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I noticed in the new Lionel catalog that one of the Lion Chief Plus offerings is the NS First Responders GP-38. For whatever reason my eye keeps being drawn back to that very attractive paint scheme. I’m also a LC+ fan so was thinking of ordering one.

Question: Anyone out there own (and have pics they can post) of any the First Responders locos and/or rolling stock? One of the nice things about these is I see that Lionel, MTH, and Atlas all have a nice selection of rolling stock that can be mixed and matched to build a FR consist. Lots of choices.

Thanks for any feedback.

Last edited by johnstrains
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As a "First Responder in Training" (I am an EMT and Firefighter in training and running calls) I have one of the MTH Tank Cars.

My short experience (joined as a volunteer EMT/Firefighter on 9/11/17) has given me a tremendous new appreciation for what all responders do. The training involved is extensive and intensive. It takes a lot to really "wow" and "impress" me and all of these fine folks have. Even more so are the college and High School students - all going to the top colleges, varsity athletes, fantastic students - that volunteer as firefighters and EMTs. A bunch of really top notch kids. I truly cannot put to words just how impressed I am with all of them.

Last edited by SJC
scott.smith posted:

There will be a slight color difference between the Lionel and MTH. Lionel decided to change the red slightly because they thought it would look better.

 

Thanks, Scott. Exactly the type of feedback I’m looking for. In fact I was just looking at the Lionel NS tank cars and some of the MTH rolling stock (the animation car for one) and was wondering about color match. It may be best to stick with one manufacturer on these. Or at least get a chance to see them in person before purchasing.

 Good tip!

I bought all the MTH Premier cars and engines plus the smoking tank car in Railking. I have seriously considered buying some of the Lionel cars and mixing it with the 911 engine so I would have two different First Responders trains to run at the same time. I think this is the best paint scheme in the last 20 years for a set. I was speaking to a person at Lionel and they told me that they changed the color to be more fire engine like. I wouldn't mind getting the Lionel helicopter car to go with my train but it's not offered separately.

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Scott Smith

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The color on the Lionel engine is a pinkish color not red at all. Nothing like the real engine color. MTH is correct. I don't think Lionel changed it I think it was a mistake and that is just a story, JMO   I have the Atlas box cars and the MTH flats and tank cars flats and both MTH engines.  Very nice set. Popular a shows on the modular layout.  I have 2 MTH Premier box  cars for sell new $50 ea plus shipping. Lower 48 states only. 

DOC posted:

The color on the Lionel engine is a pinkish color not red at all. Nothing like the real engine color. MTH is correct. I don't think Lionel changed it I think it was a mistake and that is just a story, JMO   I have the Atlas box cars and the MTH flats and tank cars flats and both MTH engines.  Very nice set. Popular a shows on the modular layout.  I have 2 MTH Premier box  cars for sell new $50 ea plus shipping. Lower 48 states only. 

Thanks for that. Thinking I definitely want to see things in person before I buy. If the color difference isn't too obvious maybe will be able to mix Lionel and MTH rolling stock. We'll see.

Also noticed that Lionel has released a fire car to go with this set. It's similar to the old PW fireman's car with flashing light.

DOC posted:

Yep just like the PW car. If You see the Lionel and MTH engines side by side its really a bad color on the Lionel model. Again JMO. 

Doc, Thanks again for input.

Despite what may be an 'off-color' for the Lionel that's probably the direction I'll go. Reality is I run 100 percent conventional so buying the MTH loco is not viable for me. I'd be paying for all those features I'd never use.

I'm still going to run by some LHSs so I can see in person before buying.

I have a quick follow up question on this set as well.  If you watch this video First Responders Alternating Front Lights at the 6:03 point you will see the ditch lights alternately flashing back and forth which I love for this Engine.  After much digging I can't seem to find out who made this engine which is distinctive due to the yellow rectangular block on the roof of the cab.  Can anyone tell me who made this engine and if either the of the Lionel or MTH versions of this engine have this alternating flashing ditch light feature as well?

Thanks in advance and much appreciated.

Last edited by LeighL

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OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Ste 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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