...And so it is that my Big Illinois Central Lionel 2363 CC F3 set has turned out to be my fastest F3 of any era, and the fastest twin motored machine of all of 'em. She was quick out of the box and has gotten even quicker with break-in mileage. Been running a Lionel 1033 for this rudimentary operation and will, until sometime later, when a serious layout, with larger power supplies, will once again be possible. I have a Lionel LW 125 watt unit, but usually don't use it because of the high start voltage. Anyway the issue popped out of the bag, with the inability of my CC Virginian FM to get around with any kind of speed; the IC F3 being fine in this regard. Well, surprise ! I took the FM to a friend's place and we ran it on his LW. BOOM....off it went in good order, like every self respecting Train Master should. Went back home and hooked up my old LW. Same results! Then I decided to try the Big IC F3 set with this new wattage source. Blamm-O ! Instant warp speed...waaay more than needed, but would sure come in handy with passenger cars. The 2363 is now off in some Metroliner / Acela /TEE type of alternate universe....as she zips along at about 200 SMPH at 18v ! While certainly adequate for speed before...she just needed a little kick in the pants to bring out that famous Lionel Rocket Action Power !
Original Post
