Skipgear is most correct and has a lot more experience and knowledge than I do.

Frankly, I found 15-20 hours enough, for the initial break in period. A lot depends on the individual engine since there is a variation from engine to engine of the same type.

I noticed that you said the engines were new but did not have boxes. How do you know they are new?

Mr. Bachmann:

Will the new Bachmann 2-6-6-2 have trouble going over Atlas or other non-Code 80 turnouts or track?

You may find that the 2-8-0 Spectrum will need more break in time. Also, if you put it away for several months, it will require it all over again. Once broken in or re-broken in, it is a terrific engine and will pull quite a bit.

You can improve the pickup by adding weight to the underside of the tender.

80 will fit even against 40. All you need is a soldering iron, flux and solder.

Flip both pieces upside down. Butt them together. solder the rails from the underside. Let cool. Flip it back over. The rails will have no height difference. If there is a gap upward or downward on one of the pieces, just put some styrene under it to fill any gaps between the bottom of the rail and the layout surface.