Question about Lionel F3 # 2368 B&O

[Anonymous]

Thinking about adding this to my collection. Question is I see different shades of blue on the shells from dark blue to Tourquise. Is this color varation normal for this engine? If not what is the correct color of blue for the F3 # 2368? [:D]Thanks.

[rlplionel]

Greenberg's postwar guide to Lionel Trains states the 2368 typically has an unpainted blue body with gray-painted roof and white-painted nose and upper quarter. The variations of blue you are seeing may be due to fading over time. Just make sure that the blue part of the shell is unpainted before you buy. See exception below.

Greenberg also noted that there is one scarce variation of a 2368 with a gray body mold painted blue. This was conjectured to be a Lionel Service Station replacement body.