I'm considering getting one of these. We already have a few LC and a number of LC+. Anyone have an A5 0-4-0 they can share their experiences, and the Bluetooth functionality also - thanks.
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I bought one about three months ago. It quickly became my favorite switcher.
Bill
I don't own one myself but I've run one and it's very smooth with good slow-speed control and plenty of roller pickups to prevent stalling on switches. With a flywheel it coasts nicely too. One "con" is that it's a little oversized- bigger than a full-scale model would be. (I have the MTH Premier A5 and it's tiny, almost dainty by comparison.) I think the LionChief version still looks fine with scale-sized freight cars; not as much so with "traditional" or O27 size. Hope this helps!
Just received my LC+ PRR A5 and it's impressive! Beautiful details such as a sliding roof vent and movable cut bar.
Yes it is large and heavy, almost dwarfing my Polar Express baby Berk but it runs great. Power pickups on the tender let it move slowly and smoothly through the turnouts and crossovers.
Bluetooth functions perfectly and controls the smoke fan.
The rear coupler operation is a bit flaky but seems to be getting better as it runs.
I'd love a functional back up light but at these prices it's a great value.
I have the NYC A5 and overall I’ve been very impressed. This was my first loco without an e-unit and I was skeptical. It was a great buy and a ton of fun to run. I’ll share my experience with it thus far.
Pros:
nice details
heavy feel to it, metal tender
runs great with remote, app, and transformer
Very good low speed control for spotting cars at operating track
good puller, smooth and strong
front and rear remote couplers are awesome
can control top speed from app, then give the controls to 3 yr old
nice smoke output
nicely detailed running gear/side rods (although maybe not prototypical)
Cons (some opinion here):
no backup light
no firebox light
2 chuffs per revolution
speaker sound for chuffs is a little tinny (similar to alarm clock radio sound quality) I cant compare to other locos as this is my first loco with sound.
Running on 031 curves, I have Had intermittent issues with the headlight. The wire between loco and tender seems really crammed in there, perhaps causing issues with the connection.
I have some smoke fan noise (high pitch whirling) Not sure if this is normal or not
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None of those are real deal breakers, but it helps to know what you’re purchasing.
