UP 2-6-2

[jscola30]

Hi all, I recently purchased a used (probably older) UP 2-6-2 at a train show. I test ran it at the show and it seemed to be alright, just maybe a bit noisy. When I got it home, it appears it can only pull its own weight, plus 1 or maybe 2 cars. What do you think the issue is and is it ok if I send it in to be repaired (I've always been very satisfied with Bachmann repair jobs).

[taz-of-boyds]

Is it running poorly, or just have poor traction (slipping wheels)?
Charles

[the Bach-man]

Dear JS,
You may certainly contact service, but, since your loco is used, there will be a modest fee.
Have fun!
the Bach-man

[brokemoto]

This is really a USRA 0-6-0 with pilot and trailing wheels added.  If you remove the idler wheels, it will pull a bit better, but not much.  These are rather anemic pullers, but I have yet to add the new switcher tender to one.  I suspect that such would make it a better puller.  It would also improve the electrical contact.

One of the problems is that the design of the front, live, tender truck is such that the wheels do not spin freely, thus creating a tremendous amount of drag on the locomotive.

With a very long break-in, it is a pretty good runner.