Re: Accucraft prototypes at Intl Toy Fair
Vance, The Accucraft model will probably be to little hands on. There is always something to do to Aster models that is if the wind doesn't blow the fire out! The Accucraft K-27 is almost boring, fire her up and let her run for the next 50 minutes. (almost like an electric model) The boiler on a Big Boy must be vast. Bert. - Bert Edmunda [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: Accucraft SP )^) Colors
I found the answer to my own quwstion. You can find the colors of the various switchers at: _http://www.cryergrayfoundry.com/main/locomotive_060_SP_models.shtml_ (http://www.cryergrayfoundry.com/main/locomotive_060_SP_models.shtml) Er, Don... I hate to rain on your parade (and Trotfox's!) but that's an S-scale model. Doesn't seem to have anything to do with Accucraft. Pete
Re: Accucraft SP )^) Colors
Pete, Actually it does. Cliff at Accucraft told me that the colors they were going to use came from a line of metal models that were being imported to the US. He thought they were HO but wasn't sure. Hard to believe a company selling $2,000 models not having any color pictures of the product line to offer theirr customers. Don From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: sslivesteam@colegroup.com To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam sslivesteam@colegroup.com Subject: Re: Accucraft SP )^) Colors Date: Fri, 28 Jan 2005 10:53:11 EST I found the answer to my own quwstion. You can find the colors of the various switchers at: _http://www.cryergrayfoundry.com/main/locomotive_060_SP_models.shtml_ (http://www.cryergrayfoundry.com/main/locomotive_060_SP_models.shtml) Er, Don... I hate to rain on your parade (and Trotfox's!) but that's an S-scale model. Doesn't seem to have anything to do with Accucraft. Pete
Re: Accucraft SP )^) Colors
oOO I really like the dark blue one... Who wants to get me one for my Birthday? =D Trot, the silly, fox... On Thu, 27 Jan 2005 09:54:11 -0500, Don Plasterer [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I found the answer to my own quwstion. You can find the colors of the various switchers at: http://www.cryergrayfoundry.com/main/locomotive_060_SP_models.shtml Don -- | /\_/\ TrotFox \ Always remember, | ( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon \ There is a | \_/ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft 1:32 freight car
Ohhh, I like! Any info on pricing? Is that correct - 6 car sets only, no singles?!? I am glad to see some more 1:32 cars showing up, it has been pretty slim pick'ens. A couple dozen of these would look nice behind the Mikado :-) Regards, PeteH A webpage showing a really nice 1:32 refrigerator car showed up recently on the Accucraft/AMS website. See http://www.amstrains.com/main1-32.htm Hopefully this implies that more 1:32 motive power from Accucraft is on the way!
Re: Accucraft German website
I like that LYN myself, Looks like it would not take much effort to give it an American look. Michael Floriduh USA Iron Nut - Original Message - From: Ciambrone, Steve @ OS [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 5:23 PM Subject: RE: Accucraft German website Look under the News page. http://www.accucraft.de/News/news.html Mona is a 2-4-0 configuration, very english. Steve -Original Message- From: The Sagers [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 1:49 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Re: Accucraft German website Hey Steve, Read your post and was curious what Mona looked like. Searched all over the site but can't locate Mona. Vic - Original Message - From: Ciambrone, Steve @ OS [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 8:25 AM Subject: RE: Accucraft German website WOW, I got to have one of those Mona engines, very Pretty. Steve -Original Message- From: Jeffrey Williams [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, November 10, 2003 6:41 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft German website Check out http://www.accucraft.de/Produkte/produkte.html
Re: Accucraft German website
Isn't the Raritan American? Also a 2-4-0 ? BocaMikey - Original Message - From: Mike Chaney [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 5:58 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft German website Steve wrote:- Mona is a 2-4-0 configuration, very english. That's right. Made in England by Beyer Peacock in 1874 for the Isle of Man Railway (which is not in England.) See http://freespace.virgin.net/e.more/loco4-6.html Mike
Re: Accucraft German website
On 12/11/03 10:44, mdenning [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I like that LYN myself, Looks like it would not take much effort to give it an American look. Michael Floriduh USA Iron Nut Original was built in the USA ;-) -- Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon Office Saltash Cornwall Directors: T. Gorton, Madame E. Lash
Re: Accucraft Spare Parts: Live Steam
Accucraft has some beautiful engines offered, it would be great if they could get their act together in regards to spare and replacement parts! I've been trying to get a complete parts list for the "Ruby", and as of yet, no joy. I've requested their Illustrated parts catalog, had their glossy engine and rolling stock sheets sent. Finally got a very incomplete list of snow plows, one fuel tank, "trim" pieces nothing as far as drivers, steam valves, pistons you know the things that wear out and may need to be replaced. At this point I am very surprised at how poor their customer service has been. Dan McGrath. From: Jeffrey Williams <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Accucraft German website Date: Mon, 10 Nov 2003 18:41:03 -0800 Check out http://www.accucraft.de/Produkte/produkte.html Not only does this website show several European-pattern locomotives not shown on the US website, but also lists a live steam K-28! Concerned that messages may bounce because your Hotmail account is over limit? Get Hotmail Extra Storage!
Re: Accucraft Spare Parts: Live Steam
Dan, Contact Cliff Luscher directly at Accucraft. He's been very responsive when I needed help. His telephone number is: 510-324-3399. If you send an email to Accucraft, put Message for Cliff in the subject line to be sure of reaching him. Jeff === Daniel McGrath wrote: Accucraft has some beautiful engines offered, it would be great if they could get their act together in regards to spare and replacement parts! I've been trying to get a complete parts list for the Ruby, and as of yet, no joy. I've requested their Illustrated parts catalog, had their glossy engine and rolling stock sheets sent. Finally got a very incomplete list of snow plows, one fuel tank, trim pieces nothing as far as drivers, steam valves, pistons you know the things that wear out and may need to be replaced. At this point I am very surprised at how poor their customer service has been. Dan McGrath. From: Jeffrey Williams Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft German website Date: Mon, 10 Nov 2003 18:41:03 -0800 Check out http://www.accucraft.de/Produkte/produkte.html Not only does this website show several European-pattern locomotives not shown on the US website, but also lists a live steam K-28! Concerned that messages may bounce because your Hotmail account is over limit? Get Hotmail Extra Storage! http://g.msn.com/8HMAENUS/2734??PS=
RE: Accucraft German website
WOW, I got to have one of those Mona engines, very Pretty. Steve -Original Message- From: Jeffrey Williams [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, November 10, 2003 6:41 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft German website Check out http://www.accucraft.de/Produkte/produkte.html Not only does this website show several European-pattern locomotives not shown on the US website, but also lists a live steam K-28!
Re: Accucraft German website
Hey Steve, Read your post and was curious what Mona looked like. Searched all over the site but can't locate Mona. Vic - Original Message - From: Ciambrone, Steve @ OS [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 8:25 AM Subject: RE: Accucraft German website WOW, I got to have one of those Mona engines, very Pretty. Steve -Original Message- From: Jeffrey Williams [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, November 10, 2003 6:41 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft German website Check out http://www.accucraft.de/Produkte/produkte.html Not only does this website show several European-pattern locomotives not shown on the US website, but also lists a live steam K-28!
RE: Accucraft German website
Look under the News page. http://www.accucraft.de/News/news.html Mona is a 2-4-0 configuration, very english. Steve -Original Message- From: The Sagers [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 1:49 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Re: Accucraft German website Hey Steve, Read your post and was curious what Mona looked like. Searched all over the site but can't locate Mona. Vic - Original Message - From: Ciambrone, Steve @ OS [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 8:25 AM Subject: RE: Accucraft German website WOW, I got to have one of those Mona engines, very Pretty. Steve -Original Message- From: Jeffrey Williams [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, November 10, 2003 6:41 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft German website Check out http://www.accucraft.de/Produkte/produkte.html Not only does this website show several European-pattern locomotives not shown on the US website, but also lists a live steam K-28!
