Hi!
  My HO Spectrum 2-8-0 threw a screw (attaches running gear to 3rd set of drive wheels) and I actually got a replacement two days ago. 

However, when I went to insert the screw I realized that the loco also "threw off" the small spacer.  That part is like a thick, small washer (3mm OD, 2mm ID, 1.5mm thick).  I "gerryrigged" a replacement out of delrin plastic, but I sure would like to get a metal one.  I checked with Micro Fasteners and Osorail (NWSL) and had no luck. 

Can you recommend any other micro fastener suppliers?

Thank you,
Mobilman44 

Hi Once Again!
  Well, the problem is solved (no thanks to Bachmann)!  With the help of a micrometer and the good folks on the Trains Forum, I ordered some M1.4x5x.3 screws from a 3rd party supplier.  Yes, they fit and I'm back in business.

This whole trip left a bad taste in my mouth, however.  I do understand that Bachmann has a "replace whole unit" policy, but for one very small screw, it is absolutely ridiculous!  Given that the 2-8-0 was produced in large quantities, it just underscores the absurdity. 

Also, subsequent emails were obviously ignored (after the initial exchange).  Tell me yes, or tell me no, or tell me to take a trip below, but please do not ignore me!

Lastly, I finally got to the point that all I wanted  from Bachmann was the specs of the screw in question.  Nope, no response whatsoever  was received.

As a retired Business Analyst, I am especially unhappy with the above lapse of good customer relations.  Frankly, these days Companies need all the good relations they can muster.

Folks, all of the above is NOT a criticism of the product itself, for I have benn a Bachmann customer since the 1970s and have never had a real complaint before this. 

Hey, ENJOY!

Mobilman44

Chris,
  Please reread my original posting.  The reason I am bringing my problem here is that the Bachmann Service "group" has apparently ignored my emails (subsequent to the original email exchange).  I'm normally a very patient and understanding man, and I have always felt that Bachmann was "one of the best", so this situation is really not in line.
Mobilman44 

Jim, Thank you!
  The length with head is 6mm, "less head" is 5mm.  I am not very familiar with metric screw designations but this may be a 1.4 x .3 x 5. 

I sure wish someone from Bachmann Parts could tell me exactly the size screw I am needing - even if they will not provide one.

Thank you all,
Mobilman44

Hi again!
Thanks for your advice and it sounds like you "feel my pain"! 

The screw in question is metric and I pulled the one on the other side of the loco to use for my attempts to find another.  Neither I (with 50 years of HO stuff) nor the two local hobby shops can help.  I've even looked for "junkers" on Ebay and elsewhere but no luck so far.   And, I've looked at small parts providers on the net and the screw is just to small to determine exactly what its thread count/pitch is...........

What especially bothers me is that the good folks at Bachmann Service have not gotten back to me nor answered my emails after our first "conversation".   That, and the fact that I have a beautiful new loco on the disabled list is really making me "unhappy" (for want of a better word).

Thank you all,
Mobilman44

My first Bachmann DCC loco, purchased just weeks ago, threw a screw while testing out my trackage on my "under construction" layout.  It is the screw attaching running gear to the third set of drive wheels (one on each side of the loco).  It is approximately 1/4 inch long, and about 1/16th diameter, with a 3/32 head.  It is metric (?), and non metallic.

I have done several searches of the layout and room - even with the nylon sock in the vacuum trick - but to no avail. 

I contacted Bachmann Service and simply wanted a replacement screw, but was told they would send an entire chassis and I could return the old one.  I thought this a waste of time/money for both of us, and asked them to reconsider just sending the screw.  After 4 days and no response after me sending 2 more emails, I am getting pretty frustrated.

I have been an HO model railroader since the early '60s and a Bachmann customer since the mid-'70s.  I currently have 5 fairly new Spectrum locos.  This is my first "parts problem", and frankly I am concerned.

Please, can anybody out there help me?   

Mobilman44