[Pete Thornton]

All these comments seem perfectly normal for a new engine and new owners, if I can be allowed to say that, with the exception of the 15 min gas fill. Getting the tank full just takes practice and the right filler equipment. Try pressing down less, or more and be aware many fillers and tanks are different. Don't forget that those Ronson valves self-vent so you will see/hear air and a little gas venting out as you fill with liquid under pressure. When gas starts really blowing out, like when the safety valve pops, then you are full.

Traction is a whole different art form. My C-19 would easily spin its wheels when starting as it has lots of torque. Cylinder sizes have a lot to do with that, as do wheel diameters. Springing, to keep all 8 wheels on the rails, is another issue. See if you can figure out how much throttle is needed to set off with no wheel spin.

Wheels and the material they are made of does make a difference. The Ruby may have scrubbed the initial shine off the treads.

You are making me consider getting one. . .

 

[Pete Thornton]

much cold water and a big pressure drop, just cracked open enough to pump some water into the boiler and the rest back to tender

My first loco with an axle pump was the AML K4, and it took me quite a while to get the hang of adjusting the bypass. As Russell says, it doesn't have to be full on or off - halfway is a setting you have to learn.

Don't forget that ceramic burners are new to Accucraft. They may not have got the process perfectly designed yet. It wouldn't be the first time that owners had to help them learn the right solution.