What kind of pulling power do the newest Lionel Consolidation locomotives have .Could they easily pull a 15-20 car train for 45-60 minutes. Thanks
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I own one of these locos and - due to a smaller layout - usually run 10-12 car freight trains at most, and the 2-8-0 has no problems. Consequently given its weight and the fact that it has rubber traction tires like many locos these days, I'm reasonably confident that it could pull your desired number of cars.
I think the little consolidation steamer could easily pull 15-20 new freight cars, Lionel, MTH, Weaver, Atlas O, with the new trucks. However, if your running older postwar freight cars, maybe 7 or 8 do to friction. Another variable is your track, tubular or flat rail? On my layout with Atlas O track, flat solid rail, this little engine can pull 17 to 22 freight cars with no problem. Then, will it climb a 2 percent grade pulling these cars, I’ll have to check that out. Finally, on a level layout, Yes. Happy Railroading Everyone 
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I've pulled twenty modern cars and a caboose around with my Lionel PRR H10, including my 2.5% grade. it should have the same pulling power as the 2-8-0 from a couple years later. This one is a favorite as it has the whistle steam and swinging bell. 
