Weaver, S Helper Service, Life-Like, Brawa,
brands from concept to mold construction through to final production. The Kader
company to manufacture prescription sunglasses. U.S market alone. The old train set level stuff is just not worth the effort, but the Spectrum stuff is good to excellent. Out of 35 locos, several did have problems, Bachmann replaced them no questions asked. Adapting to changing times, in 1912 the company began using a new material, celluloid, to manufacture
To extend its market outside of
I have a 2-8-0 with nonsound DCC on Board. I agree Bachmann is a quality product now. Alco Models returns to HO-Scale Trains Resource. the N scale market in 1968. Hand carved ivory umbrella handles were
In my opinion the Bachmann was quieter. However, this item would soon completely change the direction of the company. range of model train locomotives, from the very small 1:220 scale to the large 1:22 scale products. Bachmann Industries can trace its roots back to 1833 as a manufacturer of vanity products in Philadelphia, Pa. In 1974 Bachmann added the U36B diesels
Two roadnames, Chessie and
On the steam engine side, there really isn't a distinction anymore. But if it was me, and I decided to go DCC, on my older Bachmann models that came with the plug in decoders, I would remove the complete lighting board and hard wire a better quality decoder - problem solved. That has changed completely, but it did not happen over night, so along the way some items have been better than others. they mass produced this large line of injection molded plastic buildings. Not a big deal if you know the NMRA DCC standards and know how to use an ohm meter. trains, the Bachmann Plasticville brand experienced substantial growth. Today the company is headquartered in Hong Kong and is a leading manufacturer of model trains and accessories world-wide. After Henry G. Bachmann's death in 1914, the company changed its name to Bachmann Brothers. What I've learned, I've learned in here from guys like Randy, Tom, Dr. Wayne, Sheldon, Ed, and a list of others, sorry if I left anyone out, and books I've read, and currently reading. alone occupied a total floor space of 1,200,000 square feet, and employed around 8,000 staff including more than 400 toolmakers and over 300 designers,
scale, they steadily worked into other scales. by Model Railroader, BahnProfil, Eisenbahn and other various magazines and industry organizations. There are forums with company reps, catalogs, Parts list, Repairs and Replacement pages, loco diagrams, DCC info, etc. GE 35 Ton Switcher, and
Bucklin, Missouri 64631
It is "generic", but very well detailed, runs good and is typical of large modern (1920's) 2-8-0's seen on roads like the B&O, WM, and many others. I like to consider myself that after being in the trade for over 30 years. The items were made in Bachmann's Hong Kong factory. I'm sure they are still out there. Bachmann acquisition. I don't have the time to go item by item, even just among steam locos Bachmann has made in the last 15-20 years, but most of their steam locos are good runners and accurate models of their prototypes. Bachmann entered the 'G' Gauge market
I really appreciate it. It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse. It continued to specialize in injection molding and was the first American
I find all the others have better decoders (sound, motor control and selections). Nonetheless, it was a fine running locomotive. Bachmann, especially Bachmann Spectrum, is certainly not trash or junk. including sunglasses for U.S. Army and U.S. Army Air Force personnel along with protective eye
Mike. In 1978 Bachmann introduced its F40PH diesel
However, I will say that BLI Mikes have the big issue of the chuff sensor burning out repeatedly and quickly, so my BLI Mike will be getting a different decoder and a totally different chuff sensor installed. I could not find them on your site? My inspirational prototype is the short-line ARA. American Models, Bowser, Micro-Trains, Aristo-Craft, Wm. are still produced.
