Brian,
That was "Baaaaaa-d".
Here is a video of my Southern Pacific AC-12 that went into Lionel Service for a jerking movement that was diagnosed as a traction tire in the inside linkage. The engine was returned to me with the entire lower front end missing. The cow catcher and scale coupler are gone. They were there when I sent it in for service. The engine was returned to me when my mother was in and out of the hospital. I opened the engine this weekend to put one of Gunrunner John's YLB Batteries in the engine. This AC-12, along with my Allegheny #1604 now need service again after Lionel fixed them, and they are both out of warranty. Inspect everything Lionel fixes immediately.
Of course, Lionel is so busy. It looks like it will be another year before the two engines get fixed, if ever. $3800 go bye, bye.
I sent my Lionel 1931250 Greyhound Challenger #3977 back to the seller. Too many issues. Side work light on engineer's side rear did not light, no Steam Generator smoke, and it needed new articulated sounds. It was a "Baaaaaa-d" experience.
Sincerely, John Rowlen
