239]

I'm a O Gauge railroader and have often thought about getting started in HO, pretty cool, the mechanics of them little boogers

[@classicmodeltrains]

I'm just kinda getting into O gauge. Lots easier to work on for sure!

[@billfusionenterprise]

want to do both, look at ON30, O scale running on HO scale track. I have just a few sets, couph couph

[@richardnelson-ux1zz]

Excellent video thank you for your expertise on the model trains

[@classicmodeltrains]

Many thanks!

[@billclark81]

Ron, Thank You for a great tutorial. I have several Bachman waiting for a tuneup. Liz is always pretty.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for your kind words!

[@jebbohanan2626]

Great Googaa Moogaa….I had no idea that Bachmann started making their locos “New Vocabulary” learnable. Their more fiddly than tuning those two Rochester Carburetors on those Corvair engines. Maybe even running the rails on the International 466. But, them locos sure seem to move nicely. Great job! And great video!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Jeb! Tuning multiple carbs, and running overheads on Diesel engines sure bring back memories!!

[@marvinjameson2104]

Ron, I Believe the classic model is Elizabeth Taylor. Great video on servicing the Bachmann. thank you and Please keep up your wonderful videos.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@anthonyj.adventures9736]

Awesome video i actually killed 2 of my locomitives today trying to service them. I am a fan (and sub) here and also the Canadian gentlemen who you mention uses the fiberglass pencils. But i have a tyco that is from no eariler then 1980. I came with a tyco catalog. for reference, the book it came with has the golden eagle locomotive item#250-51 and golden eagle caboose item#327-51 listed as NEW so what ever year that came out this set came out. But i did the thing. I took photos and filmed it so i could reassemble it properly. I put it back the way it was when i got it. And it doesnt run unassisted. The headlight comes on and it does go for a few inches then stops. I can push it along with my finger but once i let go it stops. I went to see if i missed a wire but when i took the tender shell back off the 2nd time i found 2 broken wires so i assume they were worn and were the issue. They broke at the solider joints and the wires them selves look a little tarnished. I dont posses the skill to fix it i dont mess with electric stuff i dont want to short it out. The other is a stewart hobbies alco C628 DCC ready. I broke 1 of the little plastic cv joint pieces that connect on the end of the motor shaft. Its the tiny tiny now borken tiny plastic joint piece that goes on the motorshaft and then inside the joint on the end of the worm gear shaft on the gear tower to the wheels. So that locomotive is a display peice too it ran perfect but i wanted to clean it. I have animals and i (not proud) smoke so my models need extra maintenance. I can build and repair most model train rolling stock issues but found i am not a locomotive fixer.cor at least with vintage stuff. I have 4 working locomotives. but do want to get these running again 1 day.

[@billfusionenterprise]

You might want to look at getting arhearn blue box, built like tank, lots of fixing videos

[@classicmodeltrains]

Sorry to hear about your two loco's giving you problems. Thanks for supporting my channel and subbing. I hope perhaps one day you will gain the skills to get the Tyco running. There really quite easy to work on. Lots of video's out there to watch. Perhaps e-bay will have another driveline you can put on the Stewart.

[@michaelcudby787]

Hi Anthony.Those Stewart Hobbies C628s are a higher end loco, & Bowser bought out Stewart Hobbies & Bowser are still producing the Alco C628, albeit, upgraded shell. Go to the Bowser website & you should still be able to get a new driveshaft. The problem I had with my Alco C630 (same as the C628) was that the older, Stewart locos only had 8 wheel electrical pickup, even tho they were 12 wheel drive. I frigged around with that SH Alco C630, for ages, even removing the PC board, to get the electrical pickup to make it run longer than ten minutes. Finally realized because it only had 8 wheel pickup, it was not running for longer than ten minutes, & nosing around on the Bowser website, that they produced a 12 wheel pickup kit. I was really happy, so I ordered 2 sets. It took about ten minutes to install those upgrade pickups, & WOW that thing just runs so well, now.Thanks Michael NZ

[@bernardc2553]

Got me some AWESOME SAUCE going on with your Channel lots oldies but good N's ..way cool ! Thank ya Kindly Ron ! When we gonna kit bash something my 1 of these for pwr in a old heavy Varney bet that be a stump puller

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for your kind words. I have some cast Varneys, yup there good pullers.

