What are people’s opinions on the Bachmann Lil Big Hauler locos? (i.e., durability, reliability, likes/dislikes, shortcomings)

Paging Doctor Vic

I have a few, not as sturdy as the full size stuff, you get what you pay for. I bought a few because they were cute for the kids to play with. Out of production. Parts can be hard or impossible to find I am told.

Would still recommend used LGB or other with more robust drivetrain and replacement parts available.

Greg

Greg Elmassian said:

Out of production. Parts can be hard or impossible to find I am told.

Could you give us list on your website as to what isn’t ?

hi rooster

Greg, when you say not as sturdy, are you referring to the drive train?

Yes, and axle bearing surfaces, and general construction.

The basic issue is you want a new “good” locomotive for 1/2 or 1/3 of the value, the used market will give you a loco for 1/2 or 1/3 or even less new price.

A number of us bought them, but the reason they were cheaper was that they were cheaper (https://www.largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-laughing.gif)

Greg

That, but also the blue saddle tank paint scheme is really growing on me, and I like it when I don’t have to paint things.

I wish I could get my hands on one in person before deciding to buy. (http://www.largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-frown.gif)

Greg, would you say the quality of the lil big hauler is comparable to that of the hartland mack?

I would go with the Mack over any small Bachmann loco. And you can get parts for the Mack.

Better yet is the LGB stainz and 2015/2017 locos and with a powered tender you get great pulling power!!

Ditto what Dan said.

If you go to the Bachmann site, you can get the exploded parts diagram: https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/dwg/dwgs/LBH_0-4-0_Locomotive.pdf

But if you go to the parts department, you can could only buy the entire chassis for about $50 or the loco or tender shells. The Loco shell is $15.80.

The loco chassis is sold out, so you have no repair parts available.

If you like the looks, perhaps buy the loco shell and try to adapt to another chassis.

But, you have asked for new, off the shelf locos, not parts several times, so from your original question, it seems this is not a good choice.

Greg

Thanks all for your opinions. I’ve decided that buying a low cost loco is not in my best interest at the moment.