WPF 5/28 - 6/3/21

[tompm]

Bruce - liking that Conrail loco and scene.

Charlie - Really nice looking scene and loco.

Deano - a couple of hard working locos there.

Ed - As always awesome steamer.

Wayne - That is a great looking gift.

When Bachmann introduced their Spectrum PRR K-4 some twenty plus years ago I purchased one. It was my first steam loco that actually ran for more than a few weeks. When I created the first layout here at our current house about thirteen or fourteen years ago the loco was used quite a but. Unfortunately this led to a still unexplained derailing that resulted in the loco crashing to the concrete floor. The repairs needed are beyond my skill at this time. Over the years I have looked for a replacement. During the last two years I managed to purchase three replacements but I had to return each one due to serious problems with them. When Bachmann announced a new run last year I of course preordered one. Now there is no word on when they will be released. I do not want the streamline version. I know BLI has a version but I am not willing to pay the prices folks are asking.

The other day I came across an International Hobby Corp PRR 4-6-2 Pacific. This one was a Command XXV Premier Gold version and the price was good. I had never seen this line from IHC. After getting the loco and running I do have to say I am impressed. It is a very smooth runner. While it may not be a K-4 for now it will be a good stand in.