Just got a new Bachmann 3700 class "City of Bath".
Thought I'd run it in using DC as per the Bachmann instructions. So I built a loop powered by a Hornby DC controller. Tested it with a 0-4-0 club model that I have lying around, which scampered around merrily.
Popped the new loco on and nothing happened apart from an acrid burning smell. I quickly removed it from the track and there is an area of discolouration in the body right above the motor, so it must have got red hot instantly!


What do you reckon chaps? A dead short in the motor? Do you have to do something funky with new Bachmann loco's before putting them on a track? Is it the Hornby controller, or is 12v just 12v regardless of make?


Oh my, I'll have to go through the rigmarole of returning it now, oh the joys of mail order.

Certainly doesn't sound right!! I should return it asap Ted !!

Cheers
Ron

PS We've all had to it sometime or other!!

Hi Ted,

Seized gear train would do it. Or a disintegrating commutator (which happened to me recently, but that was with a 40 year old motor). 12v is 12v. DC motors are good to 15v or so. Good job there wasn't a decoder in there.

Nigel

Cheers for the replies fellas!

I'm pretty sad about it as it's a discontinued model and I had to search about to find it. I hope the retailer is sympathetic and has another. I wouldn't be happy with a repair because of the heat damage.

I normally just fit a decoder too! I only ran it DC as I had my boards laid out, so it was easier. :)

Hi Ted,

Got a City of Chester originally Truro NRM edition going spare. Bottom is repainted and weathered lightly, tender is modified to let sound out (Bachmann didn't think of that one!!), 1920's condition. Runs OK (3-4 coaches max). Easy enough to flip to City of Bath with new plates and numbers. Might even have the original DCC sound from Truro. I would have to check (it's in the USA and I'm in Canada for a month).

Nigel

Thanks Nigel, I'll let you know, I've got my fingers crossed about speaking to my retailer tomorrow.

Well, I finally managed to get through to my retailer on the phone, being trying all day.
He has another in stock! Just told me to send it back and they'll replace it, no quibble.
Fingers crossed for that one then!