Thanks guys. Based on your comments might be worth spending the extra for a Lionel. However as I started looking found a 3rd rail Brass J-1d for slightly over $600 so that might really be the way to go. I always try to get the best "Value". Which rarely is the highest or lowest price, but somewhere in the middle. I trust you guys, if it was your money and you were just going to buy 1 which would you choose? K-Line at $400, Lionel or 3rd rail at $640.
I'm calling it a night. Who knows maybe somebody on the West Coast is a NYC Fan! Will see what comments are here tomorrow.
Thanks again Pat, Pete, Skip and Mario for all your help!