I have managed to acquire a Bachmann Spectrum J-class 4-8-4 steam locomotive new-in-the-box. Included is a clear plastic bag of gray powder. Does anybody know what the purpose of this might be? I don't think it's graphite, and it is not mentioned in any of the paperwork. I have a theory that it could be used to dress up the coal load in the tender, but thought I would ask around to see if anyone knows for sure. Thanks!
Moisture absorbent? Weathering powder? Nose candy? When I bought a Bachmann 2-8-0 Consolidation it came with a plastic bag of black powder that I think is supposed to be used as coal dust to weather the loco with, to get the shine off the coal on the tender. There was nothing in the instructions about it either..
Probably not absorbant, since the plastic bag doesn't appear to be porous. Weathering powder sounds like a possibility, as well as getting the shine off the coal. Sounds like the same stuff you got with your 2-8-0.
I got the same with both Bachman Spectrums. 0-6-0 saddle tank switcher and 4-6-0. I didn't open the bag to see what it's like but think it's for dusty coal effect.
Bachmann is good at responding to customer questions online. I'd say your best option is to ask them since they made it.
