1. Mike David

    Mike David New Member

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    Are the Kato starter sets a good value? Either with trains or just tracks.

    Thanks, Mike David
     
  2. NorsemanJack

    NorsemanJack TrainBoard Member

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    I think the track sets provide an excellent introduction to N scale. As for the trains, it will likely depend how close the included equipment matches your interests.
     
  3. Hardcoaler

    Hardcoaler TrainBoard Member

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    If you're new to N Scale, the quality of Kato trains and track are excellent and will provide a great start.
     
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  4. Mr. Trainiac

    Mr. Trainiac TrainBoard Member

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    The ES44 starter set includes japanese-prototype cars painted as American ones. If you are concerned about prototype fidelity, go with the passenger sets. The Metra or Amtrak sets make more sense because they don't mix cars from different countries. If you are looking to just have fun with some trains, this may not matter to you. If you are looking to expand into a realistic model railroad later on, the freight cars may look out of place. All Kato trains run well and the Unitrack system works well too.

    I think it is the best sectional track system in N scale. It is readily available at most train stores and online and includes prepackaged expansion sets as well as individual pieces to design your own layouts. The locomotives run quietly and smoothly. There isn't much to complain about.
     
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  5. sidney

    sidney TrainBoard Member

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    i say Kato all the way. never a hiccup. perfect running . provided you keep tracks clean. my Katos don't like dirty tracks. i run Kato tracks and locos . Kato systems are easy to put together and just work end of story. many expandable parts to add to any existing setup. move them around from place to place is easy as eating pie. hummm pie im hungry see ya.
     
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  6. Massey

    Massey TrainBoard Member

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    The only issue I have ever had with a Kato locomotive was not even an issue caused by Kato. The previous owner claimed "Brand New Never Used" but when I put the 2 locos on my rails they would not hardly move. Some dissection into the loco found the gears and motors all wound up with carpet lint. This had the unfortunate consequence of burning up the motors from loading them down too much. I got a few $$$ back from the seller, then put in an order to Kato's part department and 2 brand new motors arrived pretty quick. A simple cleaning and reassembly and they run just like they were brand new never used.

    I recommend Kato all the way. Their customer service is also top notch. I had quite a few Kato locomotives in my HO days and now that I do N scale, all but one of my engines is Kato, and my only non Kato doesn't see the rails as it cant pull anymore than 5 cars.
     
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  7. brokemoto

    brokemoto TrainBoard Member

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    Kato did re-issue some of those F-unit sets that had the JNR cars and replaced the rolling stock with their North American prototype covered hoppers and North American looking caboose (the one that looks like a steel version of a NYO&W wood caboose). I am guessing that the covered hoppers did not sell well, so they wound up in the sets.

    As do others here, I have no reservation about recommending Kato products. For the most part, they are excellent. At worst, they are merely adequate to the task and reliable. The Kate mmight cost a bit more, but it is well worth what you pay.
     
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