Bachmann Octopus Modified
These Bachmann carnival rides are reincarnations of the IHC originals. They are relatively simple to build and run rather smoothly. Bachmann includes the motor. Compared to the Spider ride, the Octopus has thread to lift the legs, where the spider has solid shafts that snap in place. These threads are the most difficult part of the entire build. They must be extremely accurate to work right. I suggest tying the thread to a needle and, starting at the leg hook, tie and glue. Then with a thin prop under the arm's bucket, (I used 1.5mm thick balsa scrap) carefully glue to the rotating wheel while it is brought closest to that bucket. Careful not to glue axis rod! If you are not exact for each to be set at this lowest point, the buckets will either hit the deck or be too high for a realistic look. Do the opposite next, then repeat. Its easier to do this BEFORE the lowest drive sprocket is installed for easier manual rotation.
Out of the box they are virtually exact replicas of the real rides. Your paint is what makes them look good. Mine has been heavily modified. I added shells, glittered the deck, added blue LEDs and a small hollowed-out egg for the head. (See pics).
Overall, the Spider is MUCH easier because of the leg lifts, but variety is needed at a carnival.
Kelly
