GN M-2 2-6-8-0
Testing new decoder TCS 1517 install with new lights. Trying to have at least one of each class of GN engines with decoders. With 55" drivers, this engine will 'tie up' the mainline running at only 20-30 SMPH. It took about an hour to go East on the mainline. It was used on branch lines. Actually, this train length is 'over scale' in that they only ran with about 12-20 cars on the branch line. A rather unusual wheel arrangement. One of the few engines that I've weathered: I put a lot of time and work into painting my engines and, especially with multi colored engines, I want them to look 'pretty'. Hiding all those colors defeats my purpose.
video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxkFCZ9UvC0
This engine was weighted many 'moons' ago with no room to run new LED wires so I had to route them under the running boards until I had access to the inside of the boiler.
Definitely not a high speed engine with 55" drivers. These engines were converted to O-8 mikes 2-8-2's; they were the largest mikes ever made.
Even got some 'rust' spots on the tender; don't remember adding those but they look 'scale'!
Hillyard
West of Wilmar.
Noticed front truck wheels weren't 'rolling'; a little oil seems to fix that.