Re: Accucraft German website
Steve wrote:- Mona is a 2-4-0 configuration, very english. That's right. Made in England by Beyer Peacock in 1874 for the Isle of Man Railway (which is not in England.) See http://freespace.virgin.net/e.more/loco4-6.html Mike
RE: Accucraft K-27
Jeff, Already read the review. Great job! Very accurate analysis. I have seen 463 and 464 many times, just none of the others and no 453 anywhere! Chuck Walters Twin Lakes Railway http://home.twcny.rr.com/twinlakesrw -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Jeffrey Williams Sent: Sunday, September 07, 2003 11:24 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Re: Accucraft K-27 Chuck, I have a green #461. It will be featured in a review in the soon-to-be-delivered Steam in the Garden. You can see photos of it by Mike Martin at: http://www.panyo.com/dan2/ My K-27 is on photos # 1, 7, 10, 12, 13 In addition, I will send you photos by off-line email I am very pleased with this loco - looks great and runs great. Not a loco for a beginner, though - a few teething problems at first but eventually can be wrung out. Needs a lot of clearance to the scenery, though! Jeff Williams == Chuck Walters wrote: Does anyone have pictures of the K-27 in the 453 or the 461 in green paint schemes posted someplace? I would love to take a look at each before I order. Chuck Walters Twin Lakes Railway http://home.twcny.rr.com/twinlakesrw
Re: Accucraft K-27
Chuck, I have a green #461. It will be featured in a review in the soon-to-be-delivered Steam in the Garden. You can see photos of it by Mike Martin at: http://www.panyo.com/dan2/ My K-27 is on photos # 1, 7, 10, 12, 13 In addition, I will send you photos by off-line email I am very pleased with this loco - looks great and runs great. Not a loco for a beginner, though - a few teething problems at first but eventually can be wrung out. Needs a lot of clearance to the scenery, though! Jeff Williams == Chuck Walters wrote: Does anyone have pictures of the K-27 in the 453 or the 461 in green paint schemes posted someplace? I would love to take a look at each before I order. Chuck Walters Twin Lakes Railway http://home.twcny.rr.com/twinlakesrw
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
At 08:33 AM 3/16/03 -0800, you wrote: What . . . products/features would Accucraft (or Aster) need to offer to induce you to buy one of their products? They already know the answer to that question . . . . MY favorite locomotive, finely engineered, with detail rendered at or near museum quality, in the fuel of my choice, for no more money than I can successfully hide from or explain away to my spouse. :-) Regards, Harry
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
One more observation, Aster productions sell out in a relative shot time,with one exception, the CS mogul, This was narrow gauge gas fired. Pruduced in 1991 with a total production of 480 units, and they are still avalible new from aster dealers. Thats a very slow mover! It was 11 years before offering another gas fired engine, and it is the JNR B20 an 0-4-0 offered in 2002 ith a total production of 200 units. Aster has produced almost 60 different engines, many were offered in 2,3 different versions. i.e.: USRA Mikado ,black or green, : Jumbo,in LNWR black,LMS red, LMS black. That is to say Accucraft would count all K- 27 as One and all C-16 as One . I have never heard any production numbers for Accucraft or Round House, is this information available? I would think Accucraft would have to have good production numbers to support their low prices. Thanks Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
Great answer Harry! - Original Message - From: Harry Wade [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2003 12:00 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys At 08:33 AM 3/16/03 -0800, you wrote: What . . . products/features would Accucraft (or Aster) need to offer to induce you to buy one of their products? They already know the answer to that question . . . . MY favorite locomotive, finely engineered, with detail rendered at or near museum quality, in the fuel of my choice, for no more money than I can successfully hide from or explain away to my spouse. :-) Regards, Harry
RE: Accucraft and Aster surveys
Harry, Where can I get one and when. I want to give someone a deposit ;-) Ken -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Harry Wade Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2003 10:01 AM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys At 08:33 AM 3/16/03 -0800, you wrote: What . . . products/features would Accucraft (or Aster) need to offer to induce you to buy one of their products? They already know the answer to that question . . . . MY favorite locomotive, finely engineered, with detail rendered at or near museum quality, in the fuel of my choice, for no more money than I can successfully hide from or explain away to my spouse. :-) Regards, Harry
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
At 12:10 PM 3/16/03 -0500, you wrote: Great answer Harry! Callin' em as I see'um Jeff.
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
That's about $5! No, I didn't leave out any 0's... };] Trot, the budgeted, fox... On Sun, 16 Mar 2003, Harry Wade wrote: They already know the answer to that question . . . . MY favorite locomotive, finely engineered, with detail rendered at or near museum quality, in the fuel of my choice, for no more money than I can successfully hide from or explain away to my spouse. :-) Regards, Harry /\_/\TrotFox\ Always remember, ( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon \ There is a \./ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
At 12:07 PM 3/16/03 -0500, you wrote: One more observation, Aster productions sell out in a relative short time, with one exception, the CS mogul, This was narrow gauge gas fired. Jeff, That wasn't always the case, and IMHO gauge and fuel rarely have anything to do with it. The Schools for instance took forever to sell because early in their history Aster grossly overestimated the potential market for such a model. It took years, and becomming known as a bulletproof runner, for it to finally sell out. In the US, when Ga1 was still just a curiosity, if you were far enought ahead of the curve you could get a steal of a deal from hobby shops anxious to unload them. To a somewhat lesser extent I think the Pannier was another example. They sold OK, but didn't go all that quickly, until they became known as good reliable runners. But those were international market items. The CS Mogul by all indications should have sold out in a flash - good looking, well built, well detailed, and a natural for the US Ga1 market. It had everything going for it, but you know how people will talk, and what they were saying was It won't run - it's my $3.5K bookend. A few had success, but most didn't. What this says to me is that first consideration for almost everyone is consistant running and size, gauge, scale, fuel, and to some extent even appearance aren't as important as whether it runs well. Regards, Harry
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
I would agree - however I keep track of all the hair salon tallies, and since I buzz what's left of my hair once a week myself I only see it fair that I spend the equivalent on an item of my choice. :-) Viva la hairloss:-) Cheers Ferdinand On Sunday, March 16, 2003, at 01:11 PM, TrotFox Greyfoot wrote: That's about $5! No, I didn't leave out any 0's... };] Trot, the budgeted, fox... On Sun, 16 Mar 2003, Harry Wade wrote: They already know the answer to that question . . . . MY favorite locomotive, finely engineered, with detail rendered at or near museum quality, in the fuel of my choice, for no more money than I can successfully hide from or explain away to my spouse. :-) Regards, Harry /\_/\TrotFox\ Always remember, ( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon \ There is a \./ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
Ya know... that's an angle I hadn't thought of! Makes going bald not so
bad. ;]
Now if only it wasn't all leaving so slowly (going thin all over the top
but not truly bald.)
Isn't 25 too young for serious hair loss? {:]
Trot, the hormone-effected, fox...
On Sun, 16 Mar 2003, FBM Studios wrote:
I would agree - however I keep track of all the hair salon tallies, and
since
I buzz what's left of my hair once a week myself I only see it fair
that I spend the equivalent on an item of my choice. :-)
Viva la hairloss:-)
Cheers Ferdinand
/\_/\TrotFox\ Always remember,
( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon \ There is a
\./ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
The serial number plate on my K-27 says that it's 44/100. That's a small production run, even by Aster standards Jeff Runge wrote: One more observation, Aster productions sell out in a relative shot time,with one exception, the CS mogul, This was narrow gauge gas fired. Pruduced in 1991 with a total production of 480 units, and they are still avalible new from aster dealers. Thats a very slow mover! It was 11 years before offering another gas fired engine, and it is the JNR B20 an 0-4-0 offered in 2002 ith a total production of 200 units. Aster has produced almost 60 different engines, many were offered in 2,3 different versions. i.e.: USRA Mikado ,black or green, : Jumbo,in LNWR black,LMS red, LMS black. That is to say Accucraft would count all K- 27 as One and all C-16 as One . I have never heard any production numbers for Accucraft or Round House, is this information available? I would think Accucraft would have to have good production numbers to support their low prices. Thanks Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
Jeff W., 100 units, that is a small run, do you think that includes all the different versions? Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft and Aster surveys
Jeff R: I don't know the answer to that. They send the buyer his serial number shortly after one puts down the 10% deposit. Doesn't make sense that they would plan in advance to build 100 each of all five versions, since they don't know in advance which versions will be most popular. Supposedly, they are built to order, implying 100 total build. jeff W. = Jeff Runge wrote: Jeff W., 100 units, that is a small run, do you think that includes all the different versions? Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Really exciting Jeff! I saw the sparkie version at The Train Shop Yesterday. Looks nice. I really have to convince Bing, Charlie and Cliff to start thinking hard about a live steam version of their West Side Heisler!! I would love one of those. Can't wait to see that Daylight in action. Eric Maschwitz www.grabiron.com On Friday, March 14, 2003, at 07:06 PM, Jeffrey Williams wrote: Over the past year, there's been a lot of tantalizing hints about a live steam SP Daylight GS-4 from Accucraft. St. Aubin Station started taking deposits on this loco nine months ago. Being one of the world's greatest optimists, I plunked down my deposit. Now I've got some confidence that I will eventually see that loco. Here's today's response from Cliff Luscher from Accucraft as an addendum to a question about my K-27: Dear Jeff, I am glad that your problem is solved for the K-27 live steam loco. Bing, the owner of the company, told me this morning that we will have GS-4 live steam in approximately a year. It is the next locomotive to be engineered into a live steam locomotive after our C-21 comes out this summer. The Daylight Passenger Cars are due out soon. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you for your inquiry. Cliff Accucraft Trains == OhBoyOhBoyOhBoy!!!
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
My only gripe is the price. But, considering the amount of work to make one, which one of us would make them for that amount of money and still feed his family? Perhaps we not so rich live steamers need to consider buying trains like some plane owners do, as a consortium or small group who pool their money and schedule time to play with their expensive toy. Gary - Running trains over Terror Trestle in Eugene, Oregon http://www.angelfire.com/or/trainguy http://community.webshots.com/user/raltzenthor Really exciting Jeff! I saw the sparkie version at The Train Shop Yesterday. Looks nice. I really have to convince Bing, Charlie and Cliff to start thinking hard about a live steam version of their West Side Heisler!! I would love one of those. Can't wait to see that Daylight in action. Eric Maschwitz www.grabiron.com On Friday, March 14, 2003, at 07:06 PM, Jeffrey Williams wrote: Over the past year, there's been a lot of tantalizing hints about a live steam SP Daylight GS-4 from Accucraft. St. Aubin Station started taking deposits on this loco nine months ago. Being one of the world's greatest optimists, I plunked down my deposit. Now I've got some confidence that I will eventually see that loco. Here's today's response from Cliff Luscher from Accucraft as an addendum to a question about my K-27: Dear Jeff, I am glad that your problem is solved for the K-27 live steam loco. Bing, the owner of the company, told me this morning that we will have GS-4 live steam in approximately a year. It is the next locomotive to be engineered into a live steam locomotive after our C-21 comes out this summer. The Daylight Passenger Cars are due out soon. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thank you for your inquiry. Cliff Accucraft Trains == OhBoyOhBoyOhBoy!!!
