Looking for reviews on MTH Baldwin VO 1000 switcher

I have the Patapsco and Back River VO-1000, had no issues, great prime mover sounds.

I have the same one as Paul. It's a Railking.

Solid performer, good sound, and very reliable.

The start up sound file will grab your attention.

Hi,

I don't have one of these but I was struck by the report in the thread on this forum called "New MTH RS3 Smoke Problems," which about one-third of the way through refers to a badly installed smoke/fluid funnel in this (or one of these) model(s). This highlights the only problem I have ever had with smoke on MTH models , which is that the link between the smoke unit and the stack can sometimes be very badly installed. My Erie Triplex had a similar problem, which was very messy to fix.

Anyway, maybe you ought to have a look at that report.

I have both a RailKing PS-2 version in Nickel Plate, and a Premier PS-3 version in Long Island.  Both have excellent sounds, but the addition of smoke for the Premier version isn't worth the additional price over the RailKing version (IMHO).

Stuart

I HAD a RK version but sadly had to return it as it had a number of issues. One of the few engines I've ever mail ordered. It was a Tuscan Pennsy version and was BEAUTIFUL! Great detail, great paint, etc and sounded like it was going to blow to pieces. 

I BELIEVE the RK and Premier are exactly the same, with the Premier only having a smoke unit. Like Stuart, I don't believe it is worth the extra cost for a smoke unit and a purple box. Details have not changed at all between the two and if they have, its not noticeable (to me at least!). 

The poster needs to specify which VO-1000 model he is seeking.

There are several shell styles and types containing PS-2 or PS-3 designs.

It appears that everyone’s happy with the older units. I believe they were non- smoking Railkings.

The newer PS-3’s are Premiers with a different design and can have issues not found on earlier models.

So the specific answer depends on the which model and style you are talking about.

Basically I got a lemon containing 15 issues at an additional $100.00 because it smokes!

The new one is priced and marketed as a Premier without the additional Premier features.

After fixing what I could, I'm quite happy with the look and performance as the video on the links below indicate.

I wouldn't trade or re-sell it for anything.

I have the report if interested.

I have the Premier PS-3 version in Long Island and the smoke does not work very well at all.  In fact this model is the Railking version with a smoke unit added, and poorly at that! 

Just get the Railking version and save yourself $$$$

NYC, I thought the same thing at first.

Nothing wrong with the smoke output - see my LIRR Youtube video link below.

You may have to re-build and RTV the gasket. The fluid has a long way to travel to the smoke unit and may be leaking out along the way.

I have the PS2 RailKing version. Very satisfied with it. Sounds and low speed operation are excellent. The only down-side I've experienced is the trucks bump over Gargraves uncouplers.

I bought one specifically for a re-paint. It's currently got the ACL Purple People Eater paint job. Currently I'm awaiting the decal set. My friend Walt is painting it. Pics ASAP.

Gilly

I have the RK version and it is a great little engine except it shorted out as it passed over my Gargraves uncoupling tracks.  There was a forum discussion on solutions that required filing down the center of the uncoupler section.  I changed out the rollers with smaller diameter rollers you can buy from MTH; problem solved. 

Ron

I am refering to the Premier PS3 LIRR version which I just bought today. Guess I should have asked this question ysterday 

Do you have the part# for those rollers?

Thanks

Gilly

Paul and Jim, I'm looking for a Patapsco and Back River unit; ideas on where to search dealers or others that may be willing to sell?

Sorry, Pat. 

I haven't seen once since last October at York. I'll keep an eye out, and pass the word amongst the local guys.