My favorite diesel locomotive of all time. If there is anyone out there that has different brands (Lionel, Weaver, MTH or others) of SD40-2s. What variations do you see in them? Which one is most realistic? Are there any that just run on standard track voltage (non command control etc) and thus are cheaper?
I cannot speak for all the brands you mentioned, but I do have a Lionel model that is simply amazing.
It is Lionel #6-28245 painted as Chessie System 7617. It is stunning. There are a few Chessie specific features that were left off the model, but nothing that keeps me from admiring it every time it takes a lap around my layout. Everything about the model is sharp looking - very realistic. It is conventional control and runs quite smooth. Down side, the horn - it’s terrible.
We run a MTH 20-2216-1 lettered for Chessie 7616. It was purchased with original PROTOSOUNDS/QSI, is a great puller, fast runner, and still puts out the smoke. Think I originally paid close to $300, but now I see them on tables for 150-200.
On our railroad, with standard curvature of O-42, this unit is the proverbial “bull in the china shop”. I pull it out of storage whenever I need to check clearances around tunnels, scenery, and passing sidings.
Boyd, Even though you classify yourself as a “conventional” operator don’t automatically disregard the TMCC engines, providing that the price is right, as they will operate in a conventional environment. The same goes with the MTH Proto-1 engines, they can be found fairly regularly at a good price. Yes they do have some battery issues but that can be avoided with the use of a BCR.
I hope to post a better picture soon, but here is one showing the front of the Lionel SD40-2.
From what I have read on the web there are at least 3 different lengths of front hoods. It seems like I have seen some with longer back porches than others but I could be wrong.
I have the 28246 (dummy version) and it is impressive. I am ordering the coventional partner to go with it today. The detail is great! Thanks for your picture of #7617. The dummy is numbered 7618 and they will make a great pair.
This is my one & only, during it’s testing upon arrival my only comment was “Sweet”.
Haven’t really done any significant runs with it, still working on the military loads to go with it. My grandson ran it for a bit, had to pry the Cab-1 out of his hands afterwards.
While not being eaxctly what you have in mind, the SD-45’s were the next one in line after the SD-40’s. I have a pair of Williams SD-45’s that run really good, no command control or sounds but plenty of power.
Also have an MTH SD-45 that has PS-2 command control and it runs very good, is more realistic looking as for detail, also costs more. So far the only draw back to any MTH engine is the traction tires come off within a year of regular running.
Lee F.