What is the difference now?

[SteamGene]

I've read about the changes in the old Standard design and looked at the NKP and C&O 2-8-4 and I'm wondering what, exactly, is now the difference between "Standard" and "Spectrum." 
Gene

[cmgn9712]

Gene I was thinking about this last night. I think the perceived difference is mostly fantasy. First, the same item is rarely made in both lines.  I believe thew difference is the price point Bachmann intends to sell the item at. It's like the difference between a Chevy and Cadillac. You think you are getting more, but both will get  you to work on time.  Is the Cadillac better? Maybe. It may look better, will cost you more, and makes you feel better.  Bachmann QC even on Spectrum has always been suspect.  I now think Bachmann takes an elitist attitude with the Spectrum line - you will feel better about spending more money for the more expensive item. On the other hand, with the new Berks, Bachmann is appealing to the masses - everybody can afford one!

[the Bach-man]

Dear Gene,
In this case, the Berkshire has more cast-on detail than a typical Spectrum loco.
Have fun!
the Bach-man

[SteamGene]

Is that true of the Kanawha too? 
Gene

[ebtbob]

Mr. B....

     Besides the amount of cast on detail.....how different is the drive train between the standard and Spectrum steam engines?    Are they all being made with the belt drive now?

Bob

[r.cprmier]

B-Man;
One of the 2-10-2s I bought-which i have just taken out of the box, seems to have a problem: In foward, there is a clicking sound, and the engine does not move, or moves weakly.  I attribute that to a bad gear.  I would like to send it in for repair.  How?
Rich

[Craig]

Mr. B....

     Besides the amount of cast on detail.....how different is the drive train between the standard and Spectrum steam engines?    Are they all being made with the belt drive now?

Bob

I. too, would like to know how the mechanism of this new offering compares to the Spectrum machanism.

[brad]

Rich,

  You have a cracked gear, a CRONIC problem on 2-10-2s I sent mine back for a new one also. Click on the service link @ the bottom of the home page and give service a call. You'll talk to a very nice lady who's name escapes me and she'll give you shipping directions.

brad

PS One of the side gears stripped on my Shay last week, looks like it'll be going in for service too. I thought I got one that had good gears, guess not

[the Bach-man]

Dear All,
The berks have a gear tower and flywheel.
Have fun!
the Bach-man