Just looking around and saw this on sale.
Chip,
I don’t own any IHC’s. But what I have read or heard from others on the forum, the IHC locomtovies are good and quiet runners but not the best detailed. If you are wanting a better detailed steamer then Athearn Genesis series, Like-Like Proto 2000 series, Bachmann Spectrum series, and Broadway Limited would be the better choices. You’re going to pay more for them but the detailing is very nice. Sometimes, Trainworld.com has some terrific deals going on. They are worth checking out. (Link: http://www.trainworld.com)
Since you were thinking upon DCC before, I noticed in the blurb that it doesn’t say that this particular locomotive is “DCC-ready”. Doesn’t mean it can’t be nor that it’s not a good locomotive. All it means is that it was not initially designed with DCC in mind. My guess is that this is one of their older models that they are trying to move out.
Maybe someone else can give you a first-hand report on it.
Tom
The locomotive in question is a IHC Premier Series 4-6-2 for $72. I don’t own a 4-6-2,but I like my Premier 2-6-0. Joe G.
Anyone else familiar with this premier series?
I’m working on one right now.I was impressed with thier running qualities–Quiet,good slow speed,can motor.Though many complain about thier lack of detail,the 4-6-2 has most of the detail of the USRA engine but they are cast on.For my purpose thats fine because I use the IHCs to super detail to match nyc engines.I cut off most of the moulded on details and add cal-scale and other parts,then add a Lenz BEMF decoder.Of course you don’t have to do any of that and you’ll still have a decent running loco.Just make sure to paint those 'chrome" handrails black.For $59 it’s a good deal.