Previously released BLI PAs

[Upstate Gator]

I'm considering purchasing a BLI PA off of the auction site, but was curious as to anyone's experiences with them. There are old threads about issues with the product. Does anyone have positive experience with the PAs? Do they have an Alco sound or are the sound packages the same as the E units?

I recognize that members of this forum are often reticent to share their experiences/opinions, but I thought I would ask anyway.
 

Ben

[powersteamguy1790]

I'm considering purchasing a BLI PA off of the auction site, but was curious as to anyone's experiences with them. There are old threads about issues with the product. Does anyone have positive experience with the PAs? Do they have an Alco sound or are the sound packages the same as the E units?

I recognize that members of this forum are often reticent to share their experiences/opinions, but I thought I would ask anyway.
 

Ben

I've had good experiences with BLI PA's. They run and sound really great. Be careful about buying the BLI PA's on the auction site.

Have fun with it....

[Upstate Gator]

Thanks. It is through a dealer and unused. Are thee sounds Alco specific?
Ben

[Bob Bufkin]

I have 6 of them, 3 run so and so but do run.  Two are hit or miss (can't seem to get them to stop stalling) and one is the best passenger unit I have.  Just keeps on going and going and YES they do have an Alco sound to them.

[OHCR 4218]

Mine would run on DC, but not DCC originally, BLW replaced the decoder at no charge and now it runs well. It dose once in a while short on a switch.

[jagged ben]

I noticed a pair recently that evidently did not have sound.  Evidently that was one of the very earliest releases (might say Precision Craft).   So just check that the listing actually says they have sound.

I find the traction tires on mine a little annoying but otherwise I love them.

[Spikre]

 
   are Regular Drivers available from BLI to replace the Traction Tires ?
   might help out in the long run to make the switch if possible.
      Spikre
       

[jagged ben]

   are Regular Drivers available from BLI to replace the Traction Tires ?
   might help out in the long run to make the switch if possible.
      Spikre
       

I would also like to know the answer, but I don't.  A little scared to even take the shell off these.

[rrjim1]

I received regular wheel sets from BLI for both my E8s and PA1s. There are different types, BLI has changed the truck design a couple times. The lastest design uses the same pickup system as Atlas/Kato locos. I would pay a little more for a new unit. Mine run/pull great without the traction tires, very happy with mine.   

[davefoxx]

I received regular wheel sets from BLI for both my E8s and PA1s. There are different types, BLI has changed the truck design a couple times. The lastest design uses the same pickup system as Atlas/Kato locos. I would pay a little more for a new unit. Mine run/pull great without the traction tires, very happy with mine.

How did you order replacement parts?  I would like to take the traction tired wheelset off of my E7.

DFF