Just a question I had what is the pulling power? I had 12 in tow on the former Lionel Visitors layout at the Railroad Museum of Long Island at one time this is why I keep buying more postwar. Does anyone know? Thank You.
Mike Arnold
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Honestly, I can't be too sure. I know that almost all of Lionel's postwar engines were heavier than any modern reissues, but the 1950 773 had a short stack motor. I know the 783 Lionel made in 1984 had both a long stack motor and much better Magnetraction, and I have seen friends' 783's pulling 25 cars or so.....
Thanks for the reply that is a good goal for me someday, or the next time I get back out to Riverhead. The main reason why it is a 12x30 foot layout so I can run a long train.
Mike Arnold
My Postwar 1950 773 pulls a dozen postwar cars up a 5% incline. On a level surface I think you could double that. Add in modern cars with great trucks and balance and you might be really surprised at what it would pull.
Remember the curve diameter is the real limiting factor.
My 773 is my favorite postwar engine. My Lionel SD70ACe is my favorite modern engine and it will pull 27 cars up and over the 5% incline. (Careful balance on the weight distribution - heavy in front and light in the rear. Ha Ha...)
So my goal will be 24 or more since the layout is all flat. I just like to bring her to the museum and let her stretch her legs. It is amazing something that is 63 years old runs like a champ. Plus the fact that it was found in a used trains bin by my Grandfather in the 1960s in a hardware store in Valley Stream NY. My father played Gomez Adams with it and the fact is she is still here with us today. When I read the Classic Toy Trains Article about it I was hooked now I just need a tender shell for the frame and I wonder if the williams tender shell will fit on the Lionel frame?
Mike Arnold
