Here's what I've l've learned from this thread. MTH should stop making "hybrids" because hybrids always require a specialized ecological niche and can't reproduce. Make 2R engines for 2-railers and 3-rail engines for 3-railers and stop trying trying to make a watchdog that's also a cat. 
Yes, I know, some of us want to buy one device that works everywhere thus cutting down on investment costs. In business, the rule is pick one thing, do it better than your competition, and you'll own the market. Don't try to be all things to all people.
Bob,
I couldn't agree with you more! I have no interest in 2 rail, and all I operate is 3 rail. I hate to think of the number of hours that I spent resolving the issues that are addressed by this thread. I never had any of these problems with PS2 engines.
Frank,
Yes, the trucks and wheel sets were quite easy to remove on this particular PS3 engine. This is the only PS3 engine that I have, so I don't know if other locomotives are similar
I disagree. Production is easier with hybrids as the only real difference is the wheelsets inserted into the unit (and pilots on diesels). Even though the higher percentage may be 3-rail, maintaining a 2-rail production raises the price on all of the product.
3/2 steam does present a challenge, but as you've seen above, the work-around isn't difficult.