[@whip-its_dad4239]

Im going to try the mineral spirits for cleaning , great idea . Thank you .

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad I gave ya a hopefully good idea :-)

[@DRRP]

Great work I haven't really got into the newer stuff

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks. Me either. I didnt even know I had this, and I though it was a 90's something. A bit surprised when that shell came off.

[@elsdp-4560]

Thank you for sharing. Nice.👍

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for visiting

[@dupity1]

That's some good servicing😀👍 Thanks Ron, & I think Liz Taylor was the classic model😄😄😄

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you! Yup Liz was a head turner back in the day :-)

[@eastcoastrailroad8209]

Another great video

[@classicmodeltrains]

I appreciate that

[@13thBear]

I’m with you about dcc. For the guys with the basement empires, I say good for them. For us guys with a sheet of plywood empire, dc is plenty good enough, cheaper, and way simpler. This restoration was a good job, or will be after you repair the handrails. You might want to try your hand using piano wire and bending/soldering new metal handrails and stanchions instead of plastic. You seem to have a variety of pliers and might have metal bending tools as well, plus working in a hobby shop might give you access to what you might need for the job. BTW, how’s your job in the hobby shop going? Making new train buddies? Getting any “insider bargains, tips or info?” The woman is Liz Taylor. She was quite the beauty as a young girl. When she got older, she got very overweight and nowhere near as attractive IMHO.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hello 13th! I considered making some metal hand rails. I really need to get this video up, so I bypassed that idea. Hobby shop Gig is going well. Always learning new things and meeting other MRR's. Have not met any classic guys running DC yet. Most everybody running the new fancy stuff. No "insider" stuff yet either. get a bit better discount when buying stuff. Keeps me from drinking too many beer's a couple night a week :-) Yup Liz aged like milk.

[@crsrdash-840b5]

I had a Bachmann straight GP40 like yours lettered for Union Pacific with no road number. I removed the factor board and installed the NCE Bachmann DCC replacement board. The NCE boards improves performance a lot. Plus you can program it for dual analog and dcc operations. I'm so sorry I sold it at a train show a year years ago. Wish I kept it now.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Sounds like she was a good runner!

[@railsofontario3029]

Quite a modern loco to fall into disrepair. Not surprised to see loads of grease as Bachmann is notorious for overlubrcating there locos. Nice revival:)

[@classicmodeltrains]

When I picked it up to start the revival I thought it was one of those 3500's from the 90's. When I realized it was a bit newer, I was to deep to pull out. Sorta want to know when this came out. could find no info.

[@adventuresinmodelrailroading]

The 3500s were gp38s made by life like. I do have a Bachmann gp40 that was late eighties around here somewhere. Bachmann's lube philosophy is dunk 'em in a swimming pool of grease until it absorbs about a third and then ship.

[@classicmodeltrains]

@@adventuresinmodelrailroading DANG IT!! Now my lack of 90's L.L. & Bachmann knowledge is showing. Pancake motor repair video is what I was shooting for. Dunk-em in the grease....too Funny!

[@_mdh_1998]

As always another great restoration! I just had a little project finally getting somewhat done. Too a Bachmann Spectrum F40 that my buddy gave me and redid most of it. It has independent electrical pick up now and new decals. I’m working on putting the handrails back on as we speak, much easier taking them out than putting them back in, isn’t it always that way? I had this same engine when I was a kid. One of my first train sets was that Bachmann McKinley Explorer and I’ll tell you the SOB ran louder than anything. It would have a low growl common with these and sometimes it would screech and squeal.. never exactly knew why. My dad took it apart, and we found that the motor was stiff. For some reason the bearing was either bad or worn out drastically. How I don’t know because we bought it brand new. And only used it every other day for a few hours at a time and we did oil it a lot. Being much older now I wish I still had it t change out the motor but hey it happens. Thing is long gone but I know what to expect from one. He ended up putting a drop of oil and whenever it needed it he would show me how to do it. It’s funny looking at it now. His encouragement wanted to make me work on them more! And by the way, Elizabeth Taylor is perhaps the worlds most beautiful woman Ive seen. Used to have the biggest crush on her as a younger boy. Too bad I was born about 70 years late.. take care Ron! And good work!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Greetings Marc, Thanks for your kind words once again and sharing that great story. Reminded me of when my Pop's would work on trains and show me how to do stuff. I only remember the older version of Liz. Around the 5th or 6th husband. This is actually the first time I've seen her young. Thanks for watching Sir!!

