2-8-2
Member
I imagine this has been discussed before. It seems like finding a nice switcher in N scale is a hard thing to do, mostly because there simply aren't that many to choose from. I've read a few reviews, and some of the so-called "best" aren't even made anymore. Is there a transition era switcher that stands out from the pack?
I'm interested in discussing "actual" switchers, not road switchers like the RS-1.
STEAM
Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0
- Mixed reviews. Questionable quality control.
- Not really a switcher.
Model Power 4-4-0 American
- Mixed reviews.
- All metal frame has nice weight to it for such a small engine.
- Not really a switcher.
DIESEL
Rivarossi ALCo S-2
- All metal body.
- Most owners like this engine, but all agree that it is noisy compared to others.
- Good luck finding one.
Atlas Fairbanks-Morse VO-1000
- DC and DCC options.
- Comes in two body styles (w/ and w/o step guards).
LifeLike EMD SW-8
- Mixed reviews.
- Seems like a quirky break-in process makes or breaks its performance.
LifeLike EMD SW-1200
- Most seem to think it outperforms the SW-8.
- Very reasonably priced.
There are others that are often mentioned as well, I wasn't trying to make a complete listing...just ones that stood out in my mind. I definitely want to purchase a switcher, but performance is key. My layout is small, and it would have to do its job well.
I think if I were buying one today, I'd be leaning towards the LifeLike SW-1200, just based off what I've read about them. What are your experiences?
I'm interested in discussing "actual" switchers, not road switchers like the RS-1.
STEAM
Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0
- Mixed reviews. Questionable quality control.
- Not really a switcher.
Model Power 4-4-0 American
- Mixed reviews.
- All metal frame has nice weight to it for such a small engine.
- Not really a switcher.
DIESEL
Rivarossi ALCo S-2
- All metal body.
- Most owners like this engine, but all agree that it is noisy compared to others.
- Good luck finding one.
Atlas Fairbanks-Morse VO-1000
- DC and DCC options.
- Comes in two body styles (w/ and w/o step guards).
LifeLike EMD SW-8
- Mixed reviews.
- Seems like a quirky break-in process makes or breaks its performance.
LifeLike EMD SW-1200
- Most seem to think it outperforms the SW-8.
- Very reasonably priced.
There are others that are often mentioned as well, I wasn't trying to make a complete listing...just ones that stood out in my mind. I definitely want to purchase a switcher, but performance is key. My layout is small, and it would have to do its job well.
I think if I were buying one today, I'd be leaning towards the LifeLike SW-1200, just based off what I've read about them. What are your experiences?