Bachmann D&RGW GP7

[sailormatlac]

What I'm realizing is that I don't notice the missing grabs when the loco is on the layout. My move to DCC in particular is to operate the layout, so you can sort of see the direction! Also, some people have what they call "company china" and then the "everyday china" to use when company isn't around. That means it can be put in the dishwasher, and It isn't such a tragedy if it breaks. I think these Bachmanns are sort of "everyday china". If I waned to upgrade one thing, I'd have to upgrade others, like the fans, and then I'm not sure where I'd want to stop. I can see changing the lettering on the CN locos, adding details like sunshades, spark arresters, and winterization hatches, because they're really noticeable. But the grabs I just don't think about on these.

I understand perfectly! That's more or less the role of Bachmann new generation of diesels: a relatively reliable, relatively correct locomotive for a decent price. I had to do the same thing for the layout, using everyday china cars to ensure the would end up beaten up! Using old prototypically repainted train set Bachmann hoppers and Model Power gondolas.

I must agree I also didn't notice the grab on mines after a while!!! When they say the brain selects what you see, that's so true. And the brain is more annoyed by spark arresters and sunshades, that's true. For the fan, I decided to live with Bachmann minimalist ones. Honestly, I like to see my locomotives from the side, not from the top, anyway, once weathered, they kind of disappear from sight!

It's also one of the reason I hate to run steamers at the club. They need some care, even more when kitbashed... And also why my future RS-18 bashes with try to get most details correct, but not overdoing it. If I was a one-man operation on a very small ISL, I wouldn't bother!

Matt