[@billfusionenterprise]

I got 2 of the cKinlet sets my self, plus a few extra cars. One loco good, other calls dogs. This video will help

[@johnbeck3270]

Bachmann, instead of using a softer plastic for their hand rails used a harder plastic, and as you noted they break very easily. Nice overhaul.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hello John, Yup....Bachmann never ceases to amaze me

[@dougvalmore1450]

"... bonus - almost like the engineers... CARED." Miraculous indeed! Also love "Just the right amount - a little less than too much". !!! hilarious...

[@classicmodeltrains]

Seems most things are engineered poorly. It's nice to run into something that is easily serviceable. :-)

[@Cbtrainnut]

My guess is Elizabeth Taylor. The rest of the video is awesome! As Always!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks!

[@IndianaNorthWestern]

The only digitraxx decoders I use are the DH126P ones, you can get them with an 8 pin harness like the one you used, or just wires coming out and not going into a plug. I recommend using the one that doesn't have the 8 pin plug and just hardwiring the decoder into the model, especially with these older bachmann models. The board that's in them were made terribly and stop working properly after a week. It's not hard to wire it in at all, just follow the directions that come with the decoder and you're set. You also don't have to program the DH126P at all, unless you're adding extra lighting effects like ditchlights or a beacon. But skip a nonsound decoder and get a tsunami 2 or soundtraxx economi sound decoder instead lol

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for the good info!

[@gerlandkent6377]

[thank, you for youre video.👍 ive. got the same both gp-40 diesel locomotives same color and all. they, are a great running and pulling diesel locomotive]

[@classicmodeltrains]

Your welcome and yes these Bachmanns are pretty nice!!

[@jimmyseaver3647]

I picked up a Bachmann Spectrum Dash-8 a few weeks ago and have been meaning to take a look at it and make sure it's in running order. Probably needs a good cleaning, but I need to get the materials first. Kinda hard to do when I need to save up for a planned trip to see family.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Hope you get your new one running soon! And see the Family :-)

[@jimsrenaski7118]

Please do much more DCC.!!!!

[@classicmodeltrains]

I'm probably going to go down that road some more. I'm running out of "old" stuff to show how to work on ;-)

[@billfusionenterprise]

Nice to see a video on the newer bachmann GP, i have a few and some need work. Thee DCC install not working is not surprising as plug and play is a loose term (windows users) I have seen quite a few have issues with it (even fully factory installed units) Love watching how much can go into reprogramming (full bore computer works the best) looks like someone tuining a supercar

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks Bill. Plug-n-play is a poor marketing word. A USB adapter and some fancy software would be a better way to go about programming decoders. I should look into that.

[@conductorjohnmthtrains2239]

Alright Ron's back, thought you might have skipped town 😂. Good to see ya!

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you. Was filming vid's with re-paints and the paint takes a long time to dry. Had to switch gears and do this one real fast :-)

[@andrewzboray8819]

A very enjoyable video, thanks, "TV" shows I can relate to. I recently upgraded from using an MRC 1500 controller to an MRC Tech 3 9500 so as to have amp/volt gauge, and more power output since I like to run multiple locomotive lash-ups. I had considered getting some form of walk-about throttle but could not find a model I liked, but noticing your use of the MRC Master 20 and mention in the comments, I just looked at the model online and am liking it. I see the "nudge" function and am wondering from you or others if this is a helpful feature?

