@Rich Wiemann: Thanks for the "recipe" not sure when I might launch on this project but I will definitely follow your advice.
@Nation Wide Lines: That is really a beautiful set. I have one "Champion" set (or at least it came as a set-no box) but its a passenger set and the tender is very different, not nearly so elaborate. The engine seems similar however but the trim on yours looks more like my AF 301 engine, more elaborate than my Champion loco. What I really enjoyed however is that I have all the cars you pictured, but they were picked up at various times over the years as single car buys...and now I know they did come in some sets but uncatalogued and an approximate year 1937.
It really is amazing when you can find these things complete, even to the internal cardboard sleeves for the individual cars. GREAT FIND! Thanks for posting.
Don