What can be done to improve 'basic' steel PW ALCOs?

[pgtr]

What can be done to improve 'basic' steel PW ALCOs?

I'm talking about the 202, 204, 205, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 215, 216, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222,

I know not all are the same obviously but many are VERY cheap/basic. Permutations of no E-unit, light, horn, front coupler, magnetraction, feaux underbelly, lacking weight etc. are examples. I'm looking for ideas/suggestions/tips on how some of the more basic models could be 'enhanced', customized etc for more 'goodies'.

Could the bodies be installed on a diecast base? Do many of the parts interchange from the better models? Modern upgrade kits that might add horn, electronic e-unit etc...?

Thanks

[jpelosi2002]

I've got a Texas Special ALCO, I think 221 is the number. It came with a ballast weight in the rear for traction. I also have a Santa Fe version, 230 or something or other that has magnetraction and a horn. Well, I took the horn and magnatraction truck from the Santa Fe and mounted it all in the Texas Special. Then I took an E-unit from a 44 tonner that's seen better days (future restoration project) and threw that in too. The result is a nice little operating diesel that can pull quite a load with the ballast weight AND the magnetraction. I did all this because I have a steep incline on my layout and the Texas Special couldn't make it up while hauling a load, and I just happen to like the Texas Special more than the Santa Fe.

[brianel027]

As with the post above about the Texas Sepcial, sure it can be done. But there is the cost factor to weigh in. I believe Dallee Electronics makes some modern circuit board reverse units that can handle the open frame Lionel motor, but they're something like $45 each. You could also buy circuit board sound units of differnt types. None of this would defitely worth doing to any of those single axle drive Alcos made by Lionel.

But if you happen to have a big parts box and a bunch of junkers around, that makes it pretty economical to scavange parts and make improvements. Lights are easy enough to add. Add weight to the frame and shell over the motor area will improve pulling power without adding magnetraction. If you're into repainting and have a beat up shell to begin with, a good paint job can really highlight some of the simple cast-in details that are aready there. I do this kind of thing all the time.

And for around $50 you can buy an MRC 312 Sound Station that will give you sounds for any engine you own. Granted it won't be Railsounds, but it won't be as expensive either as adding sound boards to every loco.