I have a bachmann plus j class I have cherished spanning my childhood to adulthood. My sentimental attachment to it sways my opinion as to which model one should own in the bachmann series. I adore the bachmann spectrum k4s I own so I imagine the j class spectrums are no exception in detail and overall performance respectfully. I was hoping to here the Bob newhart show theme to start off this video. Hope to here that theme again William. thank you for another great video!
You are the first person to recognize it! Haha that’s awesome. Don’t get me wrong, I love the plus model a lot, I think it’s a great engine at a great price. There’s no real reason to pass on one. The spectrum K4 is fantastic, I had one myself but sent it off to a friend in a trade. I’m working on a new intro as the old one is rather plain for my current portfolio, but the music will return! Thanks much
My spectrum J class can’t pull more than 5 con cor light passenger cars, and it was brand new in the box too, do you think I need traction tires or a new motor?
Here's a very good question did Norfolk and Western actually have dome cars in real life I'm not sure if they did from looking at footage of their passenger trains such as the Powhatan arrow I'm not sure if they did because of tunnel clearances if I'm wrong let me know below
I’m not really sure on that one, I’m no expert on real life passenger equipment and such, I’m better versed in models. I’ve got friend who would know the answer to that.
Is the drive gear able to last long for fair operations at clubs. Preferably, lasting 12 hours for multiple days of a few weeks. I am talking about the Spectrum J.
It depends on which era you buy. The earliest pancake units are super glossy. I can’t speak to the current run of sound value engines but they seem to be glossier than mine but not quite as bad as the original CCS run.
@@gopernoperstrains3160 I just heard another UA-cam reviewer say that the glossy ones are the passenger versions. Not sure if correct.. does that mean its totally wrong to run passenger coaches with a 'freight' version?
@@Danthehorse No, there is no specific paint variation that distinguishes passenger/freight duties. J classes performed both jobs but the engines had no specific paint scheme for their respective assignments. It's acceptable to run either with a j-class regardless of paint finish.
The spectrum model also needs a 24” radius to run. I have 22” and my Class J does NOT like the curves I have… and the track is EZ track. I need the MTH or BLI version.
Your problem is poor trackwork in that you’re using EZ track. All of the curves on my layout are 22” snap track and have been laid carefully on cork and homesote. I’ve almost never had derailment issues
I have a Spectrum + … struggles to perform … on Code 83 Atlas track … 22” radius curve on layout! TOO MANY ISSUES .. 1. REAR TRUCK ASSEMBLY WARPED .. result it contacts the rail causing de-railment. 2. Shortly after running, the MOTOR HAS FAILED .. result … useless 3. OUT OF THE ORIGINAL BOX … it ran loud and “rough” as it accelerated IMO, should have purchased from other than BACHMANN! Their Service and Repair Dept has not “stepped up” to confront the issues … one very similar to another BACHMANN “UNION PACIFIC” 4-8-4 … whose both FRONT & REAR TRUCKM ASSEMBLIES operate so prone to de-railment from their truck design … contact with rails! These “rails” have NO BALLAST … NO EXCUSE for the issues NOW … IS IT NOT STRANGE THAT THE “UP” loco has been discontinued by BACHMANN after a short life span. I AM TOLD, you cannot get the “J Class N & W 4-8-4” from BACHMANN at this time. AVOID BACHMANN .. Even a 0-6-0 ERIE Switcher is a “rough runner”. What a PITY ! AT GOING RATES FOR HO STOCK, WE HOBBYISTS DESERVE BETTER QUALITY.
That is one awesome review of the J class man. You did an outstanding job with it. Love the vid, and love the N&W J class.
I have a bachmann plus j class I have cherished spanning my childhood to adulthood. My sentimental attachment to it sways my opinion as to which model one should own in the bachmann series.
I adore the bachmann spectrum k4s I own so I imagine the j class spectrums are no exception in detail and overall performance respectfully.
I was hoping to here the Bob newhart show theme to start off this video. Hope to here that theme again William. thank you for another great video!
You are the first person to recognize it! Haha that’s awesome. Don’t get me wrong, I love the plus model a lot, I think it’s a great engine at a great price. There’s no real reason to pass on one. The spectrum K4 is fantastic, I had one myself but sent it off to a friend in a trade. I’m working on a new intro as the old one is rather plain for my current portfolio, but the music will return! Thanks much
Great comparison! These videos are excellent! Keep up the great work Will!
