I am considering using one of these for switching on my layout. Opinions? How does it compare to Atlas O switchers
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Nice running and sounding engine. Mine has TMCC with speed control. Smooth runner, great switch engine, generally costs less than the MTH engine. My only complaint is that the engine sound is that of a 567 EMC engine, but heck many of those old Baldwins were re-engined with one of those anyway, so it's quite accurate.
Paul Fischer
Be sure that you get one that has been test run recently. For some reason some examples of the VO-1000 have had a problem with excessive friction in the drive mechanism - it seems to have to do with the fit of the motor/worm assemblies in the power trucks. It's fixable, but better just to make sure you have one that runs right in the first place. Also the stock horn often gets knocked off and lost because it is mounted in a vulnerable position. This is easy enough to fix, and most of the prototypes actually had the horn mounted in a less vulnerable place anyway, so when you replace it, put it on the hood in front of the cab rather than on the cab roof like Weaver did.
On the positive side, they look good, run great, and can often be had at very favorable prices on the secondary market. I have acquired several of them at prices that make sense just to get them for the TMCC/RS electronics.
Anyone have a video of one of these?
