I got a new (2nd run) BNSF Pumpkin C44-9W recently at a train show and when I run it, it is significantly louder(with gear type noise) than my other C44-9W from the first run. Does anyone else have this condition? I removed the shell and it sounds the same. I'm going to take the trucks apart next. Boy the headlight sure is BRIGHT though
Actually, I had the reverse situation happen with my Katos. The first run has a whine as it starts up which sounds like a turbo spooling up. It is louder and less smooth than my secound run version. That one is smooth and silent! And those lights are BRIGHT. You can get a replacement board from Kato for about $15.00 and put it in the 1rst run to make the lights just as bright.
About the only problem I've ever had with a Kato making gear noise was on a B truck. The worm had too much backlash and would growl at times. A small washer (NWSL I think) took up the slack and it is quiet now. I hope this helps.
You must have been unlucky, I have 2 new Dash 9's and I also think they run quieter. Doug [ 02 July 2001: Message edited by: nug ]
If you like those white lights, take the back LED out and swap it onto one of your older units. Save your dollars for more Kato Macs. Works for me !
Your question isn't very clear. Are you asking if the Kato C44 has 4 side windows or are you asking if the prototype BNSF has four windows? The current Katos do not have 4 windows--they have only 3. Rumors have surfaced suggesting that the next run may have the proper number of windows for the BNSF H2s. The prototypes do have 4 windows. Hope this answers your question, which ever it was.
It was about the Kato engine, i knew the Proto had 4 windows, but none of the models do. Thanks for the help, i won't waste money right now.
