Name Me A Good Small Steamer

C

Cannonball

More Trains Than Brains
Dec 4, 2006
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St. Joseph, MO
After so many years of running steam in O gauge, it doesn't seem right that all my N scale stuff is diesel. I want to find a small steamer to run on my layout perhaps with a few early era passenger cars.

I don't want a huge long monster like a 4-8-4 or anything.
I'd like to find a 2-4-0 that would handle 9-3/4" turns.
(Just in case since my layout isn't built yet)

I'd like to keep it under $100 but many of you have said a steamer isn't worth the money until it's over a Benjamin. That being the case, I'm willing to entertain ideas up to a bill and a half or so.

Anybody have any experience with the Bachmann American? I know they only list around $40 or so. I ask because I found one in CB&Q and I'd like to grab it. Feel free to shoot it down if you want and I'll leave it alone.
 
T

Triplex

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Aug 24, 2005
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You know, anything up to a 2-8-0 will handle 9.75", and a lot of larger engines will, too...

I don't think there's any 2-4-0 available. Support for old-time in N isn't so good.
 
W

woodone

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Feb 7, 2007
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You interested in a 0-8-0 or a 2-8-2. I have seen some Atlas/Rivarossi's going for less than $50.00 plus freight. You might get a better deal than that if you look around. They are a fair running loco. not great but workable. I have seen some old MRC QB-1's for sale too.
Take a look at Ebay. toys&hobbies- then select N scale- search steam. you will find a few right now.
Happy hunting.
 
C

Cannonball

More Trains Than Brains
Dec 4, 2006
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woodone said:
You interested in a 0-8-0 or a 2-8-2. I have seen some Atlas/Rivarossi's going for less than $50.00 plus freight. You might get a better deal than that if you look around. They are a fair running loco. not great but workable. I have seen some old MRC QB-1's for sale too.
Take a look at Ebay. toys&hobbies- then select N scale- search steam. you will find a few right now.
Happy hunting.
Click to expand...

I don't want anything near as long as that.
The most I want to go is a 2-6-2 or a 4-6-0.
 
C

Cannonball

More Trains Than Brains
Dec 4, 2006
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St. Joseph, MO
What about the Atlas 2-6-0 Moguls?
 

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W

woodone

Member
Feb 7, 2007
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Phoenix, AZ.
Well I personaly have never had any of the loco's, you have shown. Atlas/Rivarossi loco's are good units-motors were a little weak, not sure how these would rate. Are you looking for the 1800's look? Or just any Moguls?
 
C

Cannonball

More Trains Than Brains
Dec 4, 2006
1,564
0
36
55
St. Joseph, MO
woodone said:
Well I personaly have never had any of the loco's, you have shown. Atlas/Rivarossi loco's are good units-motors were a little weak, not sure how these would rate. Are you looking for the 1800's look? Or just any Moguls?
Click to expand...

Pretty much any steam that will make a 9-3/4 turn.
That's the main reason I want to avoid anything with 8 drivers
I think any Mongul would fit the bill.
 
W

woodone

Member
Feb 7, 2007
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Phoenix, AZ.
Well the Atlas/Rivarossi 0-8-0 is a fair running unit- I have two myself.
Not sure how thay will run on a 9 3/4 radius. All my curves are 15 or better. The biggest problem with these units is the motor- but you can get replacements- $25.00 plus S&H- so watch out what you buy.
 
A

absnut

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Oct 18, 2002
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The Former MDC (now Athearn) 2-6-0 and 2-8-0 are great runners and would seem perfect for your needs. They can both be had for less than a hundred. Check out that popular auction site. They'll also work great on 9-3/4" radius.

Dick
 
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