Williams Electric Trains

[chuck]

Previous post re anyone still offering a simple E-Unit, e.g. QSI DCRU or a Dallee version of same:

Besides Williams by Bachmann, does anyone else make conventional 3-rail O gauge today? That is, straight track power, with no radio(command) control.

My answer was no. I looked around.

[Roy]

Maybe some importer from Europe [still offers conventional O gauge locos]?

I looked up ETS. This is how they describe their drives:

"The drive units are fitted with a patented automatic clutch that allows the wheels to freewheel along the track. Only when power is applied does the drive engage between the motor and the wheels. The drive units offered are standardized for our range of models and operate from a Direct Current (DC) supply. If you wish to use the units with Alternating Current (AC) supply then it will be necessary to order the AC module #840 which we offer as an optional accessory. This features a rectifier and also allows switchable change of direction. The change of direction function is operated either by stopping the locomotive (AC-0) or by applying a voltage surge pulse (AC-1). Please select the correct module to suit."

So, conventional. From the photos I've seen, they look very nice. But, European.

I have a couple of Williams engines. I like them, except for their non-backdrivable gears. I have always intended to regear them. I've thought about using clutches like ETS, but the added complexity rubs me the wrong way. Using the right motor and gears is more satisfactory.

[jlong]

Appears that even Atlas Trainman has ditched conventional. Maybe because people want the ERR Railsounds that comes with TMCC along with diesel exhaust whether they are running conventional or TMCC. NOS conventional models from Atlas dealers is probably your only choice if you want conventional.

[rogruth]

Thanks, Chuck.
Now it makes sense.

[ScaleCraft]

Previous post re anyone still offering a simple E-Unit, e.g. QSI DCRU or a Dallee version of same:

Besides Williams by Bachmann, does anyone else make conventional 3-rail O gauge today? That is, straight track power, with no radio(command) control.

My answer was no. I looked around.

Dallee still does them. I order when needed. Have to get three next week.

[ScaleCraft]

Thanks, Chuck.
Now it makes sense.

Williams....history....I always wanted an F-M Trainmaster. 35 years ago I found an early Williams unit, bought it. If I recall, it had SD-40 or SD-45 trucks (at least sideframes) so I traded it off two weeks later.

[chuck]

I reworked a Williams EP-5. Swapped out the truck side castings (original was a PA-1) with K-line/Lionel scale frames. Still looking for an airchime horn to replace the generic ones the set came with. Original Williams were pretty rugged/bulletproof. I'm much less a fan of the new/imporved Williams by Bachmann.

[rogruth]

It seems to me that Bachmann is adding little to the Williams line and is letting much just die away.
Yes there are several additions but many more deletions.

[webenda]

It seems to me that Bachmann is adding little to the Williams line and is letting much just die away.
Yes there are several additions but many more deletions.

I agree. The Williams U33c is one that is no longer listed on the Williams by Bachmann web store.

A few hobby stores still have a stock of old Williams trains (at the old prices.)



The additions are a little pricier but they do not appear to be Lionel knockoffs so the price increase makes sense. [opinion]
Bachmann raised all the prices when they purchased Williams. As a result I lost interest in the new Williams.

[Roy]

Original Williams were pretty rugged/bulletproof. I'm much less a fan of the new/imporved Williams by Bachmann.

What are the differences?

[rogruth]

Agree with Wayne. Western Depot has original Williams stuff at good prices at least until they sell all of their stock.

[Roy]

I see that Bachmann has an interesting die-cast Whitcomb 50 tonner, but only in On30.

[jlong]

Good deals for Williams show up on ebay as well. You just have to know what you are looking at when it comes to era. For diesels, you want the era that started with flywheels, 6 amp reverse boards, and true blast 2 horns. The box art and box descriptions indicate this stuff. Deals on Williams brass from the late 80's and early 90's show up as well. Brand new, mint in the box for half what it sold for new. Just stay away from the early brass offerings such as the Hudson from the early 80's. Those are pretty bad.

[chuck]

The old E-Units and basic horn/whistle/bell.

They doubled their prices in almost all cases and all you got were some mediocre sounds.

[ScaleCraft]

The old E-Units and basic horn/whistle/bell.

They doubled their prices in almost all cases and all you got were some mediocre sounds.

Basic E-units or with horn/whistle/bell? Two different things. Dallee does them, I have been getting the 12A for standard Gauge conversions. I'll czech with Dallas on smaller amperage units.

Oh for the QSI units, that not only fit where the old mechanical e-unit fit, but had the angled corner to clear.