A number of posts (including mine) have noted that this new Williams ten-wheeler is perhaps the best conventional slow speed steam loco available. Just uncanny in the smooth, steady, strong pull it gives at very low scale speeds. Even at 14 volts, mine is still moving "slower" rather than faster.
I ran a little comparison yesterday, among mid and small size steam locos I have, only my Vision Hudson can can match this little loco in concentional control, smooth slow speed pulling power (the Hudson can pull more cars but can't run any slower). I expect several other Vision and JLC steamers would, too, but they are all too large to look "real" on even my 72" curves.
I've ordered an second ten-wheeler to bash - modernize it it fits into the era I model (early to mid 1950s). I don't expect many problems doing so and will post pictures when done.
HAS ANYONE CONSIDERED MORE SERIOUS MODIFICATIONS? - I will take the body off the loco when I do this and I plan to look at something as extensive as, then maybe order a third to play big-mods with. I'm wondering about:
a) replace the diecast shell with one of several in my parts bin (old K-line, Lionel, MTH locos that died and I judged unrepairable) or . .
b) make or seriously rebuild the existing shell with a new, larger boiler, etc.
c) maybe even add a rear truck if the new shell is longer.
d) add sound to the tender (have no yet taken it a part to see if there is
room, or to a boxcar that would tether right behind the tender.
This is such a good running set of machinery compared to any other steam loco I have that I think it worth serious time and effort to produce what could be just an excellent runner.
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Edited by the Webmaster to fix the title of the thread.
Original Post
. I've always been fascinated with the design and operation of these unique steamers. I'd buy one if any were ever made by the current manufacturers! And I wouldn't care what it cost!