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Have they determined fuel type yet? In a recent survey almost 80% of current steamers prefer spirit fireing over gas. If they feel the need to offer gas for the newbees, maybe they could do dual fuel, maybe gas/coal... Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Where was this survey at? Who was surveyed? Where is it reported? Mike Eorgoff - Original Message - From: Jeff Runge [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2003 1:17 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real! Have they determined fuel type yet? In a recent survey almost 80% of current steamers prefer spirit fireing over gas. If they feel the need to offer gas for the newbees, maybe they could do dual fuel, maybe gas/coal... Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
In a recent survey almost 80% of current steamers prefer spirit fireing over gas. Jeff, that's a very interesting statistic! I'm curious who conducted the survey, who responded, etc. Although alcohol is the traditional fuel in the UK, all the currently available locos from Roundhouse and Accucraft (the Ford and GM of the industry) run on gas. So I wonder, who's buying these things, the best-sellers for the general public, and who's answering the survey? regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
In a message dated 3/15/03 11:22:44 AM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: maybe they could do dual fuel, maybe gas/coal... I would sure be interested in where that survey came from!? I think that it would be rather difficult to coal fire a gas flue tubed boiler. You do sort of need a firebox for coal! Best you could do would be a radiant heater that could be exchanged for grates. Bob
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Bob: Aster Bigboy is coal/gas fired, Allegheny is alchy/coal, other engines are mixed fuel types as well. Jim
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
The survey was taken by Aster, It was almost a year ago, they wanted input on what we wanted to see next in a U.S./ North American outline engine, and what type of fuel, I don't remember what other questions. However the results showed almost as many different engines an there were responses to the survey. But the one thing that was VERY conclusive was the preference for spirit firing. I have owned gas fired engines and I never had any of the problems I read about, other then the cold weather.( It was a Frank S, which I ran in the snow with RC, when finished the fuel tank would be empty and covered with ice!) However I much prefer spirit fired engines, as do many others in this hobby. Aster it appears is aware of this, looking at all recent offerings. I hope Accucraft gives it a try. Jeff in NC
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
It certainly makes sense that it would be Aster. Their past products have been more aligned with the UK/European tastes than American. And, given that so many of their previous locos have been alcohol fired, it also makes sense that the people responding to an Aster survey (i.e., current Aster owners, I suspect) would prefer what Aster has already made. It would be really interesting to see the same survey conducted by Roundhouse or Accucraft. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Vance, In a recent conversation with Jim Pitts, he talked about doing a survey to see Who is in this hobby, and collect information like: age, background,education,where do you live, how many engines, what kind, ect,ect. some information may be sensitive like income so one would need to be discreet or anonymous. This survey would cover everyone willing to respond. He is not sure how to reach everyone? not everyone has internet access, and the closest thing to a mailing list would come from DH and local clubs. not very cost effective. The down side of doing this survey is it may scare away the manufactures.( given the average age one would expect) hehe. Jeff in NC - Original Message - From: Vance Bass [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2003 5:13 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real! It certainly makes sense that it would be Aster. Their past products have been more aligned with the UK/European tastes than American. And, given that so many of their previous locos have been alcohol fired, it also makes sense that the people responding to an Aster survey (i.e., current Aster owners, I suspect) would prefer what Aster has already made. It would be really interesting to see the same survey conducted by Roundhouse or Accucraft. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
I don't see any reason why a limited sampling of all listers wouldn't be of great interest to manufacturers. And to the listers. I, for one, would like to see a survey such as Mr Pitts suggested, even knowing that the universe is constrained by those with internet access (or, more accurately, members of this list). Just my 2¢. royce in SB Jeff Runge wrote: Vance, In a recent conversation with Jim Pitts, he talked about doing a survey to see Who is in this hobby, and collect information like: age, background,education,where do you live, how many engines, what kind, ect,ect. some information may be sensitive like income so one would need to be discreet or anonymous. This survey would cover everyone willing to respond. He is not sure how to reach everyone? not everyone has internet access, and the closest thing to a mailing list would come from DH and local clubs. not very cost effective. The down side of doing this survey is it may scare away the manufactures.( given the average age one would expect) hehe. Jeff in NC - Original Message - From: Vance Bass [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2003 5:13 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real! It certainly makes sense that it would be Aster. Their past products have been more aligned with the UK/European tastes than American. And, given that so many of their previous locos have been alcohol fired, it also makes sense that the people responding to an Aster survey (i.e., current Aster owners, I suspect) would prefer what Aster has already made. It would be really interesting to see the same survey conducted by Roundhouse or Accucraft. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Is butane or alcohol more readily available world wide? Gary - Running trains over Terror Trestle in Eugene, Oregon http://www.angelfire.com/or/trainguy http://community.webshots.com/user/raltzenthor - Original Message - From: Vance Bass To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2003 2:13 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real! It certainly makes sense that it would be Aster. Their past products have been more aligned with the UK/European tastes than American. And, given that so many of their previous locos have been alcohol fired, it also makes sense that the people responding to an Aster survey (i.e., current Aster owners, I suspect) would prefer what Aster has already made. It would be really interesting to see the same survey conducted by Roundhouse or Accucraft. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Gary, With a little looking,I think you can find butane or alcohol almost anywhere. BTW I like your web site, always makes me smile, the audio is great! Jeff in NC - Original Message - From: Gary [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2003 9:31 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real! Is butane or alcohol more readily available world wide? Gary - Running trains over Terror Trestle in Eugene, Oregon http://www.angelfire.com/or/trainguy http://community.webshots.com/user/raltzenthor - Original Message - From: Vance Bass To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2003 2:13 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real! It certainly makes sense that it would be Aster. Their past products have been more aligned with the UK/European tastes than American. And, given that so many of their previous locos have been alcohol fired, it also makes sense that the people responding to an Aster survey (i.e., current Aster owners, I suspect) would prefer what Aster has already made. It would be really interesting to see the same survey conducted by Roundhouse or Accucraft. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: Accucraft live steam Daylight GS-4: It's for real!
Is butane or alcohol more readily available world wide? Definitely alcohol! And, should commercial supplies get scarce, you can make your own, which you definitely cannot say about butane. A butane-fired loco is similar to your current automobile (if you're an average citizen). It's highly dependent on a technological infrastructure that you have no influence over and whose technology you have no access to. If Chrysler goes under and the fuel injection control module in your new PT Cruiser goes bad, you're screwed. But I still see Studebakers and Ramblers trundling around the streets of Albuquerque (original owner!). The infrastructure required to keep them running is much less specialized and lower-tech than the newer cars, and the same can be said of the alcohol/butane debate, I fear. Still, all but one of our locos here on the FHPB are butane-fired, and I trust that I'd be able to rig something up to fire them if butane became unavailable. Maybe even a new alcohol-fired boiler, the equivalent of putting a carbureted Studebaker engine into your ailing Cruiser! So, I'm not too worried. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
RE: Accucraft info
510-483-6900 Steve -Original Message- From: FBM Studios [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] Sent: Thursday, January 16, 2003 2:43 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft info Hi Everyone Does anyone have the phone number for accucraft in the US. Thanks Ferdinand
Re: Accucraft info
Hi Steve That is the same number I have - Its been terminated. Out of service Thanks Ferdinand On Thursday, January 16, 2003, at 05:45 PM, Ciambrone, Steve @ OS wrote: 510-483-6900 Steve -Original Message- From: FBM Studios [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] Sent: Thursday, January 16, 2003 2:43 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft info Hi Everyone Does anyone have the phone number for accucraft in the US. Thanks Ferdinand
Re: Accucraft info
the web site has 510-324-3399. and when i just called it, somebody said, accucraft. \dmc At 6:15 PM -0500 1/16/03, FBM Studios wrote: Hi Steve That is the same number I have - Its been terminated. Out of service Thanks Ferdinand On Thursday, January 16, 2003, at 05:45 PM, Ciambrone, Steve @ OS wrote: 510-483-6900 Steve -Original Message- From: FBM Studios [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] Sent: Thursday, January 16, 2003 2:43 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft info Hi Everyone Does anyone have the phone number for accucraft in the US. Thanks Ferdinand -- ^^^ Dave Cole Gen'l Sup't: Grand Teton Everglades Steam Excursion Co. Pacifica, Calif. USA http://45mm.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List Mom: sslivesteam, the list of small-scale live steamers mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ATTEND THE NATIONAL SUMMER STEAMUP IN SACRAMENTO, JULY 17-20, 2003 For more information, visit the web site at http://www.summersteamup.com ^^^
Re: Accucraft K-27
How long is it? Mike Eorgoff near Chicago - Original Message - From: Dave Hottmann [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, December 09, 2002 11:52 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft K-27 Ran mine at Clark Lord's Saturday. Pictures on SitG Message Board. Dave Hottmann Washington,Ut - Original Message - From: Vance Bass [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, December 09, 2002 10:07 PM Subject: Accucraft K-27 Word has it that the Accucraft K-27s are starting to be delivered. Can I get a witness? -vance- Is it too much to demand? I want a full house and a rock-and-roll band, Pens that won't run out of ink, and cool quiet and time to think. Shouldn't I have all of this, and passionate kisses? - Lucinda Williams
Re: Accucraft K-27
At 10:07 PM -0700 12/9/02, Vance Bass wrote: Word has it that the Accucraft K-27s are starting to be delivered. Can I get a witness? to confirm that there isn't just one out there, a k-27 ran on my layout on saturday morning. pictures will be posted when i get the chance. how long is it? it's a big sonofabitch. \dmc -- ^^^ Dave Cole Gen'l Sup't: Grand Teton Everglades Steam Excursion Co. Pacifica, Calif. USA http://45mm.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List Mom: sslivesteam, the list of small-scale live steamers mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ^^^
Re: Accucraft K-27
I have seen the K-27, it is gorgeous. Thanks for the pictures. What sort of track? I notice this is a drier climate than wet Eugene, Oregon. Having just remove leaves from gutters for the fifth time this fall/winter. Track needs clearing of leaves everytime I run this time of year. Gary - chilling in Eugene, Oregon http://www.angelfire.com/or/trainguy http://community.webshots.com/user/raltzenthor - Original Message - From: Phil Paskos To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Sent: Monday, December 09, 2002 10:28 PM Subject: Re: Accucraft K-27 Looks good Clark; Thanks for sharing the pictures which also look good. Phil Check out these Vance. Dave Hottmann was running his Saturday on my layout. That's 22 cars behind that engine. http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27a.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27b.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27c.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27d.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27e.jpg Clark
