December 6, 2001

Bachmann 0-6-0 Little Smoothie!

available here

The Bachmann Spectrum 0-6-0's are now in stock. Although Bachmann states they are DCC ready, they do require wiring and will not accept the NMRA DCC plug. The wiring is simple enough because Bachmann has provided holes earmarked for DCC on the foward portion the Loco's circuit bd.

Room is at a premium and we determined that the Lenz LE0511W or the LE0521W (updated 11/5/2003) are about the only decoders that will fit in the top forward portion on the loco circuit board. This is a tight fit so minimizing wire mass is important.

Sound decoders and speakers are not a viable option.

We were impressed at the excellent, smooth low speed control. The all wheel pick-up seems to allow the loco to negotiate turnouts without stalling, which is symptomatic for many other short wheel base locos.