Hi;
The thread link below included an original Hogwarts Express in this years Christmas layout. I wanted to update the HE control system and add a couple of cars. Surprisingly, a slightly used (ebay) LionChief set fit the bill and gives me a chance to share a comparison:
Engines are externally the same aside from the tender connection (rod vs tether). Operationally they are quite different due to the LC control system vs conventional, yet the capabilities are almost the same. The big difference is the smoke. I modified my original with a hotter resistor but the LC still out performs (constant 18v). LC is a clear winner here due to the remote and smoke.
Tenders look the same but the original had power pickups where the LC relies on a tether. In both cases this is the sound source. I modified the original with a sound commander board for bell/whistle/chuff. The LC has better versions of all these plus announcements. So LC wins here.
Cars look the same but the bulbs must be different. The manuals show the same part number but the originals are much brighter (too bright on 18v). I wish I could be more specific but these cheap platic cars are a royal pain to open up. The LC ones will not open no matter how hard I press on the door windows. Minor advantage to the originals here.
Power Supply was also an upgrade topic since this is a portable layout and the original CW80 added weight as well as having a noisy fan on its last legs. What I do miss with the LC wallwart is the CW80 accessory output that was lighting a station and hobby shop. I've ordered a 12v 2amp wallwart for dedicated accessory power. Small advantage here goes to the original set, particularly if portability is not a big concern.
Packaging may not be a typical consideration but it matters because I repack everything each season. The original was much better for reusability.
Ultimately, the LC is a good upgrade over the original. I'll be sure to resist if LC+ ever comes along. The volume and speed control of LC+ would be a big advantage over this LC version while the fan driven smoke and remote coupler function would be less important in this case.
https://ogrforum.com/t...istmas-off-the-floor
Thanks, John
Original on left, LionChief on right.
