Interesting turn of events since I began seeking advice for a switch engine. I almost pulled the trigger on the new 0-6-0 T, but I held off. In fact I haven't purchased one yet.
Meantime since Christmas things have transpired.
1. My loving wife gave me a LC 2.0 plus Berkshire in the Southern railway scheme from Mario's. Shes great! Mario's Trains are great to deal with. Did I mention that my wife is great! I was thrilled to receive the locomotive and I love it. That is when it's working correctly. Unfortunately I'm waiting on a Return Authorization from Lionel for several problems it has developed since Christmas.
2. I bought about 20 bucks worth of Parts from Jeff at the Train Tender and my uncles 1946 2-6-2 # 1666 is running again.
3. I found out that if I run my ZW at 10 or 12 volts to the track and run my Lionchief 0-8-0 it has much better slow speed performance. I dont use remote uncouplers so the non operating one on the front isn't a big deal for me. The old 0-5-0 helps out here.
4. I'm looking more at postwar and even some later conventional Lionel units at this point because parts are readily available and common repairs are relatively easy to fix.
I appreciate all if the information. When I decide to get a switcher I have these recommendations.
Best Regards
