Best operating N gauge steam locos?

[Andrew Hamblyn]

Gidday,

I am forging ahead into the depths of HOn30 and now seek guidance from the wise and learned..

My first question to you all is:

"What manufacturer of N gauge steam locos would be considered to have the best running / smoothest mechanisms??"

I ask this as I am looking for suitable small and mid-sized N gauge steamers to kitbash into HOn30 locos and I want them to be really reliable and smooth operators.


My second question is:

"Is Kato N gauge gear any good?"

I have a friend in Japan who has access to Kato n gauge stuff, and from what I have seen of Kato HO locos they make very nice mechs, but I have no first hand experince with any Kato N gauge gear.

Thanks to all for your time.

Andrew Hamblyn
New Zealand

 

[pcarrell]

Kato makes excellent mechanisms, as does Athern and Atlas. Bachmann's 2-8-0 is one of the best, as is their heavy mountain.

I'm curious though........

Since the drivers on your project would be N scale, why not just buy HOn30 equipment from the start and be done with it? I mean, you get what you want, and it's much easier. Or is it the challenge that you like?