New Lionel Scale Hudson

Jerry, which 'new' Lionel Hudson are you referring to please?  They have produced several different models since the remake of the 700E

The one shown in the Vol.2 catalog 2024.

My thoughts are this would be a nice Locomotive for the price points, however, it’s not the size of the older 773 Hudson’s, or the scale Hudson’s. It will negotiate tighter curves and the sounds would be good. It is not the size of the one mentioned. Sorry.
Your local hobby shop would be able to give you a better description. Good Question.

@Jerry Rubin posted:

The one shown in the Vol.2 catalog 2024.

Larry has hit this one on the head, …..this is NOT a scale model,……it’s a traditional sized locomotive, ……think more along the size of a postwar 2046,…..you’re not going to get a new scale sized Hudson at that price point,….

Pat

Assuming you're talking about the LionMaster Hudsons in the catalog, they're not scale, but they're larger than traditional sized Hudsons like the 2046. Sizewise LionMaster engines are in between traditional and scale. Traditional Hudsons are about 20 1/2" long, the LionMaster Hudsons are 22" long, and the scale Hudsons are about 24 1/2" long. LionMaster engines also have a good bit more detail than traditional engines, but not as much as scale engines.

As far as operation, the LionMaster Hudsons in the 2024 vol. 2 catalog will be far superior. They have a DC can motor, which runs smoother than the older AC Pulmor motor found in the 18005. The newer engines also have cruise control, which the 18005 doesn't have, and will also have far, far better sounds. And, importantly, the 18005 did not have even the older TMCC remote control, whereas the new LionMaster Hudsons will be equipped with the latest LionChief Plus 2 remote control electronics, plus Bluetooth control.

Lionel hasn't made many engines in its LionMaster series in recent years, but they're great engines and strike a nice balance with size and detail that's ideal for many operators, noteably those who don't have bigger layouts with large radius track. They're also large enough that they can be run with many of the scale sized cars produced today.

When last produced, this Lionmaster Hudson model was highly praised and sold out rather quickly, I believe. I didn’t get one then but ordered one this time. As things go, the price tag is pretty good, considering what Lionel locomotives are going for these days. I expect to be pleased when I get my hands on it.

I ordered the Dreyfuss inspired silver/gray color scheme. I've always heard good things about them so I am willing to give one a go. I prefer traditional sized equipment so it should be a good fit though much more highly detailed then anything else I have.

If you want a truly scale Hudson, I'd wait until next year. With it being the 125th anniversary of Lionel. I think you can safely bet money on a scale Hudson being offered. The VISIONLINE 700E has never been re-offered. Seems to me to be the best time to run it again.

Of course I am just speculating. So don't take anything I said at the end as 100%

I did a review of the old tmcc lionmaster Hudson, I did a few comparison shots against my scale Hudson that might help. I'm a huge fan of the lionmaster line from lionel, good detail, good price point and great for people who can't fit large curves on their layout.

Thank you for all the great information. My best, Jerry