gauge product line to their portfolio. My joints start tapping on my shoulder, oil, oil, oil. in the low price range of the 'G' market. But I think their OnBoard DCC (nonsound) decoder is inferior to others, as well as nearly all aftermarket decoders. run by Henry G. Bachmann, a German immigrant and his son, Walter J. Bachmann. of products made from horn, ivory and tortoise shell. I was born in "49", so the transition period was well underway, and I was not around railroads. Many of the locos no longer in production can still be found "new old stock" at very reasonable prices. Great loco, great mechanicals, totally ruined by an inferior decoder. TimeIt marches onwithout ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step. This site focuses primarily on Bachmanns HO scale trains of the 1970s and 1980s. Great looking loco, from the Specturm lineage, but it hums loudly upon speed step 1, doesn't move until speed step 8 (humming more loudly as the steps increase) then moves jserkily until about a scale 15 mph, merrily buzzing along. You're an expert. [Home]
Also, respectfully, some of the comments above are based on the limited experiances of those individuals, with a limited number of Bachmann items. [Train Collecting Tips page]
They also added several steam locomotives to their line, including a Consolidation 2-8-0,
In 1992 Bachmann
So what's the real word on Bachmann locos? Early models
But that has largely changed. The plant is a joint venture with the Chinese Government. It can use a little weight, which is easily added, but is a great looking and running loco for the much friendlier price..as I said, I built Mikes out of five of these: USRA/C&O 2-6-6-2 - these excellent little guys were big stars on the C&O and these models do them full justice. received a patent for the design of the snap together parts. I decided to give them a shot. delivered these locomotives, train sets, and accessories to aspiring engineers in both HO and Large Scale. 
During that time, they has an older-style Ten-Wheeler, so I could get away with it. Kader also sold GP30 shells to Bev-Bel and Front Range in the 1980's
and rolling stock in a variety of scales. manage your account online and more! As far as the detail of the shell, different models have different levels of detail, so check each loco to see if it meets your standards. PS Yup Like how about those waterfalls, I looked for them. My worth, I have a Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0, with DCC and sound, and I think it's great. If you can find what you want in BLI, you should get it. But overall, even the train set level products from Bachmann are now reliable from a mechanical standpoint even if they are not the most detailed or accurate models out there. Yes, Bachmann used/uses "basic" DCC decoders for the most part. All product names and logos are trademarks of Bachmann Industries, Inc. Alco Models returns to the HO-Scale Trains Resource with Alcos biggest diesels of all. called Branchline, consisted of molds used to produce the Mainline range of Railway models. Its initial product range,
So not all their products will be the same detail or accuracy level. I seen the pictures of your work. If I could just get up in the morning and go do the work I enjoy all lined up for me, I think that would be better than the other end of this business. This range of models has also had its production transferred to the Kader factory, joining both Branchline
You should also look at the Bachmann website.
Determining it had established enough brand name recognition with
[Train Collecting Tips page]
eyeglass frames. Williams Trains, thus adding a three rail 'O'
Everyone of my BLI steam engines have gone back to BLI for repairs! Mechanically, I think they are as good as anybody else with the exception of manufacturers that still use kato-based motors. You have to get by all the ads and pop-ups, and check out what you want. It runs great, even in "creep" speed, and I think the sound is way cool, BUT, I'm NOT a steam expert, as alot of guys on here on. Same with the diesel line. continued to specialize in inexpensive high quality entry-level train sets sold in the mass market,
Hornby Railways, which had concentrated production there since 1997-2001. Only steam I had where there Speterm GS-4 engines. increase of 3.36% as compared to 2005. Northern 4-8-4 steam engine also came out in N in 1969. [Index of Manufacturers]. Some better than others, but all passable. I wouldn't be surprised if Bachman calls you in a few days to offer you a job. Actually, I knew Lee Riley, the brains behind the creation of the Spectrum line, way back in the day before he worked for Bachmann.sad he is gone now. It produced a full
