[Richard Johnson]

QUOTE (kiwitrains @ 6 Oct 2008, 06:29) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>The problem is the lighting on the Vitrains 37 is really c*** especially the red, so it would need some modification I would think.

***I'd have to agree with that - the Bachmann 37 is streets ahead in every way, and isn't that much dearer.

The self coloured yellow ends on the vitrains are a big problem for lighting - The plastic colouring density is low so even if you paint the inner body the light bleed into the plastic as the light transits through it is excessive, meaning that you really need to repaint the yellow ends to get a good result.

Richard

 

[Richard Johnson]

*** Forgive the comment, but how can you possibly run them that fast and still worry about realism?

Each to his own of course but the speed comment really surprises me: By my calculations the Bachmann 37 for example is able to easily exceed scale abilities of the prototype, as can all diesels I've ever bothered to check against scale speed. To me, Hornby and Lima tend to be excessively fast in the older "power bogie" chassis, with the newer Hornby centre mount motor chassis consistent with others...

Are you on DC running? - if so and you feel Bachmann is slow, then it sounds like either your wiring is inadequate and you have voltage drop or the controller you use has a low-ish output voltage. If you really want to run faster the answer is dead easy - simply change the controller for one with a slightly higher track voltage, and all your speed problems will disappear. ... all it will take is about 2 volts more at top speed, well within the tolerances of all motor brands.

As to running qualities the Bachmann is by far the best of the 37's - silky smooth.

I must admit I tend to dislike the Vitrains lighting a lot too - it bleeds everywhere in the self coloured plastic and looks most unrealistic unless the loco ends are repained inside and out.

Most loco's have colour issues with their LEDs - This is an ea my business does a lot in and we do a huge amount of lighting improvement for customers using correctly neutral white or for older loco's incandescent tint LEDs... We also make them totally controllable - it makes a huge difference.

regards

Richard