Bachmann A1

[TimMeese]

I think it's well known that the early batches of Bachmann A1s had very poor pulling power. So much so that Bachmann ordered a recall from customers to have the motors replaced (at least, I think that's what they did). I have two Bachmann A1s:

1. Aberdonian (one of the original batch, subsequently 'fixed' by Bachmann)
2. W. P. Allen (released after the original probem was identified)

I've added lead weight under the loco where I can, with the result that each of these locos can just about manage a train of 7 Pullmans. 8 is definitely a bad idea, and even 7 is not comfortable on the (hidden) curves. So the initial 'fix' by Bachmann wasn't that great - I have no other pacifics anything like this feeble.

So my question is this. Has the power of these models improved? Does anyone have them pulling a protoypical train? I would like to buy another, but I wont bother if they are still limited to 7 coaches...

Best

[CVR1865]

Tim

I have have Great Central and i have had her at full tilt with 9 up and my layout features a rise and tight bends. The only trouble i have had is she don't like to cross through points, the fancy pony truck chucks the tail out. Other than that she has been great, as with all Bachmann's though i find a really good run in on the wheels has made a big difference, my K3 is the one that struggles.

Simon

[TimMeese]

Thanks simon - that's valuable info. As I recall, correct me if I'm wrong, Great Central was a later production run than the two I have, so the difference between our experiences could be down to either a mechanism upgrade or just random variability. We need more data to see a pattern...

Best
Tim.

[54a Sunderland]

The early batch of Bachmann A1s were recalled because, as you say, the motors were underpowered. BUT; because of this they had a tendency to overheat and catch fire. Hence the recall. I run 5 Bachmann A1s and one of them still has the small motor BECAUSE; last year I sent 2 to Bachmann for motor upgrade and they charged me £12.50 each for a standard service charge to do this. I bought my 5th which also has a smaller motor but now Bachmann want £12.50 service charge PLUS £12.50 for the larger motor. A bit off when the problem is Bachmann's own design fault. My A1s with the upgrade motor and liquid lead in the body will happily haul a mixed rake of Gresleys and Mk1s made up of 12-coaches. This includes gradients and it copes without banking.

[CVR1865]

How easy is the conversion job? I have done the motor on my hornby new model A4 and it runs fine. I also repaired a couple of heljans I think that if you have a soldering iron and patience then you can surely save on the bachmann charge. I think that you are right though and the upgrade should be free.

[54a Sunderland]

Hello. The conversion involves fitting a longer cradle to the chassis to take the extendedchassis so you would have to get on to Bachmann for a motor AND cradle. Because the cradle is longer the part of the chassis that houses the final gear which is attached to the middle dring wheel axle has to be machined out to take the cradle. You can do it with a file but it does involve removing the valve gear and middle driver. Considering it is a design fault.....well; Bachmann should still do it gratis don't you think?

[CVR1865]

Yes. They really should, have you considered a letter to mremag as I believe many a modeller has had luck with the danger of a little bad publicity. Or you could also try writing to them complaining about this, and how you have only had the loco a short while etc. I have always found them pretty helpful.