As others have posted, the plastic Shays have their issues, gears on the Bachmann models and noisy operation/hard to assemble with the old MDC/Roundhouse models. About the only plastic geared model I recommend to others is the old AHM/Rivarossi Heisler in both 2 and 3 truck models. After that is brass from PFM/United. Expect to spend from $200 to $300 for a generic 2 or 3 truck PFM Shay. The older runs are usually more affordable that the named ones like the Cherry River 3 truck model. The Heisler and Climaxes from that same importer/builder are also nearly bullet proof, easy to remotor with a can as I did with mine. I used a Canon CN22 in my 2 truck PFM Shay. Pic below, no issues with worm alignment with my set up, smooth and quiet running. If one is able to solder up a rear bearing support between the motor and the worm shaft, that would be better but my set up works fine. For West Virginia/Virgina area logging, look for the book by Wiliam Warden, excellent one that covers that area. Or for the ultimate, pick up Steam and Thunder in the Timber by Michael Koch. Probably the most definitive book on steam era logging from coast to coast. Mike the Aspie
Silly NT's, I have Asperger's Syndrome