lionel 33

The early (1913) model used the "U" shaped motor, and the Super Motor didn't get used until 1923.  As far as desirability, and higher value, it is in the Color, and the stamping.  Rarest would be Type 5 painted Midnight Blue made for Montgomery Ward, with Rarity of 7, valued VG-$700; EX-$1200, LN-$1600, with the next rarest being the Type 2 at Rarity of 7.  The others range in Rarity from 3-5.

Doc,

You had better whisper when you say the 33 came with a Super Motor. You and I know this to be true. There are those who will condemn you to eternal dam*ation for saying such a thing. Believe me, I know this to be a true statement. 

Pappy,  I don't think Greenberg would state that it came with a Super Motor, unless it actually did.  There are a few people that have the earlier version, being Pre Super Motor, and I have seen two different styles of motor, that have slightly different side frames on the motor.  From what I have found, there are eight 33's using the early motor, only difference is in colors/stampings, and two later versions using the Super Motor, and the same with the color or stamping.  As far as rarity, and high value, it is strictly in the color and stamp, as I posted before.

This one is a nyc in olive paint wise I would say its fair due to missing a half dollar  size of paint off one side and from my pocket guide is the least desirable color. He wants to get $175 for the 33 and he has a 1700e with 3 cars in a little better shape but wants $395. He's ebay pricing.  which im positive is to high for either So looks like I need more information didn't realize their are so many variations . What are the different types I'm assuming the stamping is just the # or is that also including the lettering. Bad thing is I have to go through a middle man as its on consignment at he local pawn shop.

Max,

Honestly, I would walk away. There are far too many trains out there to be hosed this time around. Just remember this, "There Will Always Be More Trains". I know of a few good sellers, shoot me a email. My address is in my profile.

I know there going to sit because other than me I don't know of anyone in the area collecting prewar o or standard.  just wish I knew what else this guys dad had in his collection. And the people I do know who have prewar are selling not buying. Ya I know way overpriced from the little I know. I don't suppose there are any good books on variations of standard 

Max,

There are quite a few books that have been printed over the years.  IMHO The best is a new release by Bruce Greenberg covering Lionel Std Gauge. It covers almost every known variation, it runs $100.00. You can find it and many older releases on amazon.com. Most persons like myself have been collecting for years and buying related reference material along the way. Most knowledge is learned along the way as much about this hobby is unwritten.

Thx's bruce's book helped me identify the loco 1918-23 with type 3 motor and type 4 reverse.  I didn't realize there were so many variations of parts. Thought they would just be either a manual switch, e unit or no reverse as well as either slide shoe , super motor or build a loco  . Lots of great information

I can't find any attraction to a 33.  They are always beat up, tilting to one side, ...  Just, awkward looking.  What did they run with?  

? Has anyone seen a late 18-23 with latch couplers as its the only odd thing I seen on it other than the latches for the couplers are gone. Or and early 23-24 with type 3 motor w/ type 4 reverse. I Inquired if he had more standard gauge maybe I'll get lucky on something else he has.