CTT Review of Lionel AC-9

[Anonymous]

Has CTT ever done a review of the Lionel AC-9 2-8-8-4? What issue is it in? Thanks.

[Bob Keller]

Nope. If Lionel ships us one, we'll be glad to, though.

[Anonymous]

I've owned my share of AC-9's in HO over the years and had an opportunity to do some work on a Precision Scale O scale brass AC-9 two years ago. A local club has one member that owns a LIonel AC-9 that I have watched in action. The operational quality of the locomotive is far superior to the $3,200 brass engine and the detail and accuracy of the dimensions are extremely close to scale. Fit, finish, lettering, all superb. From a distance of about 2-3 feet it would be nearly impossible to differentiate between the brass loco and the die-cast Lionel.

Needless to say I am very impressed with the locomotive. It's a big, tall, heavy steamer, and the elegant skyline casing over the boiler that gives the engine the streamlined look makes the engine appear even longer than it is. I'd give the loco a 9.8 out of 10. If the engine was a two rail model with scale couplers it would rate a 10.

[wrmcclellan]

So Bob is really hoping that Lionel is reading this post!

Regards,
Roy

[Bob Keller]

All the manufacturers have an open door to send stuff in for review.There are only a handful of locomotives sent in since 1996 (when I started doing reviews) that have not been in the magazine. So if Brown delivers it, there is probably a 99% change it'll be in the magazine.

[Anonymous]

What happenes to the locos after wards?

Donate them? Keep them? I would like to know if I could get a donation for my club.

Thanks!