Information on K-Line 2333

Well Nick, that one was made for a set. Don't believe it was ever a separate item item.

Pretty standard set-up like the other K-Line S-2's: Two truck mounted DC can motors, electronic circuit board reverse unit (it will run on either AC or DC current), one light bulb in the back cab part of the loco, with a lucite tube running to the front for a somewhat weak headlight, 4 traction tires, operating plastic couplers and no sound.

For a low priced unit, these are basic decent runners that lend themselves for making improvements. The motors used by K-Line in these are low voltage, meaning the typical 6 volt starting voltage of a postwar transformer will make these run fast with no train cars attached. These are best run with a postwar transformer like the 1033 with the B-U setting (0-11 volts) or a modern transformer with a zero minimum.

But if your grandson opens the transformer full throttle, they will fly off the track. The 1033 is good here with the 11 volt top.

You might also want to consider the RMT version of this loco, their Bang S-4. Walter made some improvements to the motors (they run slower the the K-Line versions), included a basic horn and have LED front/rear headlights and marker lights that are directionally operating. The worst thing I can say about the RMT version is the die cast couplers are stiff and prone to derailing the lead car of a train on 027 curves unless the car is heavier with die cast trucks.

The RMT S-4 is no longer in stock from RMT and prices have crept upwards on these, but they can still be found under $100 if you look.

The K-Line engine makes a little more of a "growl" sound due to the dual motors than does the RMT version. Though your grandson will likely not even notice.

If not having sound in the K-Line S-2 bothers you, a Lionel operating horn shed will work fine, or the RMC Sound Station will provide a whole variety of push button sounds your grandson would love.

K-line made a good number of Licensed sets, and this is where your 2333 S-2 is from.

K-1517 Hershey's Work Train was headed by the 2333 (in a milk chocolate color).

This set was cataloged in 1995.

These S-2 engines were made from the tooling of the Marx S-3 engines (one of the best engines Marx made). The trucks, and motors were K-Line's creation, and they are fairly trouble free, but give the wheels a hit of oil and the nylon gears a small hit of 

grease.  As noted they will take off like a rocket.

K-Lin also made Hershey's sets with a MP-15, Alco A-A set, 3006 Steam Engine, and another S-2 2323, in dark chocolate.

Enjoy.

Ken