Amtrak HHP-8

[casconi]

I am interested in purchasing the Amtrak HHP-8 set from the 2008 Lionel Catalong. Is this set traditional or standard O scale? The reason I ask is because the add on cars that are in the Vol 1 2010 Lionel catalog are listed under "Standard O Scale" with Dash 9 and another HHP with RailSounds.

Any help is appreciated!

[KentJJ]

One of my favorite train sets made in the last 10 years! Think you'll be pleased to know that CTT's very own Bob Keller reviewed the set in the May 2010 issue. Subscribers can read that review online by going to…

http://ctt.trains.com/Operating/Product%20Reviews/2010/03/HHP-8%20passenger%20set%20by%20Lionel.aspx

Indeed the loco and cars are undersized (length especially -- not true O scale -- 1:48), but I did not think the difference detracted from their appearance.

Kent

[casconi]

Kent, Thanks so much for your reply. I just read Bob's review. Sounds like a nice set. So it is safe to assume the add on cars and HHP-8 with RailSounds are not scale as listed in the Lionel catalog?

[KentJJ]

Bear in mind that precise O scale (1:48) and Lionel's "Standard O scale" label are vastly different. Lionel has historically used the "Standard O" term to distinguish their equipment made to a slightly larger proportion than traditional postwar models. These "Standard O" items also tend have more add-on details. With that said, the Amfleet starter set cars DO fit the Lionel "Standard O scale" branding. However, they are not modeled to precise O (1:48) scale standards.

Hope this helps

Kent

[casconi]

Yes, this certainly helps!

Thanks Kent!