I am thinking of buying either a 402E or an 1835E. I am going to the York show in April and I am hunting these 2 locomotives. Which one in your opinion is a better loco?? I like both equally, but the 402E does have dual motors and is electric. The 1835E is a steam single motor loco. But, it does have a whistle tender, if I find one with a 1835W tender. The 402E just comes in mojave color and is 17 1/2 inches long, and the 1835E with tender is about 24 to 25 inches long. Price is of no concern at this point. Just wanted to know which is a better performing loco, better collector value loco, and is worth the money to spend on it. I like steam locomotives and electrics the same. But, I do not have a dual motored loco as of now. If I was to pick one, I would go with the 402E. What you think? Thanks and any info on both these loco would help. Thanks again.
I have both of these standard gauge beauties. Im not sure one is "better" than the other.
The 1835 is small and light as standard gauge steam locos go and does not have a ton of pulling power. Using my standard pulling performance method the 1835 struggles with two state cars, lots of wheel spinning getting going. The 402 and its cousin the 408 are the most powerful of Lionel's standard gauge offerings. They will pull 4 state cars OK.. Indeed, these were supplied with four car state sets as even the 381E cannot pull for of them
So, its all up to you! If you can swing it try and find a 408E even if it needs restoration, they are great looking/runnig items. 402s are less money and esier to fine though.
Generally speaking in operation, the twin motor engine will provide greater satisfaction when used with 200 series cars; the single motor engine when used with 500 series cars.
I know that I might not have enough $$$ for a 408E, But I do have enough for a 402E or 1835E. After what you have said, I think I might go with a 402E for its pure pulling power. I have all 500 series freight cars. I have no 200 series cars yet!! I already have a 385E which is similar to a 1835E. So, therefore I will go with a dual motor electric 402E. How much do they run for at train shows?? Train shows like York, PA's big one in April and October. Ebay, I have been watching them, but no good ones that don't need restoration. I need something in C7 condition and all original. I will be quite a chase for one. Thanks for the help.
I have a 402E and it is great. It has been in my wife's family since it was purchased by her Grandparents for her Uncle in 1927. It is a very powerful engine. I set it up Christmas time and it pulls the passenger cars that came with the set, plus 3 newer Lionel Christmas box cars with no problem. I can't say anything negative about this engine. Just praises.
John
Thank you for your input. I am leaning more towards a 402E after what I have heard. Seems like a pretty good loco. I will be keeping my eyes open for one of them. Thanks everyone.
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