Re: Accucraft K-27
Check out these Vance. Dave Hottmann was running his Saturday on my layout. That's 22 cars behind that engine. http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27a.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27b.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27c.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27d.jpg http://home.earthlink.net/~clarklord/_images/k27e.jpg Clark Vance Bass wrote: Word has it that the Accucraft K-27s are starting to be delivered. Can I get a witness? -vance- Is it too much to demand? I want a full house and a rock-and-roll band, Pens that won't run out of ink, and cool quiet and time to think. Shouldn't I have all of this, and passionate kisses? - Lucinda Williams
Re: Accucraft K-27
Ran mine at Clark Lord's Saturday. Pictures on SitG Message Board. Dave Hottmann Washington,Ut - Original Message - From: Vance Bass [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, December 09, 2002 10:07 PM Subject: Accucraft K-27 Word has it that the Accucraft K-27s are starting to be delivered. Can I get a witness? -vance- Is it too much to demand? I want a full house and a rock-and-roll band, Pens that won't run out of ink, and cool quiet and time to think. Shouldn't I have all of this, and passionate kisses? - Lucinda Williams
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
On 12/11/02 2:21, Gary [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks to Trot the opinionated, I now know RH manufactures models made for continued operation, while Accucraft manufactures a working model, that requires higher repair costs to keep the model operational as wear exacts it's inevitable toll. Not actually quite so simple Gary - this is tied up also with costs, both initial and ongoing. Trot is right - we don't yet know the cost of replacement parts such as cylinder back plates, coupling and connecting rods etc. Nevertheless the initial cost of a Superior is significantly lower than that of a Lady Anne and I would have thought replacement parts would be similar. In terms of wear and bearing in mind the long bronze bushes on the axles, we are looking at replacement of cylinder backplates, rods and gudgeon pins. On Roundhouse we are looking at rods, pins, radius rods and expansion link where wear is going to happen because, like the Accucraft Superior, none of this is bushed. Replacement of these will cost around 80 ukp altho' I may be out of date here. I have run unbushed locomotives (Merlin Roundhouse and Pearse) for many years and my Pearse Countess was the first to suffer with ovals in the con and coupling rods. In fact Pearse supplied we with a new set for 20 sovs and I bronze bushed these myself to avoid this problem in the future. Many people will not actually hit any significant wear because they just don't run their locomotives as much as I do but do be aware that all of these little dragons suffer from wear of these moving parts to a greater or lesser degree and all should be maintained. If you want a locomotive that will not wear in any sort of significant time scale and will still be unworn when you cross over the bar and pass it on to your grand children then I can only suggest you look at Cheddar Models - Samson, Riesa and (soon) Goliath. Comparable in price to Roundhouse R/C locos these models are superbly engineered and all the running gear is bronze bushed. http://www.modelsteam.co.uk/ Check out the news section for latest models. I have one of these locomotives and have been most impressed with the build quality. US garden steamers will be pleased also to note that the gas tanks are DESIGNED to use propane/butane mix not butane only. Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon Office Saltash Cornwall Directors: T. Gorton, Madame E. Lash
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
Hello Group, Since we're on the subject, I'll air my only real complaint with Roundhouse... They have no functioning crossheads on the cylinders. Because of this, the rear covers wear oblong and quickly develop leaks. (particularly if you run frequently and pull heavy trains, as I did with mine) What bugs me most, however, is the fact that older Roundhouse engines (Dylan, Pooter, Colonial, etc...) DID have functioning crossheads. Why the engineering step backwards? I dunno... to lower costs? Simplify production? Thought crossheads weren't really needed? I miss the older Roundhouse engines - quiet alcohol fired, pot boilered, nice(r) cylinders. Of course, crossheads could be turned up and guide bars fitted, as Kevin Oconnor and Larry Bangham did on their Rubies but I sold all my Roundhouse engines instead. I have lots of respect for Accucraft because they have chosen to build their standard gauge models in the correct 1:32 scale... Can't wait to get my Southern Pacific GS3!!! I do still believe Roundhouse to be a pretty good value... Regards, -Jon
RE: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
My Roundhouse Colonial sees far more running than my Ida and Exclesior for these same reasons, It will run for 30 minutes with only an occasional stop for some more meths. I do a lot of cussing when I run the gas burners, once the wicks are initially adjusted on a meths burner they have a very consistant burn. The gas burners need constant adjustment and do not hold enough fuel for my liking. I may change my Ida to a Tram engine with a new boiler with a meths burner and the Exclesior may get a larger fuel tank. I do not mind refueling during a run or using the goodall valve for more water but I find having to refill fuel and water during the same run too much trouble. This is the reason why I passed on the Accucraft Shay engine, I really did not like the way the Ida and Excelsior operated. Steve Ciambrone -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] I miss the older Roundhouse engines - quiet alcohol fired, pot boilered, nice(r) cylinders.
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
Of course adding a radiant burner greatly increases burn time for a Butane poker burner. My Steamlines shay almost doubled operating time for one fill of the butane. - Original Message - From: Ciambrone, Steve @ OS To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Sent: Tuesday, November 12, 2002 11:20 AM Subject: RE: Accucraft vs Roundhouse My Roundhouse Colonial sees far more running than my Ida and Exclesior for these same reasons, It will run for 30 minutes with only an occasional stop for some more meths. I do a lot of cussing when I run the gas burners, once the wicks are initially adjusted on a meths burner they have a very consistant burn. The gas burners need constant adjustment and do not hold enough fuel for my liking. I may change my Ida to a Tram engine with a new boiler with a meths burner and the Exclesior may get a larger fuel tank. I do not mind refueling during a run or using the goodall valve for more water but I find having to refill fuel and water during the same run too much trouble. This is the reason why I passed on the Accucraft Shay engine, I really did not like the way the Ida and Excelsior operated. Steve Ciambrone -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [SMTP:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] I miss the older Roundhouse engines - quiet alcohol fired, pot boilered, nice(r) cylinders.
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
On 11/11/02 5:31, Phil Paskos [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: O.K. I'll bite on this one too. I've never seen any Roundhouse that spewed oil all over the track. Also, the expression runs like a Roundhouse is a compliment on their design and quality control that they deserve. Phil Hmmm. Mine do. As do any other make of locomotive once fitted with my chuff pipe. In fact the steam oil has to go somewhere and I prefer it to drop between the frames rather than out of the stack and all over the locomotive and trainbut then my rails are not electrified for LGB or similar plastic rats (ducks rapidly) :-) -- Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon Office Saltash Cornwall Directors: T. Gorton, Madame E. Lash
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
On 11/11/02 18:35, Landon Solomon [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'd have to vote for Roundhouse being best. My Ruby leaks like a sieve... but I don't even have my RH engine together yet so I can't say much. ;] Trot, the slowly-planning, fox... Cannot really compare a bottom of the range Ruby with a Roundhouse Trot - Superior shows up well however when compared to a manual Lady Anne. -- Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon Office Saltash Cornwall Directors: T. Gorton, Madame E. Lash
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
The Accucraft v. Roundhouse debate can't be answered right now. That can only be answered in a few years, after the earliest Accucrafts (of which I have one) have been run into the ground the same way Roundhouse locos have been over the years. It's a lot like those initial satisfaction statements car manufacturers make. I personally don't care if everyone who's bought a Chevy in the past three years has liked it 6 months after they drive it off the lot. Give it 6 years, then ask them how they like it... I've got two Roundhouse locos, one considerably ancient and on its second set of valve gear. Runs beautifully. The other about 7 years old, and still runs like a top. My Ruby ran beautifully the day I got her, and still performs quite admirably after a bit over 3 years. She's not quite as controlable at slow speeds as the Roundhouse, but her cylinders are quite a bit smaller, also. (My older RH has smaller cylinders than the other, and is likewise a touch finickier at slow speeds, albeit better than the Ruby.) What I don't know is how long the valve gear on the Ruby will hold up before it needs replacing, how easy that would be to do, or even if one can easily get the parts. (Accucraft lists them on the website, but I've no firsthand experience of ordering, nor have I seen them at dealers' tables at steam-ups as one can find RH parts.) I will say this - Accucraft seems to be holding its own right now, and I can only hope that when I run the wheels off of my Ruby, I can fix it as easily as I can the RH locos. They're coming out with products that people want, at a very reasonable price. Certainly they're in a good position to garner short term support and loyalty. Here's hoping they can keep it. (and come out with a live steam East Broad Top mikado!!!) Later, K
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
Of course Tag is right about the RH's dropping oil between the rails. The first day I ran my SR#24 I found myself being concerned that the lubricator wasn't working correctly. When I checked the reservoir it was going down and the engine was working well. It wasn't until I took it off the track to put it away that I saw where the oil was going. Another point to consider is price. Is it fair to consider a RH SR#24 in the same way that you would a Ruby? Of course not. And the Accucraft Shay comes with it's own carry box as well as carrying a price tag that can't be touched by anyone else. Now if they only would produce an American style road engine in 1/32. Of course I've wished for that from Roundhouse too. Phil On 11/11/02 5:31, Phil Paskos [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: O.K. I'll bite on this one too. I've never seen any Roundhouse that spewed oil all over the track. Also, the expression runs like a Roundhouse is a compliment on their design and quality control that they deserve. Phil Hmmm. Mine do. As do any other make of locomotive once fitted with my chuff pipe. In fact the steam oil has to go somewhere and I prefer it to drop between the frames rather than out of the stack and all over the locomotive and trainbut then my rails are not electrified for LGB or similar plastic rats (ducks rapidly) :-) -- Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon Office Saltash Cornwall Directors: T. Gorton, Madame E. Lash
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
Sure I can. The Roundhouse Sammie doesn't seem to have the issue I've seen. :) That's RH's lower-end loco. So far I haven't seen anything different in any of the Accucraft offerings in the say of piston-rod seals than what the Ruby has. Does the superior offer something other than a metal-on-metal fit? Someone asked for a comparison of Accu and RH, I provided my experiences. :) I have no way of repairing the seals when my Ruby rubs it's 'glands' oval, the piston, rod, and back plate must be changed out. The RH offerings have a replaceable O-ring. Trot, the opinionated, fox... At 01:32 PM 11/11/02, you wrote: On 11/11/02 18:35, Landon Solomon [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'd have to vote for Roundhouse being best. My Ruby leaks like a sieve... but I don't even have my RH engine together yet so I can't say much. ;] Trot, the slowly-planning, fox... Cannot really compare a bottom of the range Ruby with a Roundhouse Trot - Superior shows up well however when compared to a manual Lady Anne. -- Yours Aye Tag Gorton /\_/\ TrotFox \ Always remember, ( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon\ There is a \_/ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
Thanks to Trot the opinionated, I now know RH manufactures models made for continued operation, while Accucraft manufactures a working model, that requires higher repair costs to keep the model operational as wear exacts it's inevitable toll.
