I just have to ask...

Is this the link:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/LIONEL...;hash=item339e8480ec

You just need to copy the link from your browser and past it into your message.

Looks like a nice specimen to me.  Almost surely repainted, but it is a pro job if so.

  Def. restored. The cab slot is on/off for the chugger and a cut out for the e-unit. The side air tanks are die cast and look to have been cleaned rubbing off the thin copper plating. Priced too high for a restoration, but I have seen worse ones bring more money! 

I always caution new entries into the hobby to be weary of books. Just because it is in print does not make it gospel!!!

While I do agree. It's only to a point. Most collectors use as many as three trust worthy reference publications. Doyle's publications have no place in the collectors library due to the many proven charges of, plagiarism against him. Greenberg's publications have a proven track record. His newest book raises the bar for Std Gauge. He was in complete control from writing to publishing. I sincerely hope that I'm around when his three volume set covering, Prewar Lionel O-Gauge trains is released sometime in the Fall of 2021. I am convinced that it will be the best Prewar O-Gauge Guide ever written. Of course this is my own opinion. That being said....

The new collector should read up on his/ her particular favorite. You should know about each year of manufacture and changes that the manufactures made. And lastly get to know each and every item that's in your circle and every item that touches your circle of expertise. Well, that's my nickels worth. I'll go back to my corner now. 

Any collector worth his salt knows the Greenberg books are filled with inaccuracies.  Pioneer collectors had no books...just acquired knowledge.  It is absurd for a new collector to even think about a Blue Comet as it would be like a Chevy guy looking at a Lamborghini.  The mere fact that the poster is asking these questions suggests he is not knowledgeable about Standard Gauge.  Buy only what you know about.

I wasn't planning on buying it.  Just curious for knowledge from more experienced guys.  Like fun conversation.  The books certainly are a great starting point.  A lot more helpful than that advice, for sure.  I am having fun, I hope you are too.  Thank you for sharing. 

I think Ron was just trying to help!  Sometimes the written word comes across different than the face to face.  BTW, that 400e looks like a pretty good example to me, FWIW!  

Ron,

My friend my reference was mainly focused on Bruce's upcoming releases. I do respect you and "bow down" thus allowing you to have the last word, which you are known for.

Now there is a 309,310,312 'baby' blue comet passenger set with a starting bid at $399.  They are in good shape.  Would make a pretty darn nice set.  Although the engine may not have been typically paired with these cars.

Any collector worth his salt knows Ron Blume blows a lot of hot air.

Knowledge of toy trains or any other collectible evolves over time. NO reference can ever be considered definitive or complete. They strive to be comprehensive and they strive to be accurate (hence the involvement of peers in the compilation of such works), but that's about as far as they can go. They often inspire further inquiry and result in new knowledge, and that's truly what it's all about.

William 1,

   Alan is absolutely correct use the books as a reference starting point, for your over all knowledge, and go from there.

If I ever get the room I want an original American Flyer Standard Gauge Silver Presidential train, to run in my outside Loop, using the TR mode of the DCS.

PCRR/Dave