Question for the experts, got a 257 recently with what I think is an original frame however, want to make sure. Outside of the obvious repaired pilot syndrome ( which this one is intact- appears not repaired) the only stamping on the frame is the part number 257-19 followed by the words Newton New York inside a small rectangle. The marking is located on the top of the frame, inside the boiler area, on the long side. At some point in time the loco was worked on since the headlight wire was unhooked and coiled up inside the type 7 motor.
The bigger question would be, did Lionel do their own castings or sub out to a foundry? Thanks for any help on this
John
