@modeltrainsparts posted:My 2 cents are: From one of your early statements it appears you have never done any or much soldering, and perhaps even any repair work on post war Lionel. If this assumption is accurate read on; if not stop here and accept my apologies for the error of assuming too much.
ERR kits are easy to install and have well written instructions plus a plethora of sound advice here on the forum from the likes of gunrunnerjohn, Norton, and many others. My advice is to acquire a used Williams, KLine, Rail King or other inexpensive diesel and practice by installing an ERR Cruise Commander on one of these. No smoke, synchronized chuff, tether, antenna isolation problems to deal with, and lots of room to work in. Once you feel comfortable with that installation then move on to a brass steam loco.
Good luck in any case and happy railroading.
Your assumptions hit the nail on the head 
Thank you for your advice - I'm not as much of a diesel person as I am a steamer but I'll take that into consideration. There are a few diesel prototypes I'd like to get my hands on