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
Just to add to that, Accucraft has already replaced one set of pistons for
free. I don't know what the future will hold in that regard, but I can't
imagine them doing it forever. ;]
Trot, the fox with another leak... somewhere... {:(
At 08:21 PM 11/11/02, you wrote:
Thanks to Trot the opinionated, I now know RH manufactures models made for
continued operation, while Accucraft manufactures a working model, that
requires higher repair costs to keep the model operational as wear exacts
it's inevitable toll.
/\_/\ TrotFox \ Always remember,
( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon\ There is a
\_/ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft vs Roundhouse
O.K. I'll bite on this one too. I've never seen any Roundhouse that spewed oil all over the track. Also, the expression runs like a Roundhouse is a compliment on their design and quality control that they deserve. Phil Chuck's My Best we should be arguing that Roundhouse is better than Accucraft OK Chuck, I'll bite. How is Roundhouse better than Accucraft? I was drooling over the new Accucraft Shay. If I am better off saving a bit more for a Roundhouse #24 or Forney, please wax eloquent and make your response reed with specificity so that I am convinced to save my money for a latter purchase of a Roundhouse. Gary - chilling in Eugene, Oregon
Re: Accucraft
In a message dated Tue, 16 Jul 2002 2:00:29 AM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: He said that they aren't selling the K27 through their usual dealers but only direct from Accucraft or from a few dealers who have live steam loco repair capability. His explanation was that they've got a lot of people bringing locos to Accucraft HQ for repairs. I'm not sure I follow the logic on this. Maybe Accucraft is trying to reduce the markup from wholesale on this loco and so is cutting out the discount dealers. It's much more likely that the dealers don't bring any value-added to sales of live steam engines. Very few can be fixed in the field by the typical electric or discount train dealer - hence the comment about dealers who have repair facilities. Sounds good to me - I'd rather buy from someone who gives good after-sales service! Pete
Re: Accucraft and build-to-order
I talked to Cliff Luscher of Accucraft at the Pleasanton steamup on Saturday. He said that they aren't selling the K27 through their usual dealers but only direct from Accucraft or from a few dealers who have live steam loco repair capability. His explanation was that they've got a lot of people bringing locos to Accucraft HQ for repairs. I'm not sure I follow the logic on this. Maybe Accucraft is trying to reduce the markup from wholesale on this loco and so is cutting out the discount dealers. Cliff also said that they will eventually be building a live steam Daylight and that they had a running chassis in China but that production was a year off. == Phil Paskos wrote: Or how about? Yes we are going to build the Live steam Daylight or No we aren't going to build it. Roy Ganderson just took delivery of the new shay. It comes with its own metal carrying case and ran very well right out of the box, BUT the boiler is too small to accomidate the fuel tank. Yes he ran the boiler dry before the fuel ran out. He's looking to add a goodal valve. Phil Odd ... I went to the Accucraft site looking for pricing and reservation information on the live steam K-27. Nothing. On the other hand, they have all four models of the live steam C-16 listed as in stock -- I thought I remembered seeing those listed as build to order only a short while back?! -vance- There are two ways to make a person homeless -- destroy his home or make his home look like everyone else's.
RE: Accucraft
Interesting! I point blank asked Accucraft (in an email) if there was even going to be a Daylight in live steam. The representative wrote me back and said in very distinct, bold print.NO! What gives, the employees don't know what's going on That was a month ago! Chuck Walters Twin Lakes Railway CEO http://home.twcny.rr.com/twinlakesrw -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Jeffrey Williams Sent: Monday, April 01, 2002 10:12 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft I was at Accucraft HQ this afternoon to get some gaskets and asked Bing about the Shay release and the SP Daylight in live steam. Bing said that the first 5 production Shays were in the next container - one to two weeks. He said that they have a back order for over 500 units, so it will take a while for them to clear that demand. He also said that the live steam SP Daylight delivery is a year and a half from now.
Re: Accucraft
They've got a lot of projects in work ahead of the Daylight - a lot can change in a year and a half! The Daylight will likely be a very low volume product compared to the Shay and Ruby and thus have limited profit potential - that probably effects the amount of energy they put into it. = Chuck Walters wrote: Interesting! I point blank asked Accucraft (in an email) if there was even going to be a Daylight in live steam. The representative wrote me back and said in very distinct, bold print.NO! What gives, the employees don't know what's going on That was a month ago! Chuck Walters Twin Lakes Railway CEO http://home.twcny.rr.com/twinlakesrw -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Jeffrey Williams Sent: Monday, April 01, 2002 10:12 PM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Accucraft I was at Accucraft HQ this afternoon to get some gaskets and asked Bing about the Shay release and the SP Daylight in live steam. Bing said that the first 5 production Shays were in the next container - one to two weeks. He said that they have a back order for over 500 units, so it will take a while for them to clear that demand. He also said that the live steam SP Daylight delivery is a year and a half from now.
Re: Accucraft
I was just there on Friday to pick up a Ruby 2 for a friend. Cliff mentioned that there was a chance that there would be as many as 25 of them (Shays) in a container coming in May. I also inquired about other future offerings and he confirmed the announcement about the K-27 and the C-21, though these offerings are years out from now. He also mentioned that they were contemplating offering a larger three cylinder, three truck Shay most likely to be based on one of West Sides. I continued trying to convince them to offer a live steam Heisler. No plans for that yet though (rats!!) Eric Maschwitz www.grabiron.com From: Jeffrey Williams [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 01 Apr 2002 19:11:30 -0800 To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Accucraft I was at Accucraft HQ this afternoon to get some gaskets and asked Bing about the Shay release and the SP Daylight in live steam. Bing said that the first 5 production Shays were in the next container - one to two weeks. He said that they have a back order for over 500 units, so it will take a while for them to clear that demand. He also said that the live steam SP Daylight delivery is a year and a half from now.
