Lionel 385 and Lionel 384

Those prices are not out of line.  Especially if they run good.  I could find a spot for the 385 if I had the dough.  Can't beat a sound 385.  

Thank you for your thoughts. I likely am leaning toward the 385--more money to build a consist--but looks great pulling a string of 500-series freight cars. Some of your videos of your 385 got me looking into this model. Thanks again. 

Be careful with 384's with that much warp. Weak point is the front attachment for the BAL, prone to breaking off and new frames are $140 or so

Yeah, the 384 looks tweaked, and if it wobbles, well, that's your decision.  I just went ahead and looked at the 385 EBay listing.  I like that dark gunmetal gray look with the copper trim.  Mine is the lighter one with nickel trim.  But is that the correct tender?  It has silver trim and is a 390 style tender, not a 385.  It would seem more logical that the engine has a chugger and the tender doesn't have a whistle, because that style tender usually doesn't, and that style engine usually does.  Maybe you got that misconstrued?  Also, it doesn't say it runs, but if it was restored I would hope so.  Maybe you asked, I always do.

As stated above, best to avoid ANY warped frame 384's because of the inherent structural (front motor mount) weakness!

Thank you everyone. The seller said that the chugger had been removed. Also said that it runs. I did not notice the tender trim--probably focused on the journals and Lionel Lines plate. I was surprised about there being a whistle, but assumed it was a 385TW (looked like what was pictured in Doyle or Greenberg). The 385TW and 390 tenders look fairly close to my eye. I actually like the look of this style of tender over the boxier tender usually seen paired with the 385. I think I am going to bite the bullet--if there are issues, at least there is eBay protection. 

I think the 385 came with 2 different size tenders. long or short. My 385 tender had zinc pest and needed replacing. It was a long tender. MTH made a short one only at the time. Purchased a new casting somewhere else. My 385E is part of the Washington Special set. Nickel trim. Chugger and Whistle. circa 1936.

Yeah, I just checked my book.  I probably should have first, considering it's two feet in front of me.  It looks like the 384 style tender was used the first 3 years. Interesting it has copper journals and nickel trim.  And a whistle.  I wouldn't doubt it is original, I am by no means an authority.  I hope it is a good runner for you.  Nice looking engine.

I just listed a nice 385E in the For Sale section. You might want to check it out for comparison. Welcome to the world of Standard Gauge. Warning: It can be contagious!!