[@classicmodeltrains]

I have never used the nudge. I don't even know what it does. The "momentum" and brake feature is real nice, plus being able to walk around with it. There great transformers :-)

[@charlesdempsey176]

Now I need to look at my Alaska Bachmann Geep.

[@classicmodeltrains]

hope this video helped out

[@johnbanicki7232]

Another great video. Love how the Bachman is filled with weight. And is that a young Elizabeth Taylor?

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks and yes it is. (wolf whistle)

[@casstelles]

I caught the Jenny reference. As far as the engine itself, I have a Bachman Spectrum GP30 (Ebay special) with the same kind of trucks that has a missing pin in the gear tower. It caused the gear to move and jammed up the gear train. One of these days, I'll swap the truck with a spare truck in the parts bin to make it work.

[@classicmodeltrains]

But were you singing it in yer head? Hope you get the Ol gal running again :-)

[@davidokelly1140]

You did some great work on this loco! Best job a guy can can do on a model train. There was one sore oversight on this particular model. It's a bachmann!! (I kid, I joke, haha) Your bachmann looks to be running very well conventionally. Not unlike any bachmann (spectrum or what have you) I've ever owned, no significant difference can be noticed between conventional and dcc operation. Thanks Ron!! Any hints to what your working on next?...

[@classicmodeltrains]

Greetings David, Thanks for your kind words. This is the first Bachmann Ive run into that's so well engineered. I'm not sure what "line" of model trains it comes from. I'm finishing up the paint on a O gauge, 1/64 scale restoration project. I'm hoping it launches in a few more days. Paint takes forever to dry :-)

[@davidokelly1140]

@@classicmodeltrains Looking forward to that next video your working on. Have a great weekend.

[@michaelcudby787]

Hi Ron.The loco s slow speed, is really dependant on the decoder you chose.Yep, that DZ decoder is tiny, but it is, pretty much a budget decoder.A budget decoder means a budget performance.You should try other decoders, because that if that loco runs pretty darn good on DC, it should run even slower on DCC, DEPENDING on the decoder. I have decoded 95% of my, 300 + locos, & have found that out, along the way. Even a loco that dosnt crawl at slow speeds, can be made to run at slow speed, BUT might need a high end decoder.Try going to a DH 143 or a DH 163.(Digitrax). I generally dont use Digitrax decoders, as there are sooo many options, when it comes to 8pin decoders. If budget is an issue, I have had great success with the Lais DCC decoders. They can be picked up on Amazon, I think, about $16. They, I understand, are a cheap knockoff copy, of a TCS decoder. BTW, that model is a good runner, in DC. I bought a Bachman SD40-2 DCC ready, & it didnt even have flywheels WTF? I put one of those Lais decoders in it, added some details, & that thing runs/looks great. Thanks for the video, Ron. Michael NZ

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for watching and putting down some good information. I did pickup the cheapest plug n play decoder. many have said use other manufacturers

[@rln970]

I am just getting back into model railroading after a 62-year lapse. I really have benefited from your videos about maintenance and repair. Is there any place to purchase small replacement items like handrails? I wool hope they are available in lengths to be cut and glued in as a replacement.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Glad to see your back into modeling! Thanks for your kind words. I pick up raw hand railing materials from the local hobby shop. "A-line" makes the stanchions and many people make the thin wire needed. Or you could use old guitar strings.

[@w.rustylane5650]

Since I became an HO scale modeler, I've learned to stay away from Bachmann especially since they have a history of cracked gears. I no longer have any Bachmann locomotives. Their rolling stock is okay, but I never will own another Bachmann.engine. The 2 Bachmann engines lasted for 1 year then the cracked gears. Now they are parts for any another engines not Bachmann. I use LaBelle 107 which is medium weight oil. Yeah, throw those plastic knock off Kaydee's in the trash. Kaydee makes great couplers for any situation, under shank, over shank, etc. They really improved the couplers with the whisker ones instead of the #5's with the centering springs. Cheers from eastern TN

[@classicmodeltrains]

Them #5 Kadees almost ruined me for wanting to switch over from horn hooks. Way too hard to install. Whiskers were a game changer for sure.

