Lionel Challenger - Safe Purchase?

Most folks here rank the Legacy version of the Lionel Challenger among the BEST locomotive in their roster.  Don't see how you can go wrong, as I have heard no "problems" per se with this locomotive... only accolades.

Best of luck!

David

Harold,

I bought the 6-11211 in Nov 2011 and had to send it to Lionel for repairs right after I first tried to run it, and then again a few weeks later. Lionel paid for the shipping both ways each time, and kept me informed of the repair and return status via email very diligently. Since then it has been running fine and it is one of my favorite locomotives.

I know it is a hassle to have something that doesn't work right off the bat and then a few weeks later, but Lionel made the repair process about as painless as could be expected. And the locomotive certainly is a fine model.

I now have five Legacy steam locos and seven diesels, and I don't believe I will buy any other type (than Legacy) in the future.

Good luck!

Alex

hclarke, I think that you have seen the other thread on this subject, "Vision Line Challenger Opinions," where most views were in favour. I can't say from my own experience that this would be a completely safe purchase but the main issues people have reported have been addressed by Lionel. 

It is safe with a warranty, so buy it from an authorized dealer. You get two years from date of purchase on a Vision Line loco and they pick up the shipping. Beware of the 3 years from date of manufacture rule which means no warranty after 3 years. I am not sure if this applies to Vision Line, you should check that out.

Without a warranty I wouldn't pay over $1,000. I own two of these Vision Line Challengers. They are fantastic. 

One of the BEST Engines Lionel has ever made. Operation and Sound BOTH! I wouldn't sell it for twice the price I paid. The only problem you will have, is finding one at a decent price or NOT finding one at all!!!

FREDSTRAINS

I just purchased mine from Eastside Trains and it is a great running sounding engine.  I have ran it the past two months without a problem.  Smokes like a chimney on a cold winter day, from the stack,whistle and blowdown feature.  Great puller,at 3 lbs. 13 oz according to CTT.  I think Eastside still has the grey version of this.  I got the last coal burner in black.