I am developing plans for my first model railroad. Most space I can come up with now is 72 X 42, which I realize is small. I am thinking of small steam locomotive because it appears they work better on smaller radius track. Two specific ones I am looking at are: Bachmann HO 51405 - Santa Fe #498 Bachmann HO 52205 - Texas & Pacific #316, my favored choice because of Texas connection. Are these suitable for what I am doing? I know they are not top of line, but are they of decent quality? All help appreciated. BTW - I am very envious of those of you who have houses with basements. Best I can do is a large garage which wife will not yield her parking space. I am doing a very basic setup - engine, a few cars and caboose. Will use grandkids to help me plan and construct landscape and buildings.
1. The Santa Fe may not be named after Texas cities, but they had at least as much track in Texas as the T&P. 2. DCC locomotives will operate without a DCC system, but you might be able to get higher quality for your money if you can find something not so equipped. 3. I hesitate to speak freely about corporations in this day and age, but the brand you mention is not one I tend to recommend. There are a number of brands I'd trust used over a new one of those. I do recommend Athearn-Roundhouse for quality and value in smaller steamers. Unfortunately, they have nothing in production at this moment, so finding one in stock will be a challenge.
Just a thought. Some Mehano / IHC engines run pretty good, may not be the most detailed but may work for you. 2-6-0 ,4-4-0 can run good . The problem with some engines like Walthers/Life-Like is getting parts to repair something.
