What is the maximum steam loco axle configuration that will run smoothly on an 18" radius track? I have been searching the forums here but have not found a definitive answer.
Background: I had a really nice old Mantua 0-4-0 which obviously is compatible with the track but it had some issues I was unable to resolve so I returned it. Other than slow, jerky, laboured forward movement it was a really nice little engine and I will probably regret that decision but am ready to move on and maybe move up to something larger.
I am considering something like an 0-8-0, 2-8-0 or 2-8-2. Based on recommendations from this forum I am looking at Mehano, IHC, or Rivarossi. From what I read, Tyco, Bachman and Model Power are lower end? I want to pull 6 small (40' to 50') cars and have a 16-1/2 foot oval layout of Lifelike power-loc track. Keep in mind that I am not a collector (at least not yet!) but have setup the ho track around a slot car track for myself and my young grandkids to play with. By the way, my grandaughters (4 & 6 yrs) enjoy the track as much as my grandsons (2,6 & 8 yrs).
Background: I had a really nice old Mantua 0-4-0 which obviously is compatible with the track but it had some issues I was unable to resolve so I returned it. Other than slow, jerky, laboured forward movement it was a really nice little engine and I will probably regret that decision but am ready to move on and maybe move up to something larger.
I am considering something like an 0-8-0, 2-8-0 or 2-8-2. Based on recommendations from this forum I am looking at Mehano, IHC, or Rivarossi. From what I read, Tyco, Bachman and Model Power are lower end? I want to pull 6 small (40' to 50') cars and have a 16-1/2 foot oval layout of Lifelike power-loc track. Keep in mind that I am not a collector (at least not yet!) but have setup the ho track around a slot car track for myself and my young grandkids to play with. By the way, my grandaughters (4 & 6 yrs) enjoy the track as much as my grandsons (2,6 & 8 yrs).