An N scale K4 in the works

[eric220]

I want to bump this thread because of some conversations that I've had recently on other forums. Bachmann currently has mechanisms that could be used for several PRR locomotives:

• B6 0-6-0
• M1 4-8-2
• H10 2-4-0

Perhaps producing one of those, which would just involve a new shell, would be a good way to test the waters. I'm in for a few of each, in addition to the K4's that I'm looking for.

[ericw95]

I'd love to have some K4s from bachmann spectrum, great looking and im sure great running if theyre a spectrum. Also, who can forget their adaptability to most American railroads?

[David Leonard]

I hope that whoever makes a K4s in N scale makes a modernized version. The K4s's were modernized in the 1930's with stoker equipped tenders, and some were further modernized post WWII with visible changes to the locomotive, especially the front end. The Trix version is of an "as built" K4s, and is good only from the 20's to 30's.

In other words, I'd like to see a K4s with either a 110P75 tender or (preferably) a 130P75 tender. The latter is a bit bigger (which can only be good) and was in use from the 30's to the 50's. The 1361 has such a tender, and Bachmann (or whoever) would be wise to model it.

As far as using the K4s for other roads than the PRR, the model would have to be built with different options for the cab, the smokebox, the firebox, the pilot, etc., so I really don't see that happening. The mechanism would be useful for other more generic boiler shells, and maybe the already manufactured USRA tenders would be appropriate.

[ericw95]

i really cant agree more, a k4 available in a wide array of railroads from spectrum would really be a great product. hopefully we'll hear more in the coming months about a new loco.

[eric220]

Could it be?  Could it be?   

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,16759.msg135259.html#msg135259

I know, I know, I'm getting my hopes up...

[dtpowell]

Could it be?  Could it be?  

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,16759.msg135259.html#msg135259

I know, I know, I'm getting my hopes up...

I don't intend to dash your dreams Eric, but I asked the Bachmann a somewhat similar question last year. Got the same basic response and a 4-6-0 announcement at the convention.... ....(a silent tear falls)....Maybe, just maybe the Bachmann has been hard at work on a "super wonderfulistic" K4 I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed.

[angusw48]

I have just joined this forum and would like to echo everyone's chorus for an N-scale PRR K4. I'd buy at least 4 if they were available, plus a streamlined version if one was made.
I have however just purchased a Kato C55 Japanese loco to try to convert to a K4 with a Minitrix shell, I'll see how it goes!
I have also seen a lovely E6 atlantic made by Hans Starmans from Holland who has also done a nice B6. For videos of these pulling long trains check out:

http://www.youtube.com/user/anguswright48

Incidently Bachmann UK have announced they are doing an LNER A1 in n gauge, a British 4-6-2 for those that don't know. This had 80" drivers like the K4 and it will be interesting to see how big they can get the wheels when taking into account modelling tolerances and the flanges. It will be 1:148 so I wonder what that chassis will look like under a Minitrix shell. Could be an expensive way to get one though!

Angus
Nottingham
England

[eric220]

I don't intend to dash your dreams Eric, but I asked the Bachmann a somewhat similar question last year. Got the same basic response and a 4-6-0 announcement at the convention.... ....(a silent tear falls)....Maybe, just maybe the Bachmann has been hard at work on a "super wonderfulistic" K4 I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed.

Oh, I thoroughly expect to get let down... But then again...

[David Leonard]

80" drivers at 1:148 scale would work out to about 86" drivers in 1:160 scale, so I'm not sure the LNER A1 chassis would work. I'll probably go the Kato C55 route.

[eric220]

This is worth bumping this thread.

http://youtu.be/tvuABS6WWWM

So much for the "a K4 couldn't haul for crap" argument.

[1218classa]

Well it looks like Bachmann is going to finally produce the K4 in N scale! I know I will be in line to pick up several of these in the near future! Can't wait to see them. I hope that many of you that posted on this thread are as eager to get your hands on them as I am.

[eric220]

I'm ready to hand over my money whenever they are available for purchase.

Many thanks Bachmann!

[dtpowell]

Dang Bachmann...I was hoping for a NYC J3a Hudson....Err...well , I have been wanting the K4s for a rather long time too.     Maybe for just 35 years or so. I sure didn't expect it with sound....  Bachmann, this made my day, Thank you!   (J3a Hudson next year?  )

[dtpowell]

Could it be?  Could it be?  

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,16759.msg135259.html#msg135259

I know, I know, I'm getting my hopes up...

I don't intend to dash your dreams Eric, but I asked the Bachmann a somewhat similar question last year. Got the same basic response and a 4-6-0 announcement at the convention.... ....(a silent tear falls)....Maybe, just maybe the Bachmann has been hard at work on a "super wonderfulistic" K4 I'm keeping my fingers and toes crossed.

I forgot I wrote this. Looks as if Bachmann is coming  though with the "Super wonderfulistic" K4s at last.  I am happy.

[simulater3]

I hope the boiler is close to the size of the GHQ shell so that it looks simular to the L1