ModelRailroadForums.com is a free
Model Railroad Discussion Forum and
photo gallery. We cover all scales and sizes of model railroads. Online since 2002, it's one of the oldest and largest model railroad forums on the web. Whether you're a master model railroader or just getting started, you'll find something of interest here.
I'm puzzled why Iron Horseman had trouble with his MDC 2-8-0.
Mine runs really good with no modification other than adding detail. Perhaps there are different versions of them out there or quality control was haphazard. As I posted earlier, it is a lightweight model with little pulling power. I added a traction tire to one driver on the left side, but not happy with the wobble now. It may also be slightly smaller than a CR prototype.
I have pictures of the Copper Range 2-8-0 at Mid Continent RR Museum, unfortunately it rained like heck the day of our visit so the pictures aren't the best.
The MDC/Athearn Old Time 2-8-0 would be the best bet for that engine. The modern runs have a nice motor and all wheel electrical pick up. They are my go to road engine for my 1900 era P&R layout. I have over a half dozen of them. I find that they will handle about 14-16 cars on level track. about 8 on a 1.5-2% grade. YMMV.
If you were handy, you could add the coal bunker with sheet styrene, move the generator ahead of the smokestack, add a power reverse and the funky handrails on the smokebox and really make it into a "Copper Range" engine.
The museum also has some older Copper range passenger cars :
I have the exact same Ma & Pa Connie, except mine is an Akane..My father surprised me with it in about 1957. Man was I in heaven ! The blind drivers were to me new and unusual which was very exciting, plus I did have 18"r snap-track curves then..Never converted it to DCC.
Gomez Addams
Staff member
If you do get a Roundhouse 2-8-0, get one that's ready to run. While I've put together the occasional MDC steam engine kit, I think for a "beginner" one that's already built would be the better choice.
Thank you all so much for the pictures and input on the 2-8-0. Dennis it is especially nice to see the Roundhouse photo next to the original #29. I think I’m hooked on the roundhouse. I’m only planning on a 4-5 car consist on the layout, but may see a 3% grade In one small spot.
Dave thank you for sharing you Copper Range pictures.
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a commision from some of the links and ads shown on this website
(Learn More Here)
