Actually, this is an excellent set! Look at it this way. A starter F3 Santa Fe is around $484. But this Lionchief 2.0 has unbelievable rail sounds and fan driven smoke. Yes the color is off from the originals, but so what. If you like the originals, get an original. As to the accuracy, well “NO” real engines ran on three rails and ”real” trains smoke. If the color of the steps or no decal is a big deal, than paint it and order a set of decals with the GM logo for $6.
The can motors are not Pullman but have plenty of power. What I did was used my passenger cars from my other sets. Baggage, five passenger cars, two vista dome and and observation car. I also got a “B” unit and silvered the trucks to match.
So I’m running a Lionchief 2.0 with fan driven smoke on the “A” and dummy “A”. It’s a ABA look, with electro hooks, full rail sounds, Bluetooth that can be controlled by my universal remote, Lionchief app or my Cab remote. I took my passenger cars apart and put seated people in them for the ultimate Santa Fe experience.
Still have dads old classic, but honestly this one is better. Brings the “full experience” for me. To me this hobby is about enjoyment. That’s why I’m not afraid to modify, tweek or adjust things.
Also I thought the darkened portholes, reverse light on the dummy A and some real vent screens were nice. 2.0 also allows extremely slow startups on both diesel and steam engines and not like conventional “race car” startups, buzzing e units and soundless experience.
I watched the review on Eric’s Trains and the guy has one of the most extensive collections I’ve ever seen. So I feel $1,000 is fair for the set. The five classic remakes of the caboose (53) , milk car (47), Auto Loader, log car and the three dome Sunoco tanker are amazing! This cars sell for $80 a piece and the milk car with platform $120. That’s over $440 in rolling stock alone with much better engine than he $484 set, so I think saying it’s overpriced d is a bit unfair.
As to where it’s made, Lionel isn’t coming to America unless we decide to work cheaper and with less benefits. That is reality! As with any Lionel product of any era the trains will last as long as they are cared for, properly maintained and stored when not in use.
Frank
