I run traditional-sized stuff with tubular track and curves ranging from 34"-42" and 27"-34" on the other, but have been able to find plenty of locomotives for my toy train layout. I have TMCC as well as powermasters so I can run conventional engines with my CAB-1. We also put up 4 loops of Fastrack around the Christmas tree with 36" and 48" curves.
I'm getting tired of an all-black line-up of steam engines and have the bug to buy a blue B&O steamer. I see my choices as a WBB O27 Hudson, a WBB J-Class, or a Lionel LionChief B&O Pacific.
If I went with the WBB O27 Hudson, I'd expect to put in an ERR sound board and probably even a TMCC board. Near as I can tell, with both, that puts my all-in cost right in line with the LionChief. I like the LionChief option because it comes with its own RC device which is a real bonus for my youngest plus nieces and nephews to use on either the permanent or Christmas layout. With an upgraded WBB, I'd have to buy another CAB-1.
So, it's pretty close to a toss-up, but the LionChief avoids the hassle of me doing the upgrade, etc. And since the kids love our Thomas RC set, I see this as a real nice add over TMCC 1.0 for our purposes.
From the pictures, it looks like the B&O LionChief Pacific is the same engine and tender as the one in the 2000 catalog, but it also appears like they're painting it 2-color like the Scale President Harrison version. Is that accurate?
Anyone see any other pro's/con's?