[@tommys_trucks_trains_tractors]

I agree. I’ve got a few Bachmann GP40s and F9 dcc because they were in a price range I could afford. They ran great for a little bit, but once you put a heavy consist on-mushroom cloud. 😢 I pulled out my 25+ year-old atlas and Athearn dc and that’s where I’m at. I got a Kadee sampler kit and I love the whisker couplers much more than ez mate or Mc Henry

[@tommys_trucks_trains_tractors]

@@classicmodeltrainsI’m glad I’m Not the only one who’s parts “launch” out of my tweezers and then I spend eternity looking for them. I used to be a good solderer when I was in the Air Force, but my hands shake like a leaf now and I’m a hack. Getting old really sucks. I have to take apart a brand new Bachmann GP 40 that must have slipped a driveshaft. Thank You

[@hollywood1340]

You're from Montana too? That's awesome.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup. Billings area

[@hollywood1340]

@@classicmodeltrains Hopefully we'll see you at local show them. I'm in Missoula and just getting started back into the hobby as a winter project. Keep up the wonderful work it truly is an inspiration!

[@amyreynolds3619]

I was able to get hand rails in the past.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I will have to do some looking for a set

[@peterolsen3797]

Great Video(s). A suggestion for a new Vid. Could you show us peons how you keep your tracks clean. I live in the dessert and in a couple of weeks the black "corrosion" ruins my fun till the tracks are cleaned again.. I have used 409, Windex, LGB track cleaner/smoke fluid. I have found that the paper towel is the most aggressive pad until it gets too wet. Thanks in advance

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks. I use a woodland scenics "tidy track" cleaning devise. I clean my rails every time I do a locomotive restore. Here's a link to it on amazon. www.amazon.com/Woodland-Scenics-Tracker-Cleaning-WOOU4550/dp/B0062VH4NM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=L6SKSIVN9UJU&keywords=woodland+scenics+tidy+track&qid=1676584259&sprefix=woodland+scenics+tidy+track%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-1

[@marvinjameson2104]

Ron, What about some speakers and sound?

[@classicmodeltrains]

I'm not into DCC. I can do it, but find it quirky. The loco's I do have with sound, I run silent.

[@normancoreyBuildingTrains]

You could try programing cv 29 to 18 that will make it dcc only and turn on 28 speed step they come programed to 6 . Nice jobj as always.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks!

[@ZaksMuscleMotors]

Try the soundtraxx basic decoders. They are like $5-$8 more than the basic function decoders from digitrax but the motor control is far better

[@classicmodeltrains]

Cool! Thanks for the info :-)

[@stormshadow5555]

What are entry-level/low-end brands and high-end/pro/top quality brands to look for in all scales and eras? Thanks

[@classicmodeltrains]

That's a pretty big question there. The stuff Ive been repairing on this channel is pretty much entry level stuff. There are many brands out there currently that many would consider high end, but it turns into a ford, vs chevy, vs dodge argument. Mid to high end stuff starts around $180 and goes to $850 and up for todays stuff.

[@wolframvonbach1685]

DC works better, have fun!

[@classicmodeltrains]

I hear ya

[@markwilliams2620]

Bachmann Plus were the best for the buck. I hate to sound like a geezer but I think the 90's were the best era. I could get detail parts. Blue boxes were less than $5 so kids could still get into the hobby. Spectrum and Proto 2000 were affordable and gave me my GP30 Milwaukee Road. Liz Taylor. Edit: The handrails are acytel plastic. They need special paint and I don't know if a glue works. Ask an RC racer. They deal with that in their car bodies. That's how I found I needed the special paint for my handrails

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for the heads up on what them dang rails are made out of.

