Hi there,
I've seen a thread or two on this subject, and someone mentioned the Heljan O scale (2-rail) Deltic. When the Brits developed the Napier Deltic engine for naval patrol boats, the railroad development followed. They thought of trying it out in the USA, and I think demo'd the unit for the B&O.
The preserved "Deltic" locomotive has a distinctly American blue/white colour scheme that reflected the B&O idea, so that door is open for your ideas.
Some pics here: http://homepage.ntlworld.com/theblackwatch/prot.htm
And check the British sound systems too - the Deltic had a special sound; not so much of a roar, more like an all-out howl at 100 mph. The engines had three banks of opposed-piston cylinders, in a triangular formation ("Deltic") You-tubing will find all sorts of fan videos. Hmm, should I try it?
