Since new Flyer toolings are hit or miss...

I don't know of the ALCos are done with original tooling, but if they are or not, reissues of the classic sets would be nice.  I though they did the Defender set quite well. 

I have the Silver Flash reissue from 1995.  It's tied for favorite along with the C&O set.

Rusty

Are the modern drive-trains any good? I have several Geeps, PAs and EP-5s from the MPC era. Those warmed-over drive trains did not impress me.

The new drive train design (with the vertical can motor) for the 'traditional' locos is very good with smooth, quiet operation (e.g., DRG&W PA, UP SD-9, the second EP-5, Defender GP-7, etc.) . While we are voting, I would suggest the 1956 NH "Clipper" set as a strong first candidate. It is among the more scarce Gilbert AlCo PA sets and would be a better seller than a "Silver Streak". Also, I fear that Lionel would cut a corner and do a silver-painted Streak rather than a chromed set.

Bob

Can't speak for any recent 21st Century "classic" Flyer releases, but the drive used in the SD70's and ES44's runs very well.

Rusty

And while we're on the subject, the Flyer Northern offered in SP&S would make a fine looking model. The engine is close, a headlight lens/number-board overlay would slip right over the Flyer headlight, and the tender is spot on. 

And a set of SP&S heavyweights in Pullman green would be the perfect compliment.

It would have to be chromed to be interesting.  They used the same technique on the new Flyer Mint car but in gold.  The new Alco shells are all thats left of the Gilbert Tooling.  Perhaps they could use Gilbert truck sides again with the simulated center wheels...rather than the new 6 wheel trucks.  

Does the can motor on old Gilbert Power truck design from the past not function well?

American Models did D&H PA's  in a chrome finish that really looked nice. Also a streamlined Hudson.