Re: Accucraft C-16 excessive steam oil usage
Could someone in the know inform the Diamondhead Chief Enforcer about this so we don't spend the weekend wondering where the traction went. Mike Eorgoff near Chicago - Original Message - From: Clark Lord [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, December 18, 2001 11:58 AM Subject: Accucraft C-16 excessive steam oil usage Howdy all. A short background. Here at the house we have now had three different Accucraft C-16's operated. The first was from Seattle during my annual steamup. Much to my and the owners surprise and consternation, the engine was leaking steam oil out the piston rod packing glan so bad that in one lap the steam oil tank was emptied and the contents wound up on railhead of my outside track loop. The car wheels then spread the oil out evenly. It was so bad that any engine that ran the rest of the weekend slipped it's drivers with ease. Well time and weather cleaned the track and all was well. Enter the second and third C-16's purchased by local Las Vegas Live Steamers. Both of those engines had their first run on my track. Again oil was coming out in gross quantities. On these engines the excess oil was winding up in the smoke box, draining out the hole in the bottom, dripping on the pilot truck pivot arm, working it's way back to the pivot pin, traveling across the front brake stiffening rod and onto the brake shoes and then directly onto the rail head. If you wanted to make an oil to track delivery system this was the very best. In one lap around the track you could coat the entire track with an even film of steam oil. If we are having this problem here with 3 different C16's I'm sure that there are many more out there doing the very same thing. Lou Banning, owner of the #2 C-16 to run here, and I have been studying on this problem and yesterday we found a partial fix. Lou removed the stretcher rod that goes between the front brake shoes leaving the brake hanger just dangling. We then ran the engine for 1 and 1/2 hours (3 different runs) on the Las Vegas Garden Railway Society's modular railroad Christmas time setup in the Sprint Telephone Co. main office lobby. All the oil was now being deposited in the center line of the track instead on the rail. We were very pleased with this development as both steam and electric trains are run on the modules. We didn't have to clean 200 feet of track after every run now. The bad news is the engine is still using excessive steam oil. My guess is that the pickup tube in the running board oil tank reservoir is placed too low in the tank which allows straight steam oil to be discharged into the dead leg connecting line until the oil level is even with the outlet tube. At this time it begins to regulate normally. I suspect that when the regulation point is reached, most of the oil has already been discharged into the connecting line, gone through the cylinders, collected on the inside of the smoke box and drained out and onto the track via the route described above. So remove the stretcher rod between the front brake shoes and the rail oiling problem will go away. If you want the brake shoes to show, just put a nut on the back and attach the shoe to the hanger without the rod. Now to figure out what to do about the excessive oil usage. Also be warned that any C-16 that intends to run on my track will have to have the stretcher rod removed before running here. A clean track is a happy track. Best Wishes for the Holidays Ya'll Clark
Re: Accucraft C-16 excessive steam oil usage
Make sure those boys go last on the weight pulling contest! Jim
Re: Accucraft C-16 excessive steam oil usage
I'm sure I'm oversimplifying the problem. But I'd look for a way to put a restricter plug or tube in line to slow down the oil distribution. Respectfully; Phil.P. (much snipped) Now to figure out what to do about the excessive oil usage. Also be warned that any C-16 that intends to run on my track will have to have the stretcher rod removed before running here. A clean track is a happy track. Best Wishes for the Holidays Ya'll Clark
Re: Accucraft Dealers
I bought mine from St Aubin Station, altough I picked it up at the Accucraft office in California (near where I live). St Aubin's web site is www.lgbpola.com. Since there's a limited production rate, the dealers apparently have delivery slots reserved in various scheduled shipments from China so if a dealer's current slot is already been reserved for another customer, you may have to wait for the next container to come in. I waited about 6 weeks. Jeff Williams === Charles W. Walters wrote: How about some names and phone (or web) info of some dealers who carry Accucraft live steamers (C-16's). Thanks in advance folks! Chuck Charles W. Walters, CEO Twin Lakes Railway .-. ] [.-. _ .-. . | .--` (:--:--:--:--:--:--:-| [___.. | : : : : : : : [_9_] |'='|.-Twin Lakes-.| /|.|___|'-._.-.___.-._.'| / ||_.--._.--..--._ |---\'-\-/=\-.-/=\-/'/ /__;^=(==)=(==)(==)=^~^^^ ^^^(-)^(-)^(-)^^ ~~~^~~~^~~~^~~~^^~~~^~~~^~~~^~~~^~^^~~~^~~~
Re: Accucraft Dealers
Chuck, one is Bob Pennock in Spencer Ohio under name of Cross Creek Engineering. [EMAIL PROTECTED]/ Jim Burns Charles W. Walters wrote: How about some names and phone (or web) info of some dealers who carry Accucraft live steamers (C-16's). Thanks in advance folks! Chuck Charles W. Walters, CEO Twin Lakes Railway .-. ] [.-. _ .-. . | .--` (:--:--:--:--:--:--:-| [___.. | : : : : : : : [_9_] |'='|.-Twin Lakes-.| /|.|___|'-._.-.___.-._.'| / ||_.--._.--..--._ |---\'-\-/=\-.-/=\-/'/ /__;^=(==)=(==)(==)=^~^^^ ^^^(-)^(-)^(-)^^ ~~~^~~~^~~~^~~~^^~~~^~~~^~~~^~~~^~^^~~~^~~~
(Fwd) Re: Accucraft Superior
Here are the answers to some of the questions we've had about the Superior. -vance- --- Forwarded message follows --- From: Garden Railway Specialists [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Vance Bass [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject:Re: Accucraft Superior Date sent: Tue, 23 Oct 2001 14:44:08 +0100 Dear Sir The Superior 0-6-2 is at present running on the whipsnade zoo railway, along with Excelsior Dual gauge 32/45mm 16mm Scale Manual controls Internally gas fired Insulated wheels Water lever check valve Lever reverse from cab Under floor lubrication drain Suitable for radio control Available in GWR green or LMS Crimson lake Estimated price £725.00 Your more then welcome to back order one now! Best Regards GRS I'm very interested in knowing more about the Accucraft Superior shown in your catalogue. Especially, when will this loco be available, will it be in regular production or is it a special batch, etc.? Thanks very much for your reply! regards, Vance Bass Small-Scale Live Steam Resources http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass/ --- End of forwarded message ---
Re: Accucraft 0-6-2
Hello Tag, Yep, I'd fancy a look myself! Thanks in advance. Later, Trent Tag Gorton wrote: I have a pic of it in the brass if anyone fancies a look
Re: Accucraft 0-6-2
Hello Everyone, I'll be the first to ask. Has anyone seen any projected prices for the Superior? Will it be available in the U.S.? I'm not sure why I'm asking since I won't be able to buy anything for a while (a LONG while), but it's always an interest to see the price trends and what effect various locomotives have on other producers. Later, Trent
Re: Accucraft 0-6-2
On Monday, October 22, 2001, at 03:14 am, Trent Dowler wrote: Hello Everyone, I'll be the first to ask. Has anyone seen any projected prices for the Superior? Will it be available in the U.S.? I'm not sure why I'm asking since I won't be able to buy anything for a while (a LONG while), but it's always an interest to see the price trends and what effect various locomotives have on other producers. Later, Trent somewhere between 700 and 750 ukp but prob cheaper in the US. Available in red, green, black. Supplied as manual but fitted for but not with single channel r/c for speed and direction. prob will be dealer fitted options but is easy to do because it is designed for either. performance is much the same as for any large Pearse locomotive Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon office Cornwall ICQ 135971280
Re: Accucraft 0-6-2
On Saturday, October 20, 2001, at 08:14 pm, VR Bass wrote: Hey, all, here's a bit of news. Garden Railway Supply in the UK shows an unpainted brass Accucraft 0-6-2T in their catalogue. It's called Superior, based on an engine preserved at the Whipsnade Zoo. The picture's a bit grainy, but it appears to be an outside-frame engine with Ruby cylinders and smokebox. There's something that could be bashed into some interesting variations! Not Ruby cylinders Vance!! These are larger Pearse type cylinders making it a much more powerful locomotive than Ruby. I have a pic of it in the brass if anyone fancies a look Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon office Cornwall ICQ 135971280
Re: Accucraft Excelsior R/C
On Wednesday, October 3, 2001, at 05:17 pm, Ciambrone, Steve @ OS wrote: Has anyone installed R/C into an Excelsior yet? The rear bunker is fitted with a R/C switch cutout as supplied and I have some ideas of what to do but would like to see how someone has attacked the same problem. I am only interested in controlling the throttle at this point. begin 600 winmail.dat M)\^(C80`0:0``$```!``$``00!@`(Y`0```#H``$(@`` M$E032Y-:6-R;W-O9G0@36%I;Y.;W1E`#$(`06``P`.T0*``,` M0`1`#4``P`W`0$@@`,`#@```-$'@`#``D`$0`U``,`-P$!8`!`$X Dunno what the hash is Steve but Excelsior is controlled with a single servo for speed AND direction, the original 'throttle being used as just a 'steam stop valve'. It works in the same way as single channel Pearse locos and the reversing piston valve below the smoke box is actually a reverser regulator. You need to remove the reversing gate, fit a servo in the sidetank and make up a linkage using partly the reversing linkage already in place Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon office Cornwall
RE: Accucraft Excelsior R/C
Thanks, a completely different approach. I will examine that concept tonight. You called it a steam stop valve which might explain how sensitive it was to just the slightest change. Sincerely Steve Ciambrone Sr. Test Engineer L-3 Ocean Systems Dunno what the hash is Steve but Excelsior is controlled with a single servo for speed AND direction, the original 'throttle being used as just a 'steam stop valve'. It works in the same way as single channel Pearse locos and the reversing piston valve below the smoke box is actually a reverser regulator. You need to remove the reversing gate, fit a servo in the sidetank and make up a linkage using partly the reversing linkage already in place Yours Aye Tag Gorton Longlands Western Railway Trematon office Cornwall
Re: Accucraft C-16 notes
