I have a Bachmann 2-8-0. I would like to buy a Bachmann 2-6-0 and use the tender for my 2-8-0. I was wondering if anyone can tall me if the electronic plugs between the loco and tender are interchangeable between Bachmann locos. A while back, I got a Light USRA Bachmann 4-8-2 and bought the extended Vanderbilt tender (that originally came with the Heavy C&O Mountain) and it plugged into the light 4-8-2. I was wonder if the same would work with a 2-8-0 loco with the tender from a 2-6-0.

Any advice would be great.

Robert Gross

Hello I've found myself with a somewhat peculiar issue. 

I have two locos that I equipped with ESU Loksound decoders.  I used the ESU Lokprogrammer to do the initial loading of sounds and set up as it works quite fast. 

However for subsequent editing of speed curves etc I use Decoder Pro.  One of the tools I also use is the Bachrus Speedo, which allows me to measure the speed of each loco in scale MPH and get a graph of a loco. This is then used against a reference 'curve' to match the subject loco to.

I learned at a clinic at the Cocoa Beach Proto meet about DCC Power Savers. If this is not a new product please forgive me. I think this would be perfect for my steam locos. Just a few few questions: What are the Power Savers you are using? Are they better than a basic capacitor? Are they Plug and Play or are is there soldering involved? 

Robert Gross

     Hi all,

     I'd like to share my latest project. I've been working on a 3D model of an FMC woodchip gondola, specifically a G-100-15/G-100-17. The design is based upon Rick Selby's article in the March 1992 Model Railroader.

     Due to the lack of exact dimensions, I've had to "eyeball" many of the dimensions - especially placement. I would welcome any comments/constructive criticism on how I could improve the design.