Steam Locomotive Buying Opinions

Seems to me the price on the Challenger is quite high for a ten year old engine. Most of the problems reported here are about the smoke units not working but obviously due to many reasons. Some have no problems.

I have a MTH Big Boy put together using an older engine and tender shell along with a new sound file. It has whistle steam. Stack steam has been set to low to not obliterate the whistle steam. I suspect the next release will look and sound much like this one.

Pete

I would forget about the potential “resale value “ of any hobby items you buy. Often, the return is pennies on the dollar. Buy what you like! JohnA

Eric Trains on YouTube has a review of both locomotives. He has the Challenger from 10 years ago plus the newest Challenger plus a review of a current MTH Restoration Big Boy. You may wish to review.

Thanks for the replies. Resale is the least of my concerns, but wondered if it might be a factor.

I've been watching too many of Eric's videos. That's what got me into this mess in the first place.

No matter which locomotive you purchase, they can be restored if there are problems down the road. I’ll lean toward Lionel’s Challenger do to the great sound system, I think 3 speakers, special smoking effects, detailed deck plate, great whistle, beautiful styling, great runner, I’ve owned several of them, few issues. With Gunrunner John, Alex M., Harmonyards repairs, either locomotive will be great. You could buy both and have a world of fun. Happy Railroading Everyone

@CyrilW posted:

I've been watching too many of Eric's videos. That's what got me into this mess in the first place.

Same here. I figured out quite a bit of stuff I didn't know I needed.

Cyril,

  Since you are starting out, smaller locomotives, like steam switchers, can provide enjoyment too, and can be more affordable.

Good luck with your plans.

Tom

I can tell you this, as someone who takes a bunch of these locomotive apart, the latest gearbox in Legacy steam is not as good as the MTH gearbox. The TMCC version of the locomotive uses the same bullet proof gearbox that MTH does. When Lionel went to Legacy they made the gearbox needlessly complex so it has more failure points. From a pure reliability/ruggedness standpoint the MTH Premier model or an early 2000s made in Korea TMCC model is better than any Legacy version.

I have a Lionel Legacy Big Boy 4014 First Run and a Lionel Vision Line Challenger 3985. I have a full Legacy 990 system for my bedroom floor layout. I did pre order the MTH Big Boy final run when it was first announced but then cancelled since i wanted all my UP engines to run on legacy control. Also, I dont know if MTH will ever have a remote operation again. Too many weirdos selling them at high prices on ebay.