Vance, You wrote: -- the safety is completely inaccessible as far as I can tell! This is not a good thing, since you can't check your safety when you're raising steam. I was alarmed to see that mine finally blew at 70 psig, though the manual says it's set for 55 psi and that I should keep my hands off it. Well, I have to, but I don't like it. I'm a bit concerned by a loco with a safety that can't be tested and may be set 20% off target, and a clock that may be 20% off. My steam dome was very tight, screwed off like the sand dome. I have a 3x5x1/8 sheet of Viton that I used to get a no mar grip. The pop is down in a sockit, could not get to it to adjust. The cap comes off the pop, but will need a 'tool' to remove to adjust. BTW, mine blew at 65 psig. This is NOT an optional tool -- you MUST have one or you can't get any oil into the @!#% tiny filler tube. Steam oil is so thick that the first drop hits the neck and the surface tension keeps it there longer than the half-life of Strontium 90. Meanwhile, the little syringe they give you to suck water out of the lubricator is totally useless, since you can only get it about 2mm into the neck. This syringe is for filling only, put it into the tank and wipe off after filling. I have a 'LUER-LOCK' needle that I put on it to suck out the water. It's about 1/16. The tank holds about 20cc of oil. Bob mentioned a loose exhaust tube. Mine was loose, too, but I was able to tighten it from the top of the smokebox, since the top is flattened. I would like to hear your reaction to the chuff with and without the resonator tube. The smokebox arrangement on this engine seems very effective, acoustically, so I think it possible that a secondary tube might actually diminish the chuff. Try it both ways, and let us know, please. This smokebox is fully insulated, even the door. My tube is installed into the bottom as best I could. This maybe causing the burner roughness, might need to enlarge the birds mouth for more flow. when the door is open it's not so bad. Last night after the sunset I was able to make the flame shoot out the door three inches. Must be careful not to set the gas too high. When the replacement tube arrives I will do some more testing. Another thing to look out for is the sander pipes. One of mine was so long that I think it must have been dragging the track. I was blaming the derailments at track joints (esp. when backing) on the hasty tracklaying and the lack of leading wheels in reverse, but it didn't make sense to me that the lead truck would have much effect, since it just swings loose on its pivot. After putting it up on blocks again, I noticed the absurdly long sander pipe, and cut it off. Haven't tried running it again on the track to see if that cleared up the derailment problem, but it would certainly have caused trouble at some point. It would be a good thing to devise a centering mechanism for the lead truck so that it actually did some leading, rather than simply dangling in the breeze. My lead truck was picking one frog, going to go over that one with a Dremmel. A stiffer spring pressing the truck down might also help. It will be Sunday before I get to run next. Will start out on blocks this time. Since I'm running on my workbench, I put a piece of thin cotton cloth over the stack to keep the oil from getting all over my other projects. This produced a much more visible steam plume, even through the cloth! I am going to experiment some with a turbulator for the spark arrestor in an effort to replicate this effect. While running I stopped her several times and restarted. When she started the first few chuff's were very pronounced and the steam was blown three feet in the air. VERY COOL!!! Bob Wescott _ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp
Re: Accucraft C-16
Vance, Eric and others, Regarding the slip of drivers on code 215 NS rail or any other material or size rail: The main problem, when there is one , is the material of the driver or tire. Stainless steel drivers seem to slip more than others. My Pannier 0-6-0 with such drivers would slip easier than my Steamlines 0-6-0 with cast iron drivers. Some folks say aluminum rail is worse. Seems to depend on how much oil is on the rail. Some rail has a flat top resulting is less of a contact patch than others. Other rails have a radius on the top, as do prototype rails, resulting in a larger contact patch which should improve traction. Regarding RC. I took out the standard RC in my Fowler some years ago do to the throttle wag from glitching. It worked much better with manual control. I finally had a chance to try the RCS system when I installed one in a friend's Daylight. I was quite impressed. The system works really well with zero glitching. It only speaks when spoken to. The programmable limits on both throttle and reverser are a bonus. For the antenna I screwed the shortened wire to the aluminum coach body where the Receiver and battery are located. The coach is insulated from the track by delrin ( plastic) side frames. I tried other antenna arrangements but this seemed best. I was so impressed I bought another and will install it in my Fowler. Although I do prefer hands on it is a bit of fun to have RC in at least 1 loco. GaryB
RE: Accucraft Excelsior
Bought an Excelsior today.
It has some differences over the Ruby. The Excelsior has a water drain on
the displacement lubricator, water fill is in the cab, water overflow valve
for boiler water level, knob on the throttle, small lever on the burner
control and a R/C switch
cutout in the rear tank.
The cab roof slides off instead of the Ruby with the whole cab removable.
Sincerely
Steve Ciambrone
Sr. Test Engineer
L-3 Ocean Systems
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Re: Accucraft Excelsior
At 03:01 PM 26/06/01 -0700, Steve Ciambrone wrote: Has anyone run the Accucraft Excelsior yet. Comments? Similar to the Ruby/Ida? Lots of comments on the 16mm list, it's been out for several months in the UK. Main complaints concern a loud burner, and somewhat anemic steaming performance until broken in. Ian pearse, the designer, has been providing free replacement burners to those who got locos from the first lot imported. Later engines are reputed to have the howling burner syndrome fixed. People who have run-in the loco for a decent period of time (8-10 hours), report themselves pleased with it. regards, pf
RE: AccuCraft C-16
Okay, Vance, and list, here is my report/opinions of my new C-16: Some background: Almost year and a half a go I first talked to Charlie and Bing at Accucraft to confirm the rumors that they were indeed considering producing a live steam version of their electric #42, 2-8-0, C16 Consolidation. Most of you have seen/heard of the Bumble Bee version of the C-16, the #42 is an old timer version with a gray boiler and maroon cab, the #278 is a black, coal burner version. All three models utilize the same boiler and running gear in the live steam versions. I talked to Accucraft on a monthly, and then weekly basis to keep up to date on the progress of the project. About a year ago I placed a formal order with one of Accucraft's dealers, Bob Pennock, the owner of Cross Creek Engineering. About six months ago, Charlie told me that the engines were finally in production starting with the Bumble Bee, then the #278 (Black), and finally the last engines to be produced would be the #42s. I guess Charlie was getting tired of me calling him :-) so about three months ago, he promised to me the first of the #42s produced (via Cross Creek). Ten days ago, my new engine arrived and I have run it on a daily basis since. I can not say enough about this engine... I will sum it up by saying it was definitely worth the wait! The engine performs smoothly, in both directions, can be throttled down to a crawl, or up to un prototypical speeds, and the power has to be felt to be believed! This definitely is no Ruby with respect to design, build, and performance. I don't own an Aster, but of course I have seen the quality and performance of those models at steamups. You cannot compare this engine to an Aster in detail, but I think you can in performance and build quality. And, other than one little tweak (described below), I haven't had to do anything to this engine to get it to perform flawlessly. The more I run it, and continue the break-in process, the better it runs. I have not gotten a run of less than an hour yet, and yesterday, (90 degrees), pulling six large LGB passenger cars, I had a measured run of almost 90 minutes (light off, to out of fuel). The fit and finish of the model is spectacular. This includes the tender. Being the #42, it is not as decked out with details as the Bumble Bee, but hey, that is why it is cheaper than the Bumble Bee, and now I can customize the engine to my tastes. The only issue I had with the engine, was it would develop a slight knock once it had been running for a half hour or so. After comparing notes with the only other guy in the country to yet receive his #42 (Tom Burns), we determined that the knock was coming from one of the main connecting rods barely hitting a crosshead brace, This only happened after these pieces heated up, and only in forward motion. Careful application of a jewelers file on the crosshead brace to remove a couple of thousandths of stainless steel and my knock was gone! I had talked to Accucraft before I discovered the cause of the knock, and I have to say they were extremely responsive and helpful. I don't think you will be able to find one of these models at $1500. They probably will be selling for closer to $2000. I got mine at the pre-production price because I ordered it so long ago. If anyone is interested, Bob Pennock at Cross Creek has a Bumble Bee in stock. The customer who ordered it backed out of the deal at the last minute. Bob is a great guy to deal with and his prices are competitive. In closing, I highly recommend this model. I believe it is a great value for the $ and it will not disappoint even the Aster owners among us. :-) -Original Message- From: VR Bass [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] Sent: Saturday, June 16, 2001 11:17 AM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: Re: AccuCraft C-16 Has anyone seen one of these in action? Are they just a Ruby with an extended boiler and an extra set of drivers, or are they closer to an Aster in Quality/Functionality? They are definitely not just a Ruby with more wheels. They're the same finescale models sold as electrics, but with a live steam running gear. I saw the prototype run at a steamup a couple of years ago, and as the current crop gets into buyers' hands the reports are coming in favorable. I just got a note from Royce Brademan (where are you, guy?), who received his last week, and he was floating on a cloud. Run time of about an hour with excellent running and pulling characteristics. I just got my Yearly Bonus, plus I have a few other dollars coming and would like a good quality Live Steamer. (Under $1.5K) I enjoy my Ruby, but I want something that will run for an extended amount of time. I don't think $1.5 will get you a C-16. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: AccuCraft C-16
I think Aster had better start keeping a very sharp eye on Accucraft. Everytime Aster announces a new engine with the prices going so high, More and more people will go Accucraft. And with reports like this, Accucraft may already be winning the war. And we are the winners! Phil.P. Reading,PA. Subject: RE: AccuCraft C-16 Okay, Vance, and list, here is my report/opinions of my new C-16: Some background: Almost year and a half a go I first talked to Charlie and Bing at Accucraft to confirm the rumors that they were indeed considering producing a live steam version of their electric #42, 2-8-0, C16 (Much snipped)
RE: AccuCraft C-16
I finally got to see one run! I was also involved in the diagnosis of why
it couldn't push itself up a grade. :]
This was a beutiful bumble-bee model and was happily prancing around the
track untill it got to the uphill part of the track. Here it continued to
prance at really close to the same speed but didn't have much forward
movement to show for it. Turned out the pilot trucks bearings were
falling out of their mountings and allowing the pilot wheel to bind up
against the truck's framework.
The engine was plenty strong though! I only saw the drivers slow down
once when the engine started to get some better tracktion on a slight
verticle kink in the track.
Looked like a manufacturing problem, but don't quote me on that. The
pilot trucks fake spring-hangers were about 2mm too narrow to hold the
bearings in the proper orientation. The bearings were designed to ride
loose in the slots, but these were falling out.
Good thing there were plenty of Asters and Ruby's to continue the runs!