[@hessxpress3016]

dcc ready with that 8 pin jumper. must be newer, thats not normal it didnt work first time. it has directional lighting outta the box. tough luck

[@classicmodeltrains]

I was thinking this was a 3500 series from the 90's. started filming and when that body came off I was quite surprised. Figured I'm in this deep....keep going :-)

[@billfusionenterprise]

may be a program issue for the motor or amperage draw, like plug and play always works. I have seen other have issue with decoder installs. So no surprise that there was an issue

[@firestarspelt]

judging by the trucks im gona say that locomotive was made after 2014 because those are the latest tooling of the emd 4 axle trucks

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for that info. I was thinking '14 and newer but was not sure.

[@theplumber33]

Outstanding brother! I believe I have the same model. Dcc though. It could be the decoder? Nice either way!!!🫵✌️

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thank you!

[@4everdc302]

Toothpick like a clutch alignment tool. A little mechanic is shown there, lol. A locomotive that doesn't start with 19sumthing😋🚂🇨🇦🇺🇲🙋

[@classicmodeltrains]

Many years as a heavy Mechanic, pays off every now and then. Goes along with my bad back and knees :-)

[@MosriteCharlie]

my Bachman GP-30 motors howl - any suggestions?

[@classicmodeltrains]

need to know what kind of motor is in it. Is it a can motor or an open frame? What year is it roughly made in? Are the gear towers and axles all lubed up also? If its an older one they pretty much always made a bunch of noise.

[@pathvalleyrailroad9277]

DCC doesn't makre locos run better, it just makes running them better. It''s not really necessary for a singe operator on a small layout, but it does give you some pretty cool lighting options. I use it mostly so I can run my stuff at shows wiith the club. You can program speed step 1 pretty easy with your NCE system.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I find DCC terribly quirky and a frustration. I'm just a DC guy at heart. Single operator on my little layout. I did that to see if the 15V of power being PWM'ed at the motor would get it to creep better. I'm always questioning the reality that's being force fed to me. :-)

[@michaelcudby787]

@@classicmodeltrains Hi Ron. The type of decoder is what makes or breaks the loco, especially at crawl speeds. I found that out the hard way. It seems a shame you have a good DCC system, but putting in the cheapest decoder, unfortunately,let you down.There are probably literally hundreds of decoders, that will fit that loco, but chosing the right one, is best.I used to think any decoder will do the same job, so just get the cheapest, but NO. I have some fairly low end locos, & have put in a decent decoders & they run just as good as any thing else.That Bachman loco has the potential run/crawl a lot better, but just depends on the decoder. Digitrax make some good decoders, but just go a little up market, & you will be amazed at the difference. Word of warning, DO NOT buy a Bachman loco that is DCC equipped, UNLESS you plan on replacing the decoder, anyways, & some Bachman locos have the 8 pin connector, & some dont. These have a pcb decoder, & you will have to hardwire one in. Whew, sorry. Michael NZ

[@classicmodeltrains]

@@michaelcudby787 Thanks for the great information. Ive heard Bachmann decoders are very poor. I picked up this little 8 pin universal at the LHS because it was the only universal 8 pin they had. I suppose a $30-$50 DCC no sound decoder would be a better product. I'm not much of a DCC guy, I like it simple in the DC universe :-)

[@firestarspelt]

@@classicmodeltrains tcs, soundtraxx, and esu sound/non sound decoders all have pretty good motor drive and will make almost any engine crawl good tcs being my go to. nce bachmann and digitraxx decoders are garbage

[@billfusionenterprise]

One the big issues is to make sure loco runs good at DC, no sense chasing two issues, then making sure the decorder will work with loco. Blue box can draw high amps and basic DCC units can't handle. Could be why this was not going smooth

[@silvertrain7945]

I see you found your hat.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup. You said you missed it :-)

[@peterhiggins3329]

If the normal plastic cement doesn't work then try the Tamiya ABS will.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Thanks for the tip

[@lawrenceechols6453]

Hubba hubba Liz Taylor

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup!!

[@peterhiggins3329]

The problem with those early "DCC Ready" boards was they didn't understand how directional lighting worked. Bachmann manufacturing had already settled itself in China and the "engineers" there had no idea how locomotive lighting actually was meant to work and by the time the boards were manufactured it would have cost Bachmann too much money to get them to correct the lighting issues. DCCConcepts had the same issues with Chinese manufacturers to the point where the contracts with these manufacturers meant they didn't get paid if they screwed up the engineering. Meant the final product cost a bit more but at least the final product worked the way it was supposed to.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I agree

[@johnkelley2468]

Who was the supermodel?

