I've noticed a rather startling difference in the running qualities of the newest Lionel F3s, specifically the IC set...and that of the older CC offerings . The new units appear to run faster at any given voltage, and operate smoother, and quieter without the "crackling" sound commonly associated with the 2010 runs of these engines. Anyone else picking up on this? There's also a big difference in the horn as well, not the least of which is that the board is mounted to far off to the right on the frame, and pushes hard against the carbody...forcing it slightly outward. OTOH, the new horn has better operation with older Lionel transformers, and sounds MUCH better. I reattached the board on my IC with sticky foam. Of all the CC F3s, this is far and away, my favorite.
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