BLI also does that but I don't think to the extent that Bachmann does. and services. began to remarket the "fence" under the brand name 'Plasticville U.S.A.' It was so successful
an EMD GP50. The acquisition created strategic synergies
Other hobby items included electronic slot racing cars,
Tank was the first HO scale
From the 1950s comes Ulrich Model kits new to the HO-scale Trains Resource, the series of rolling stock, vehicles, and structure kits are appearing during October 2020! If you're getting older like me that would sure beat the heck out of doing construction. The OnBoard Sound Value line has a scaled down Soundtraxx Tsunami-ish decoder and is as good as any other Tsunami as far as sound quality and motor control, IMO. between the two companies, making more resources and facilities available, and also providing clients with a solid financial backbone. Never had a lick of a problem with them. That's where the stress is. Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info,and more. I find nothing more rewarding as showing them how to do the things they're confused about from my knowledge and life experience. I was relating to my knowledge of steam locos. I have a number of them and have been very happy with them. 2-8-4 Berkshire - this locomotive from the regular line is relatively new, introduced maybe 5 years ago, and is very close to the Spectrum line in details. included an oversized F9A and GP40. WI., IL., and Iowa. Established in 1973, Sanda Kan was a highly recognized developer and manufacturer of precision models in Hong Kong. Primarily working in 'O' scale (1/48th size) and HO (1/87th size)
devices and submarine battery caps. based in Hong Kong, with its founding base and North American headquarters located in Philadelphia,
emphasized highly detailed, faithfully reproduced locomotives and train sets. I don't think a blanket statement about Bachmann can be used to describe it accurately. But I still throw my tool belt on. Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter,
Sanda Kan
In 1899, Carlisle decided to merge the company with another similar business being
I think you missed my indirect compliment. slot cars, toy airplanes, plastic animal sets, robots, and cassette cases. Bachmann Spectrum steam engines are some of the best around. Give yourself some credit. At least, those carried by Walther's, Modeltrainstuff.com, and other sites or elsewhere that I can see listed as easily obtainable. through the 1990's. The buildings are roughly 'O' Scale but
where it remains to this day. I've seen your pictures.
The original company was started in America in 1833 by Henry Carlisle. And some items have been less than perfect. 2000 saw the British 'N' scale manufacturer Graham Farish purchased by Bachmann Europe plc. I have several Bachmann engines and they have never given me any problems at all. also looked good with 'S' gauge. He was a manufacturer
As far as locomotives, my planned layout calls for steamers of the American (20's - '30's appearance), Ten-Wheeler or Consolidation variety, and perhaps even a Mike or Berk as a through-freight for flavor. In 1946, Bachmann entered the postwar toy market with its Plasticville U.S.A. line of plastic kits designed to be used with Lionel O scale trains. I've seen your pictures. All rights reserved.HO Scale Trains Resource documents the history of ready-to-run model trains.All product names, logos, and brands are property of their respective owners. Bachmann Industries is a Bermuda registered company that is
while at the same time, it expanded into manufacturing high quality products for the hobbyist as well. My disclaimer - I run DC, I don't use DCC or sound, if my locos came with decoders, they are long gone now. manufacture of high-back Spanish combs for the ladies of the Southern States. I purchased a Bachman 4-8-4 Great Northern - northern. It was discovered
Here is the thing with Bachmann, they make products geared to every "level" of the hobby, from beginner to highly advanced. Bachmann released its
They have solid motors. In the 1980's, Bachmann introduced the TGV Train, Brill and PCC streetcars, EMD DDA40X, EMD SD40-2,
a N&W J 4-8-4, a NYC Niagra 4-8-4, a Santa Fe Northern 4-8-4, and a GS4 4-8-4. P.O. Website: http://www.thecbandqinwyoming.comVideos:https://www.youtube.com/user/mabrunton. In the late 1950's Lionel actually
So, is Bachmann equipment really as bad as I've read, or are these mostly sour-grapers with older units? Founded in 1948 in Hong Kong, Kader was established to produce models and toys for export. capitalize on both brand names. As for quality, most of the bad stuff you hear is left over bad experiances from 20 years ago, when they made mainly inexpensive "train set" quality stuff.
