12-12-2011, 05:41 AM
jwb Wrote:.... I'm thinking hard about getting a Bachmann S4 and changing the lettering to Illinois Northern -- slightly easier than doing LAJ.The postman delivered my Bachmann S4 from Train World, NY an hour ago. They are a real bargain!
They have nice details like coupler levers and thin flexible handrails. The paint and finish is nice satin/dull black. The drive and electronic board looks brand new with LED and reminds me very much on the Bachmann 45tons switcher. It runs smooth and much quieter than Bachmanns 44tons and 70tons switcher. It is certainly a new generation of Bachmann entry market engines.
They are currently doing their break in run to become even better.
I will use them as base for a possible LAJ modification some time later. My Atlas S2 are to rare and valuable to become forced into a LAJ look. btw. the Atlas S2 and the Bachmann S4 looks absolute the same side by side with 2' distance.
Three points I have to mention
- The frame and truck is gloss black. That needs to be toned down.
- The coupler pocket are to small for Kadee whisker couplers. Kadee pocket fit perfect after some minor trimming.
- The cab sides of the Atlas S2 has rivets etc. The Bachmann cab sides are plain without details.
Reinhard