;]
Oh, on another note... The valve gear would be better refered to as a
simplified Walchearts than simplifies Stephensons. It uses a pivoting
link and radius rod to adjust forward/reverse. It does apear that there
would be room for a full Stephensons gear in there though (no, I didn't
measure anything.) {:]
Trot, the fox who had a truly enjoyable day yesterday (even without my own
engine!)
/\_/\TrotFox\ Always remember,
( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon \ There is a
\./ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: AccuCraft C-16
Chris: While the prototypes did utilize the same cylinders as the Ruby, Charlie told me that the production models would have a longer-bore cylinder. Since I have only seen pre-production models run, I can't verify this. Of the the three pre-production models I've seen run, none have run less than an hour per fuel/water stop, and I have seen some of them run virtually all day. Harlan Barr got the first one off the production line earlier this year and after a lot of frustration, Charlie took it back and gave him a later model, which apparently works fine. I think that the pre-production price was about $1900 and that the current prices are between $2100 and $2500, depending upon livery. \dmc At 8:36 AM -0500 6/16/01, Chris Wolcott wrote: Has anyone seen one of these in action? Are they just a Ruby with an extended boiler and an extra set of drivers, or are they closer to an Aster in Quality/Functionality? I just got my Yearly Bonus, plus I have a few other dollars coming and would like a good quality Live Steamer. (Under $1.5K) I enjoy my Ruby, but I want something that will run for an extended amount of time. -- ^^^ Dave Cole Gen'l Sup't: Grand Teton Everglades Steam Excursion Co. Pacifica, Calif. USA http://45mm.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List Mom: sslivesteam, the list of small-scale live steamers mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Editor: TRELLIS TRESTLE, the newsletter of the Bay Area Garden Railway Society http://www.bagrs.org/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Webconductor: Pacific Coast Live Steamers http://p-c-l-s.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ^^^
Re: AccuCraft C-16
Charlie and Bing ran the C-16 on my portable track at the QM last weekend, all weekend. It is a fantastic runner and a really pretty loco. As far as performance? Really quite spectacular! After the daylight ran with it's 19 cars, they hooked up the C-16 to the consist and it pulled it with ease. Not very prototypical but one heck of a performance. I would say that it performed quite flawlessly and ran for at least an hour each time. Bob
RE: AccuCraft C-16
Interesting question Chris! While I have not seen one of the C-16's in person, reports state that they are somewhere between the Ruby and say perhaps an Aster. Hard to make that comparison in my mind though, as I feel there is a great difference between Meth fired locos and gas fired ones. In the 1.5k range there are several Roundhouse engines that would fit the bill, although English in appearance. Superior quality and long run times. Geoffbuilt engines are in the 1.5k range, great engines, great run times. Cheddar has a good loco in this range too! Early reports are positive. Have heard the C's are now running in the 2.2k range by the way! Best of luck! Chuck Walters - President Central New York Large Scale Railway Society http://home.twcny.rr.com/cnylsrs Ten-foot modelers rule -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]On Behalf Of Chris Wolcott Sent: Saturday, June 16, 2001 9:36 AM To: Multiple recipients of sslivesteam Subject: AccuCraft C-16 Has anyone seen one of these in action? Are they just a Ruby with an extended boiler and an extra set of drivers, or are they closer to an Aster in Quality/Functionality? I just got my Yearly Bonus, plus I have a few other dollars coming and would like a good quality Live Steamer. (Under $1.5K) I enjoy my Ruby, but I want something that will run for an extended amount of time.
Re: AccuCraft C-16
Has anyone seen one of these in action? Are they just a Ruby with an extended boiler and an extra set of drivers, or are they closer to an Aster in Quality/Functionality? They are definitely not just a Ruby with more wheels. They're the same finescale models sold as electrics, but with a live steam running gear. I saw the prototype run at a steamup a couple of years ago, and as the current crop gets into buyers' hands the reports are coming in favorable. I just got a note from Royce Brademan (where are you, guy?), who received his last week, and he was floating on a cloud. Run time of about an hour with excellent running and pulling characteristics. I just got my Yearly Bonus, plus I have a few other dollars coming and would like a good quality Live Steamer. (Under $1.5K) I enjoy my Ruby, but I want something that will run for an extended amount of time. I don't think $1.5 will get you a C-16. regards, -vance- Vance Bass Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA Small-scale live steam resources: http://www.nmia.com/~vrbass
Re: AccuCraft C-16
In a message dated 6/16/01 8:18:36 AM Pacific Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I don't think $1.5 will get you a C-16 I was quoted $2.3-$2.5 with the Bumble Bee being the more costly. Personally liked the cheaper one the best. Bob
Re: accucraft shay under steam ...
Hi there Trent. I remember you as well. The name of the single malt scotch is Glen Livett. You had the 12 yr old...the 18 yr old is even better. I had such a good time at DH. I am already registered for the next one, and have my room. Malone and I still laugh about that. Truth is we have been playing jokes on each other for about 30 yrs now. Jess
Re: accucraft shay under steam ...
Hey Jesse, I remember you well. One of my more favorite memories of this past DH meet was when you had the Bud Girls tell Malone that they thought that he was gay. His reaction could not be put into words. grin The Climax races was a lot of fun. I just have to figure out how to stay up all night Saturday night and still be able to drive home (6-7 hours) the next morning. You know, I can't for the life of me remember the name of the single malt that you were kind enough to let me repeatedly sample. Please jog my memory. Later, Trent
Re: accucraft shay under steam ...
Hey Jesse, Gears Rule? Sounds like you run around with that Malone character! grin Later, Trent (the Paragould guy from the Diamondhead steamup) Jesse Grimmer wrote: Gears rule!
Re: accucraft shay under steam ...
Hey there Trent, If I tell you that I have known that Malone guy for about 30 years, would you think less of me. I was there with Carl at my first DH in Jan. I was the fat guy hanging around after hours racing Climaxes.
RE: accucraft shay under steam ...
At 5:50 PM -0700 5/7/01, Shyvers, Steve wrote: Can you explain the purposes of the upper and lower tanks on the afterdeck? The upper tank appears to have a lever on it. There is a silicon tube comming from somewhere near the interface between the two tanks. Does this tube carry water for the boiler or alcohol for the burner? Both the upper tank and the lower tank have small hatches on them, which are operational. The upper tank's hatch opens to reveal the butane intake valve (alcohol? what's alcohol?). The butane tank is actually down at the bottom of the afterdeck, with a long tube that runs from the intake valve down. The lower tank's hatch opens to reveal a water tank, used to keep the butane tank warm. But, because the butane tank is so small and so far down, the Accucraft people thought there would be plenty of room in there for, oh, I don't know ... maybe a radio receiver? The lever above the silicon tube controls the gas pressure to the burner; the silicon tube below it carries the gas to the burner. The more ambitious among us might want to use the bunkers on the afterdeck to allow for more gas and distilled water (utilizing an axle pump?), thereby increasing the run time. \dmc -- ^^^ Dave Cole Gen'l Sup't: Grand Teton Everglades Steam Excursion Co. Pacifica, Calif. USA http://45mm.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List Mom: sslivesteam, the list of small-scale live steamers mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Editor: TRELLIS TRESTLE, the newsletter of the Bay Area Garden Railway Society http://www.bagrs.org/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Webconductor: Pacific Coast Live Steamers http://p-c-l-s.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ^^^
RE: accucraft shay under steam ...
Dave, Thank you for the detail. Silicon tubing is probably adequate for the butane supply to the burner in this application, but how is the tubing secured at each end? Are there hose barbs and clamps? Steve
RE: accucraft shay under steam ...
At 8:14 AM -0700 5/8/01, Shyvers, Steve wrote: Thank you for the detail. Silicon tubing is probably adequate for the butane supply to the burner in this application, but how is the tubing secured at each end? Are there hose barbs and clamps? I don't believe this pre-production model had clamps, but the C16 has a metal-sheathed silicon tube with clamps on each end; I would suppose that the production model Shay will have a similar arrangement. \dmc -- ^^^ Dave Cole Gen'l Sup't: Grand Teton Everglades Steam Excursion Co. Pacifica, Calif. USA http://45mm.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List Mom: sslivesteam, the list of small-scale live steamers mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Editor: TRELLIS TRESTLE, the newsletter of the Bay Area Garden Railway Society http://www.bagrs.org/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Webconductor: Pacific Coast Live Steamers http://p-c-l-s.com/ mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] ^^^
RE: accucraft shay under steam ...
My Ruby has the same silicone tubing with barbs and wire 'clamps' at each
end. These are normally used for fuel connections on Nitromethane powered
R/C cars. The stuff is tougher than I would ever have thought it was. :)
Who wants to make bets that the production models will use a copper tube
like the newer Ruby's do? {:)
Trot, the fox who's not really a better... };]
On Tue, 8 May 2001, Shyvers, Steve wrote:
Dave,
Thank you for the detail. Silicon tubing is probably adequate for the butane
supply to the burner in this application, but how is the tubing secured at
each end? Are there hose barbs and clamps?
Steve
/\_/\TrotFox\ Always remember,
( o o ) AKA Landon Solomon \ There is a
\./ [EMAIL PROTECTED] \ third alternative.
Re: Accucraft Shay Dealer?
Mike where are you located? Talbots in San Mateo CA is considering taking orders. There is also a group from BAGRS that were considering a group buy. All this is in the California Bay Area. mp --- Mike Eorgoff [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Any recommendations on a dealer who would get early delivery of the Shay to pre-order from? Mike Eorgoff __ Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! Auctions - Buy the things you want at great prices. http://auctions.yahoo.com/
