OK guys I got a nice tax return so I decided to spend alittle bit of it. I have a new set of GM Demo F3’s and now I need an electric. Which should I get an EP-5 or single motor GG1. I’m between a 2351 Milwaukee Road EP-5 and 1947 GG1 2332 with red brush plate. Both are in the same condition, GG1 stripes are visible but almost gone. The 2351 is really nice but has a hairline crack on nose of one side. Which would you pick - I love both but can only take one home!
Wait for a two-motor GG1.
Lionel “EP5s” only vaugely resemble the prototypes, if that is a consideration for you.
I second what Bob says. I want a GG-1 also someday.
You should make your own calls, afterall, YOU will be running it.
You should pick…but you did ask.
I have the 2332 with the Madison cars. Built the set from separate purchases, and it’s one of my favorites. The 2332 has got a bad knock from some collectors but I have to disagree;
- there’s plenty of power to pull the passenger cars. Even in this pre magnatraction single motor version.
- It has a buzz-box horn, which does not require a battery. (no battery damage)
- because it is not as sought after, you can get a really nice one for $400-500.
I must admit, I’ve been looking for a New Haven 2350 for many hyears now. But flaking nose decals just make them so ugly, or non-flaking so expensive. I’ll probably get one on the cheaper side and get a repro decal.
Let us know how eventually spend the train funds.
Tim
you and me both. I can see that train in my sleep, with a long line of those black cars with the orange doors.
I’d have to pick the GG1.
I think the die-cast GG-1 would be the better choice ,as it is way cooler than the EP-5!
I have the GG1. I got it from my grandpa’s basement after he died in 2000. It is in really great shape too. The striping is mostly there, and only slightly faded in the center where it gets picked up most of the time. It is a great looking model, and in my opinion a lot nicer looking than an EP-5. My buzzing horn doesn’t work, but I have heard that that happens often enough. I even have the original box. It’s in fairly nice shape too. Until I got it, it had probably sat in my grandpa’s basement, in the box, since the 70’s or so. I really don’t know how often he took it out, since he didn’t have any track set up.
I would pick th GG1 Regards Steve
I’ve always liked the GG-1s.
underworld
[:D][:D][:D][:D][:D]
Well I’m not sure which one I want - but I would like an engine that meets the following requirements.
- Smooth quiet runner
- Respected model
- Unique
- not an F3 or Alco
- Something colorful - no more blue or black
If you look at the adds in this months CTT, you can buy a new Lionel reissue of the 2360 in Tuscan Red with the solid gold stripe. These engines meet all five of the above mentioned requirements and can be had for less than $400. They also come with TMCC, Railsounds, and a Lionel warranty.
If it weren’t for the hairline crack in the shell, the 2351 would certainly be the better choice. With the hairline crack, you’ll be stuck with it for the rest of your life and couldn’t give it away. I’d go for the GG-1. The nickle rims are too cool. The 2332 is the smoother of the two. They are both single motored and pull about the same (the 2351 may pull slighty better depending on its magnetraction strength). The 2332’s lack of magnetraction is made up for in weight…
I think I’m gonna do the 2332 GG1 - its a GG1 and its the right price. Its in excellent condition (but no stripes). I’m alittle worried about the pulling power. I need it to pull 6 cars - I think it can handle the job. I might even have the shell restored by Len to make it look new - what do you think?
What kind of cars are you planning on pulling?
As i said, mine pulls the 3 Madison heavyweights, circa 1949, easily. And these aren’t the smoothest rolling cars.
As for resoring, it sound like you just need the stripes. Make sure that whoever does the job uses the rubber stamping method. That’s how they did the originals, in all their imperfections, but looks much nicer. I’ve seen silk screened and decal restorations and the stipes always appear too thick.
Good luck.
Tim
That’s a no brainer, Look for a decent POSTWAR 2332 for around $350. No disposable can motor junk for me.
Anybody know the best placeto restore the stripes to like new condition. I want to retain the original paint since it is so nice!
Eliot Welz (Lionel GG1 restorer extraordinaire) used to restore the stripes only. I don’t know if he still does, but it’s worth a call or e-mail.
WOW - I just won a Tuscan 2340 on EBay for $305. I never win anything on Ebay! I’m excited its in nice condition however on one side at the bottom corner the paint has bubbled. I think I want this item restored. Does anyone have Elliot Welz’s info?