TrainNut,
I am currently converting two Lionel sample models of the C&O H-7 2-8-8-2 from 3 rail to 2 rail. These models came unpainted and the die casting in these models is fantastic. Many of the add on details are lost wax brass castings. The first loco is finished and runs like a clock. I am not sure if any importer ever made a model of the C&O H-7 so if a modeler wanted one to run on a 2 rail layout conversion may be his only option.
I have converted many models to 2 rail, (mostly steam and electric loco models) since MTH started producing 2 rail versions of their premier line of diesel locos.
As stated above, your other option is to sell your 3 rail locos and purchase 2 rail models. A couple of years ago, I converted over twenty locos to 2 rail for a modeler who had a 3 rail scale layout and could not live with the 3 rail track. I did approximately one loco per month. When he could find a 2 rail version of a model he had, he sold the 3 rail loco in his collection.
He converted all of his passenger and freight cars himself and rebuilt his 3 rail railroad into a two rail layout during the period that I was converting the locomotives.
He seems to be very happy with his model railroad now.
Joe Foehrkolb
