Bachmann 2MT Tank DCC Fitted

Discussion in 'Bachmann RTR' started by Gary, Aug 23, 2016.

  1. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    Bachmann has released the newly reworked 2MT Tank. I have had this on order for the best part of three years ! I originally intended for this loco to run on my Kelly Bray layout, as the 2MT Tank was used on the Callington Branch.

    Ok, the model...

    The earlier Bachmann version had a split chassis which made converting to DCC not very easy, although it could be done. This model with the new chassis tweaks allows for DCC. The model I have purchased is DCC Fitted. Bachmann has chosen is a Zimo MX618 N18 DCC decoder and is located under the coal bunker/cab floor. For sound, Bachmann recommend fitting their pre-programmed sound decoder and the fitment of a sugar cube speaker (no bigger than 15 x 11 x 9mm). The speaker location is in the boiler, above the first pair of driving wheels, between the motor and weight.

    Overall it's a lovely looking loco with plenty of detail. The level of detail is excellent, with no visible mold lines or flash. The transfers (numbers, lines, BR icon) are just as good. The paint is nicely applied as well. A bag of extra detailing parts come with the model as expected, ie, steps, brake gear, hoses and draw link couplings. All the wheels are finished in black. Unfortunately, the model does not come with sprung buffers. The locomotive does have some weight behind it, weighing in at 314 grams. This feels reasonably heavy for a mid sized tank engine that is only just a tad over 6" (154mm) long.

    I was under the impression that Bachmann may have used the original body shell from earlier models on the new chassis, something that Bachmann has done with some of the newer DCC Ready/Fitted models of late. But now I have looked at the owner's manual, I'm not so sure. Not owning an earlier, non dcc ready model, I could be wrong. There has been extensive work in the area where the decoder is located. For example, the decorative bulk head (loco controls) come out for fitting a decoder.

    As for running qualities, I don't know yet, but I will post up a comment at a latter date. If it is anything like previous Bachmann models, it should be smooth as silk. I really need a circle of track for running in locos or one of those fancy loco cradles.

    [​IMG]

    Nicely modelled valve gear.

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    Nice detailing all round. The hand rails and rivet detail is excellent.

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    Looks good from any angle !

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    This pic below is possibly the only real disappointment of the model, dodgy looking coal in the bunker. Of course this can be replace with real coal. :thumbup:

    [​IMG]

    Although I'm no expert on the matter of scoring a model, at the moment I'll give it a 7/10. The only draw backs I can see are the non sprung buffers and dodgy coal. Once I run it in, this score will hopefully go up to a 9/10... :D

    Looking forward to re-coaling, renumbering, weathering and fitting sound to this model.

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  2. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    A very nice looking model you have there Gary - looks like it was worth the wait.

    Paul
     
  3. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    One would look good on Victoria Road ! :thumbup:

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  4. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    I already have the 2-6-0, and the 2-6-4T, both of which were Dundee locomotives.

    [​IMG]

    Needs renumbering to 46464

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    Then both need weathered :eek:

    Paul
     
  5. SMR CHRIS

    SMR CHRIS Staff Member Moderator

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    I liked the original Bachmann version of the 2MT Gary and this new one looks good too the Body looks very similar but the chassis improvements are the biggest plus :thumbs::thumbs:
     
  6. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    That is one nice looking loco Gary. :thumbs: a video of it being put through its paces would be nice. Are you leaving it with tension locks?

    I'll also look forward to the weathering. A bit more difficult than the diesels I suspect.

    Cheers

    Toto
     
  7. SRman

    SRman Full Member

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    Yeah. Wot Chris sed!

    The body is essentially the same as the old model, it is just the chassis that has had the upgrade ... and what a good one that is! I have two of the old ones, both converted to DCC (it's not that hard to do) and both are good runners but not great runners.

    Aside from the easier DCC fitting and (probably) better motor, the biggest visual improvement to the chassis is the inclusion of the motion support bracket, which is totally absent from the old chassis.

    I would like to get one of the new ones but it isn't high on my priorities. Eventually. Maybe. :avatar:
     
  8. Gary

    Gary Wants more time for modelling.... Staff Member Administrator

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    Toto wrote:
    Thanks Toto.

    A video, well maybe, but that will be after weathering !
    I'll use the same methods for weathering as I did on my Jinty. My 4MT Tank also needs weathering so these will be done at the same time. I guess I really need weather the Adams 02 as well then...

    As for tension locks, they will definitely GO ! Kadees for me only !! :thumbs:

    Cheers, Gary.
     
  9. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    May have a look at Hattons. :D
     

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