Lionel 28069 NYC Niagara w/ GGD Empire State Express

Nick, Absolutely Besutiful Set Up. Do those cars have People Figures? I have heard of GGD, however have never seen there cars in person. Thanks Again..

Very nice and prototypical also. When the ESE service began to expand, the Hudsons were no longer able to maintain the train schedules with 10 or 12, or more ESE passenger cars, thus the L4b dual service Mohawks were occasionally used, the Niagaras of course, and then the E7 diesel units. 

Thanks Larry! Although some of them do look goofy, there are definitely passengers on this train, along with appropriate interior furniture and fixtures for each different type of car.

 

Jack, can't seem to find where I had originally read it to check the number, but I recall the Niagaras were actually able to cut something like whole half hours off the premier trains with efficiency rivaling that of the encroaching diesels. It's no wonder they "bumped" many a Hudson, they really were the epitome of steam power on the NYC.

 

Meanwhile, the ESE Hudsons were looking a bit shabby on the Mercury:

 

That definitely is a nice combo. That engine is a beauty. The Niagara is my favorite New York Central steam power. Maybe for me a Railking size Imperial one might be suitable. 

Hey Nick,

That is a beautiful combination. Those cars are beautiful and the Lionel Niagara is my absolute favorite. Alex Malliae upgraded mine to 4 chuff and improved smoke. It's a beaut now for sure. He did the upgrade about a year and a half ago and it still runs great.

Also I read, the Niagara's time from NY to Chicago was under 16 hours. The fastest of all. The record still stands today. The diesels then and now can't match it. When I find the book I'll post the name here.

GGD makes really nice pass cars from what I've seen. Do they work on 054 curves or are they strictly 072 and larger?

Good luck with the set.

Mike R

GGD passenger cars are strictly 072 and larger, do to their 21" scale length.