These are one of the first models produced by Penn line, a strong competitor in the late 40's and up. They where known for there there power, reliability, and detail within the ho scale hobby, setting the standards of a ho locomotive, and brought in more companies to compete with them in the ho gauge, such as Gilbert (American Flyer) being one of there closest rivals. As for the locomotive, highly reliable, over powered for its size, hard to kill, a tank on 4 ho gauged brass wheels. I was able to repair one of these to working order, after being seized up as if it where exposed to the elements for some years. A vary good yard worker, will likely out stand most modern built small sized locomotives on the job. This is the strongest 4 wheeled switcher i ever seen. However they tend to sell much higher then they should be, i have gotten both of mine within the 5-30 range, the 30$ one was found online in a good typically used condition, but they do tend to sell cheaper in train shows. Unless its near mint with its original box, i do not recommend spending in the 60-80$ range. These are small, vary simple locomotives, yet effective. There great power comes from only there heavy body, and the two quite large brass and plastic gears for a smooth run. Construction wise, there built to be cheap and affordable. The chassis is constructed with a one piece die-cast base, a worm gear that spans the entire chassis underside, with a large gear on one end for the motor, the two wheels, a die-cast plate to hold the wheels and gear, and finally the simple frame constructed motor with large gear. To wrap it up, while they are a high performer for there age, there also somewhat common and vary basic, so i don't see where the 60$+ price range is coming from (unless mint +box), keep en eye out for the 20-40$ range instead.Read full review
Verified purchase: No
Because it had the parts I needed to make one working engine!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Great vintage engine. All TYCO are not trash, it depends upon the care they've been given. Remember, back then they were all that was available and affordable.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
The railings were all I needed. Very nice.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Wheels are rusted shut.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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