Original Lionel 260E

I have one. It is a great engine, but I don't run it often due to my lack of a layout. It is fairly reliable though, like most prewar/postwar engines with E-Units. 

The biggest thing to watch out for is zinc pest. The wheels are notorious for that, and I wouldn't be surprised if the frames get it too (I know the 262e's do, but can't remember about these). Other than that, just watch for typical wear/condition issues that you would expect on an engine that is nearly 90 years old. 

Another note: different eras had different features. Mine (a black and green one) has an e-unit with a chugger, though many were build without the chugger. Some of the grey ones have whistles. I think some of the real early black and green ones had the pendulum reverse unit, but I could be wrong about that too.

@Fendermain posted:

What are the things to watch out for when purchasing an original?  

Fendermain

Are you a TCA member? I penned a couple of articles in July-October 2018 Quarterly on these locos.  Some wheels, some frames, some steam chests, some boiler fronts and some tender front castings have been noted to have Zinc -pest. Other than possibly wiring, brushes and oil...thats it really.

When searching for an original 260E look at the engine frame for warping as i have heard that can be a problem as well luckily mine does not have any problems and has the chugger that works.

The chugger back in the day must have annoyed many mothers while dad chuckled !

Great information guys. Thank you

Rob,  I was a TCA member for about a decade and made it to York once.  When future York trips did not appear possible, I let my membership lapse.  That was about 15 yrs. ago

Fendermain

@Fendermain posted:

Great information guys. Thank you

Rob,  I was a TCA member for about a decade and made it to York once.  When future York trips did not appear possible, I let my membership lapse.  That was about 15 yrs. ago

Fendermain

Ah OK.... the TCA is more than York....  The Quarterly and library are valuable tools.

@Rob English posted:

Ah OK.... the TCA is more than York....  The Quarterly and library are valuable tools.

Right you are sir!  My railroad hobby interest diminished during that period of absence also.  Hanging out here has rekindled that spirit as it were.  Perhaps I should contact the TCA and reconnect.

Fendermain