I’m at a fork in the road. I have the opportunity to go after one of these in the next few days each with their respective tenders (1615T, 2403B & 6403B). Some will be pricerer than others, some have been re-painted.
Anyone out there care to share which they would buy and why?
The bell ringing feature of the 2403 & 6403 is an interesting and attractive feature however, I understand from a very reliable parts dealer that the "relay’ for the bell is no longer available nor is it very audible and if it goes, you have a fancier, heavier and more expensive cast 1615T. I didn’t forget the light on the 2403 & 6403 tenders, it is nice but not as attractive as the bell.
1656 would be and is my choice if I can ever find one. I’ve been to two Yorks and have yet to see what I’m looking for. Of course I want it in at least excellent shape and all original.
Expect to pay over $500 or so for type of engine in the condition I just described.
The 1656 has all the handrail detail and the “good tender” too. I s hould also add that the one year only 1665 is also really nice but even tougher to find.
I don’t know about the others, but I’d give the 1615 a wide berth and not touch it with a ten foot pole. It is geared way too high for actual use as a switcher. It will literally fly likea rocket. If you must have one I’ll sell you mine…for a bargain. Odd-d
Mike, that’s what I’ve heard. I think I saw what you’re looking for at the Goldberg show this past weekend. The guy had both a 1615 in excellent shape without boxes and a 1656 with boxes. He wanted $170 for the 1615 and close to $500 for the 1656.
Odd-d, I’ll keep you in mind if I go in that direction.
What would you pay for a repainted 1656 & 6403/2403B tender. Both paint jobs look good bu it looks like there might be some rust on te tender frame. Odd that whoever did the paint job didn’t address rust as well.
The 1656 and 1665 switchers are both the better postwar B-6s. The 1665 was only made one year, however it also has only 1 spur gear, making the 1656 with it’s dual reduction gears, the far better choice for running. I would also not forget the 201-203 prewar o-6-o version of this engine, nuckle couplers are simple to add, and they run very smooth. My 1656 is one of my few concessions to postwar trains, and i wont be selling it anytime soon. Good luck.
I joined the forum discussion group a few days ago and noticed your interest in a postwar
0-4-0 steam switcher and tender. I have such a combo that I might consider selling:
#1656 0-4-0 switcher. #6403B bell-ringing tender with undeformed handrails and working backup light.
Condition: excellent
All lettering intact and clear.
Bell works fine.
Hard to find in this condition.
Comes with original boxes (albeit in rough shape) for both loco and tender. Loco box is missing one end flap; ends and parts of both box sides have paper tape on them.
Let me know if you’re still in the market for this gem.