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Chip, two suggestions. In the shorter term, try adding weight. A-line sells a moldable putty that is 90% lead and I have nearly always been able to squeeze more or less of it into my steamers. (The MDC 2-6-0 might be a problem on this, though). In the longer term, plan on double-heading. My current semi-temporary layout (for fun and testing while I complete the finishing of the basement) has 2% grades as planned for the permanent layout, versus my layout in the previous house which was all on one level. I quickly learned that my small steam needs to be double-headed in order to pull satisfactory train lengths up the grade (for me, a minimum of 10 cars with a goal of 15). Even with DCC, you'll get the best results double-heading steam by using two identical models. Your biggest problem will be installing Kadee couplers in the front. It's usually possible but rarely easy, and I often decide in advance which of each pair will be the front and rear double-headers, thus only adding front Kadee to one of them. The double-heading has the added benefit of always impressing casual visitors. Of course, I have to say that the additional expenditure was unwelcome and is being spread over a two-year period.
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