Value of TMCC F3 Set

Depends on what you want. You can always find something cheaper and new technology. Now, if you like it and they look nice and do not have an issue with running TMCC engines versus Legacy engines then get it.

Actually, IMO, $450 is somewhat inflated, I'd start in the $350-375 range and I doubt I'd be willing to go more than $400 for that set.

 

Not exactly sure what is meant by issues with running TMCC engines vs Legacy.

 

I would expect these engines to work, whether using a TMCC system or a Legacy system, just that they would have the technology of 11 years ago.

 

It does say they have Odyssey. I have an early Odyssey engine, and even though it was returned to the factory, it still has the 'lurch'. But it does do speed control, it can creep if need be. I would call it 'good enough' or 'consistent with the technology of the time'. The Railsounds will be what is was in 2004.

 

I would expect that access to the battery would be a pain in the rear, and you would want to run them batteryless if you run them occasionally, so you would not get shutdown sounds.

 

That price seems a bit high. I would peg it at no more than $250 for a powered and +$100 for the dummy.

 

If WP is your railroad, then up your willingness. If its 'just another engine', then hold the line.

 

You could have a pretty nice new or used Legacy engine for $450.

You're a cheapskate Mike, I was willing to go a bit more.

 

Dream,

 

     I look to pay the following for TMCC locos:

 

          Diesel TMCC: $300 to $250

          Sm. Steam: $300 to $450

          Lg. Steam: $500 to $650

 

    For these F3 engines I would say walk away at $450 unless Western Pacific is special to you but at least get them down to $400.

 

JohnB

If they were Santa Fe.... I might pay $450

I don't recall the details of why, but there were also replacement shells offered for this set when new.

 

You might need to determine the differences and whether you are OK with whatever variant is included with this sale.

 

I couldn't find the original Lionel announcement on their site, but there is a PDF instruction manual on how to replace the shells.

 

I won't post the exact link to the source material, as I know that would get this post deleted, but if you look at this Google search (should be the 1st search result), there is a brief discussion of same from years ago.

 

-Dave

Gents, thank you all very much for the input.  Was exactly the kind of feedback I had hoped to get. 

 

Sometimes I pull the trigger too soon And end up overpaying.  I agree that $450 in hindsight does seem steep.  I wouldn't have flinched if it was ABBA, that would have been a good deal.  

 

Thanks again.  In this instance I chose to pass as the seller wouldn't go any lower.  Fair enough.