k line hudson

I think thats the high end of the "ballpark". They usually go for around$450-$500

There was a recent spike in value probably due to all the interest these models got a little while ago in the big K-Line vs. Lionel scale Hudson debate. $550-$650 was about what they were going for then, but things seem to have cooled off so I agree $550 is pretty high, especially for the "less desirable" cab number. Doing an advanced search with "completed listings" checked off will also show you this.

Just why would this be a less desirable road number?

I think it's because that engine number only has "Rail Sounds". I have the K-line Hudson and it's a beautifully detailed engine. Much better than most. I think I paid about $400 for mine some years ago. I only model Milwaukee but I just had to have one of these engines for display. Don

Both the 5343 and 5344 came with whistle/bell or TMCC and RS4. The 5343 that Gerald refers to is the latter. There is another on the bay now with only Signalsounds for 50 bucks less. To some 5343 might be more desirable especially if you might want more than one J1. Everyone has done a 5344, not many have done a 5343. To each his own.

Pete

I believe I paid $500 or maybe even $599 for mine. Awesome engine with the ERR cruise installed. 

We bought one (no 5344) several years ago here on the Forum with TMCC but no cruise for about $350. They have definitely risen in value since then!

Beautiful locomotive...

I think the K-Line product line has been held down in value because of the low prices we paid for them back in the good-old-days. But, if you compare the cost verses value it is no surprise to find that they are climbing in price.

That said for five hundred dollars make sure you get one with TMCC in it. As stated above they came both ways.

Jim and Norton - It's my belief that 5344 is inherently more desirable as it was the most famed J1E Hudson, real and model. This is reflected in the fact that 5344 comes up on the secondary market far less often than 5343. At least the TMCC version anyway, people really seem to be hanging on to those.

C'mon, Jim! You know why!

For the same reason N&W J 611 is a more desirable number than 602; UP 844 is more desireable than 843; NYC&HRR 999 is more desirable than 998; UP 4-4-0 119 is more desirable than 117; NKP 765 is more desirable than 762; SP 4449 is more desirable than 4448...

Gerald,

Both Hudsons listed currently on ebay are "Used" and graded "Excellent".  The price of $550 and $499 is a bit off the mark  for a used K-Line.  If you are patient, you will find a "New" one around the $500 mark either on ebay or thru one of the Clubs ( TCA, LCCA, TTOS, LOTS, etc.)  If you don't belong to any club, keep your eyes here and on ebay...HOWEVER, if you are not a ebayer....be careful who you buy from!  Make sure returns are acceptable if not satisfied withthe condition of  your purchase.  Additionally, try to get the model with the "S" on the end number.  That one will have TMCC and RS4.
Hope this helps!

Larry Williams

TCA 75-8293

Actually there is a conspiracy against Nick to keep him from locating No 5344!

quote:

There will always be a larger group of people wanting a model for its fame and or preservation than those who may simply want an additional / lesser known road number to run.

I guess you have a point there. And I guess I am one of the people that just doesn't see things the way others see them. Just how many 611's does one need?

Ugh, that too  The only one that came up on eBay after the one I bungled bidding on months ago was a Buy it Now in about the same condition (used but cosmetically new) for $449. It was snapped up almost instantly, not by me of course.

I wouldn't even say arguably Sam. They are no contest the best detailed J1e Hudson in O-Gauge at this time. People who will want to "hot rod" them with the latest sound, control, and smoke systems of their liking are best served going for the cheaper conventional versions (designated with a W in the item number) and adding everything from there.

My requirements for locomotives are only that they have TMCC and are nicely detailed so the "S" models are still perfect for me.

Exactly. Just don't say that too loudly around here...

Gerald, believe it or not the K-Line engine will negotiate 031 if you install the included longer drawbar. Looks ugly doing it but it works as do the later K-Line 18" heavyweight cars.

Pete

I had herd that K-Line made 2000 Hudsons. They figured it was New York central so they would sell. The hobbie shop by me bought two pallets to sell on close out. Thats how I got mine. I believe I paid $440 for it. LJ