I am trying to understand what the real difference is between the Spectrum boxcar vs the regular one. I know the are not making the spectrum one anymore.
Spectrum cars, as I understand it, are 1:20 scale and the regular (big hauler) cars are 1:22 scale
Standard Bachmann cars (Big Hauler line) are roughly 1:22.5 scale models of narrow gauge cars. Most details are plastic.
Bachmann Spectrum cars are 1:20.3 scale models of narrow gauge cars. Details and trucks are cast metal. Note that there was a large number of Spectrum box cars released into the market with a bad mix of metal that disintegrates over time. Stirrup steps, bolsters and trucks are subject to breaking with very little stress. There is no way to tell when purchasing if you are getting good cars, or cars with bad castings. For a time, Bachmann offered free replacement trucks which came with bolsters and steps. They are no longer offered free, but at last check could still be purchased in one color only.
Even with the issues, the Spectrum cars are beautiful. I have two or three and some spare trucks for future needs.
If you are running 1:29, 1:24 or LGB models the Big Hauler cars don’t look too far off. If you are running Fn3 or 1:20 trains, you want the Spectrum cars for full scale 1940-50’s cars. The Big Hauler cars can be used to represent smaller/older cars in an Fn3 train.
Prototype cars of different eras…
The third box car in this train as an Aristo Delton classic car which is 1:24, just a bit smaller than a Big Hauler car. The hopper car following is also 1:24. All the rest and the loco are Fn3 1:20.3 scale…
Speaking of Bachmann rolling stock…
Their NEW 2023 catalogue has just been announced…
…and guess what…!!
They are now going to produce what looks like several of the Aristocraft cars… the Evans box car, and a three bay hopper.
…and a GP 40…all in 1:29 scale…even with Aristo couplers !!
FJM
Didn’t those ‘shorty’ 20 ft cars get labelled “Spectrum” originally? [They are not 1:20 but they are nice 1:22.5 models of short freight cars. The flat car with donkey load is still available.]
I did see them @ the Big “E” Springfield show
Since I model in LGB Scale I only have purchased LGB and USA Trains woodside reefers and boxcars which will match up with each other well. I have not purchased any Bachmann old style cars todate, but now I may look into them. Like you said, Bachmann cars are a little on the not so good quality side and by the time I would rebuild them the cost of the cars becomes way higher then I value them. I buy most of my trains on eBay so I will start looking for some good deals, I have been looking for the Mobil Tank car in silver, but haven’t found the right deal yet.
trainman
John, the cars are re-released Aristocraft units, as the molds were acquired by Bachmann’s parent company after Aristo went under. I think the jury is out on what kind of quality we can expect from these. The new Eggliners with the FA power truck don’t seem to attract much criticism.
Bruce I have held 2 exact egg liners and cannot tell any difference, the color difference was obviously from age and time spent outside , but otherwise that look and feel the same , and seem to run about the same too