[@classicmodeltrains]

I can remember. It's in a subtitle at the end of the video

[@darrenharvey6084]

Liz Taylor

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup

[@farmerdave7965]

It's not a pinion gear. It's a worm gear.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Dave, Thank you for pointing that out. I kinda knew it wasn't a pinion gear, although it does the exact same thing, but worm is the correct word to use. Your keeping me on my toes! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@davidokelly1140]

Worm gear, pinion gear, let's call the whole thing off. 😂 Lol Yes.... Worm gear is correct sir but because Ron works on cars, i had given him a pass on that.

[@roberttapken1139]

Elizabeth Taylor (RIP)

[@classicmodeltrains]

:-)

[@animalyze7120]

DCC is cool if you have kids and grandkids that like to play around while you operate trains as well. DC is far more reliable and much easier and cleaner (Wires wise) to work with. DCC sounds are phoney sounding and I have heard all of the decoders and sound equipped locos, not one has ever been authentic sounding (Close but no cigar). Good ol DC makes life so much better though DCC is fun if you have lots of folks around to run with you, no lie there.

[@classicmodeltrains]

I agree with you completely!!

[@GabrielRazo-t2y]

I have one bachman from 1976 and 200 same shell and the motor the 76 no electric the 200 have electric something

[@classicmodeltrains]

:-)

[@ecidaho]

Elizabeth Taylor this week.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup!!

[@rickmoustier1723]

Elizabeth Taylor

[@classicmodeltrains]

A looker back in the day, but seems a little hard to handle.

[@w.rustylane5650]

Liz Taylor was a really beautiful woman. She even looked good as she got older despite the weight gain. Made her boobs look even bigger. What's your favorite beer? Mine is Shock Top. It's a light Belgian ale. Cheers - TN

[@classicmodeltrains]

Liz was real pretty back in the day. Seems a bit hard to keep around though. I enjoy IPA craft beers

[@MosriteCharlie]

I found the cure for the Bachmann motors that howl on my GP-30's - an Athearn GP-35 mechanism. Anyone need 3 Bachmann GP-30 drives?

[@classicmodeltrains]

whats the cure?

[@XBOXShawn12thman]

I am DC only ..... I dont think I'll ever go DCC

[@classicmodeltrains]

DCC is over rated

[@XBOXShawn12thman]

@@classicmodeltrains I just made a shout out video and I put your channel on it 👍

[@azmike1]

Elizabeth Taylor.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Yup

[@startrekking359]

Farrah Fawcett, Charlie's Angel's

[@classicmodeltrains]

Elizabeth Taylor.

[@startrekking359]

@@classicmodeltrains I was going with Anne Baxter I sure you know who she is, Ron I hope you aren't accept with me you have a great site on KZbin Your great to watch.

[@classicmodeltrains]

@@startrekking359 I had to look up Anne Baxter on the google machine. I believe she is a bit before my time. Thanks for your kind words about my video's and supporting my channel!!

[@OriginalBongoliath]

To be fair, Digitrax decoders are junk. Experienced DCC users only use three brands of decoder- TCS, ESU, and Soundtraxx. Anything other than those three are crapshoots and a waste of money. All the major loco brands (except Broadway Limited with their junky in-house decoder) who have factory DCC installed only use those three for a reason.

[@classicmodeltrains]

Chevy Vs Ford, Vs Dodge..... Lots of guys have their favorites, BUT I'm picking up what your laying down :-)

[@conductorjohnmthtrains2239]

Ron why don't you use CRC QD electronic Cleaner , all you do is spray and its clean?

[@classicmodeltrains]

I want to take the whole thing apart to show people how to do it. Show off all the innards and what not. If I was just knocking these things out production wise I would do that. Thanks for watching and commenting John :-)

[@conductorjohnmthtrains2239]

@@classicmodeltrains agreed my friend