Fantastic Smoke Output on Lionel's Demo Video of the Big Boy

i wouldn't be afraid to run it.  i would run it all the time!  

every time i look at this engine, i start drawing plans for a new layout with O-72 curves (not enough for looks, i know, but at least it would run).  then i think about the work involved and the concessions i would have to make for O-72 and the fever fades.

Don, I would imagine Lionel and Mike use Lionel Premium.  I use it and it is better than their older stuff.

Hi John, good to see an old friend still posting!  Since I moved to AZ, have not been to York.  How has retirement been?

On smoke, I use LGB/Piko smoke fluid.  In actual tests, that particular smoke fluid smoked the most, but the author (of the article) was nervous that it might catch on fire in O gauge trains.  (Older LGB used a Sleuth Smoke unit.)  The newest engine I have to test smoke with (steamer) is the Vision Line PRR Switcher.  

Right now, I am (unfortunately) limited to carpet central RR. 

Where in AZ?  I'm in Mesa, and another forum member I know is in PHX.  We both are getting the BB, so you can have a chance to not only see it in action, but double headed!

Side note, what's your ticket level?  From your photo I'm guessing General or Extra.  I've got my General, but still need to set up my shack.

Hi, (Sinclair  

I'm in Buckeye, about 20 miles west of Phoenix.  It would be nice to meet a few fellow railroaders.

I am an extra class.  Unfortunately, that is my other shack, although the new one is perhaps even better.  Have to get some decent antenna(s) up though.

Cool beans.  If you ever want to get in touch, my email is on my profile.

Not sure what fluid they are using, but I can't wait to get mine!

It is going to be an epic engine.  I ran my VL Challenger the other day and I never thought it could be surpassed, but I think the new VL BB will do it.  Should be a lot of fun.

Just an FYI, forum sponsors have them for less than $2K with some offering free shipping.  

Are you CRAZY?I will run that Big Boy until it is down to the AXLES.Nick

Mine will NOT be a shelf queen, not for that price!

Also the track voltage question, 16V or 18V?

We have decided to run everything at 16V to save car and caboose (cabin) bulbs.

Also the track voltage question, 16V or 18V?

With the new 'smart' smoke units do you think the voltage to the element remains constant, whether operating at 16 or 18 volts to the track?  I don't know.

The voltage is regulated on the smoke control board, I don't think small differences in track voltage will affect smoke output.