Spectrum Climax

[trailrider]

Several years ago I bought a Spectrum 3-truck Climax from Bachmann with DCC/Sound. It ran okay for a while, then quit. I sent it back and they repaired it, and it worked okay...for another while, then died again. The sound works fine, and I think I can hear the motor, but it won't move and I suspect a Chinese gear is cracked inside. Bachmann no longer has parts or repairs the I am trying to disassemble the beast, but have so far only been able to remove the coal bunker behind the cab and get the cab loose except for a bell rope or something. Anybody have a clue as to how to get the rest of the boiler off to expose the mechanism?

 

[Railrunner130]

There are parts breakdowns on the Bachmann website.

You might also check out Northwest Shortline. I believe they have a kit for that exact issue. I'd think it would have instructions for installation.

 

[trailrider]

Thanks! Problem still is how to disassemble this thing. I have been removing as many of the small Phillips head screws, but can't figure out how to remove the boiler so I can get to the motor and gearbox. I looked down the smokestack to see if there is a screw in there, as in many models, but there doesn't appear to be a screw. Almost looks like it is riveted. I haven't tried removing the lead truck...yet...to see if there is a screw going upward into the smokebox. I'm almost tempted to weather the beast as a rustbucket and leave it as a retired wreck...which it almost is.

 

[Selector]

Got this exploded diagramme at hoseeker site:

bachmann2truckclimaxdccreadypg2.jpg (1240×1827) (hoseeker.com)

 

[T.C.]

Try this web site and there are others if you do a search, but this will probably help you do what you want?

How to Repair a Bachmann Climax

Bachmann has made several versions of the Climax Locomotive in HO scale and On30. They have made a 50 ton 2 truck version and a 70 ton 3 truck version. While these are well detailed locomotives they all suffer from problems with the drive train. The latest versions of these locomotives use metal...

model-railroad-hobbyist.com

Hope this helps?
T.C.

 

[Sirfoldalot]

WOW - That thing has more parts than a Swiss Watch!
Best of luck with your repair, Trailrider.

 

[wvg_ca]

i have both the two truck version and the three truck one .. both have DCC but only one has sound, can't remember which one offhand .. i have had these about eight years now and so far they haven't had to go back, or even come apart for that matter ..