Just picked one of the Spectrum Js up for $97 on eBay and I’m blown away by the quality. Nicest Bachmann model I own.
The Spectrum coach colour is something to be desired. I enjoyed your review. Thanks.
My plus has horn coupler on the tender screwed in. What can I replace it with kadee #
Great video Will! It definitely seems appropriate to make a comparison of Bachmanns different J classes considering recent events lol
My spectrum J class can’t pull more than 5 con cor light passenger cars, and it was brand new in the box too, do you think I need traction tires or a new motor?
I got a Bachmann plus j class, I can’t wait to try out my first Norfolk and western 😀
Nice new video like it very much.
Here's a very good question did Norfolk and Western actually have dome cars in real life I'm not sure if they did from looking at footage of their passenger trains such as the Powhatan arrow I'm not sure if they did because of tunnel clearances if I'm wrong let me know below
I have always wondered about vista domes and clearances. The Powhatan is beautiful as well as the California zephyr
I’m not really sure on that one, I’m no expert on real life passenger equipment and such, I’m better versed in models. I’ve got friend who would know the answer to that.
That music is too loud.
Yes, ditch the music.
Is the drive gear able to last long for fair operations at clubs. Preferably, lasting 12 hours for multiple days of a few weeks. I am talking about the Spectrum J.
I want one so bad!!! I have very God-blessed memories of the 611.
I thought the Bachmann versions were gloss finished?
It depends on which era you buy. The earliest pancake units are super glossy. I can’t speak to the current run of sound value engines but they seem to be glossier than mine but not quite as bad as the original CCS run.
@@gopernoperstrains3160 thanks. I cant get on with gloss, just doesn't look right , so I will keep a look out. Lovely models you have there.
@@gopernoperstrains3160 I just heard another UA-cam reviewer say that the glossy ones are the passenger versions. Not sure if correct.. does that mean its totally wrong to run passenger coaches with a 'freight' version?
@@Danthehorse No, there is no specific paint variation that distinguishes passenger/freight duties. J classes performed both jobs but the engines had no specific paint scheme for their respective assignments. It's acceptable to run either with a j-class regardless of paint finish.
@@gopernoperstrains3160 thanks mate, that clears that up. 👍 I think you have a wonderful collection. You just need the uber art deco PPR K4S 😉
The Spectrum is my favorite.
The spectrum model also needs a 24” radius to run. I have 22” and my Class J does NOT like the curves I have… and the track is EZ track. I need the MTH or BLI version.
Your problem is poor trackwork in that you’re using EZ track. All of the curves on my layout are 22” snap track and have been laid carefully on cork and homesote. I’ve almost never had derailment issues
@@gopernoperstrains3160 funny, every one of my other engines has no issues with my track. Some even need 22” and don’t bind.
The cosmetics on the plus J is so *WACK* . Very nice video will
What gauge are these ones
I much prefer the more angled front of the plus models. The spectrum looks too flat.
4:37 Autobots, roll out!!!
EXCELLENT review....
Ditch the music.
Noice
I have a Spectrum + … struggles to perform … on Code 83 Atlas track … 22” radius curve on layout! TOO MANY ISSUES ..
1. REAR TRUCK ASSEMBLY WARPED .. result it contacts the rail causing de-railment.
2. Shortly after running, the MOTOR HAS FAILED .. result … useless
3. OUT OF THE ORIGINAL BOX … it ran loud and “rough” as it accelerated
IMO, should have purchased from other than BACHMANN! Their Service and Repair Dept has not “stepped up” to confront the issues … one very similar to another BACHMANN “UNION PACIFIC” 4-8-4 … whose both FRONT & REAR TRUCKM ASSEMBLIES operate so prone to de-railment from their truck design … contact with rails! These “rails” have NO BALLAST …
NO EXCUSE for the issues
NOW … IS IT NOT STRANGE THAT THE “UP” loco has been discontinued by BACHMANN after a short life span. I AM TOLD, you cannot get the “J Class N & W 4-8-4” from BACHMANN at this time. AVOID BACHMANN .. Even a 0-6-0 ERIE Switcher is a “rough runner”. What a PITY ! AT GOING RATES FOR HO STOCK, WE HOBBYISTS DESERVE BETTER QUALITY.
Kill the music
quit the music🤬