This is a good discussion for me. The PRR S2 is one of two models of Pennsy big engines active in 1949 that I do not have (the other is 3rd Rail's T1 prototype with the fairings removed). I model the Pennsy in 1949, and the S2 was active until Aug 1949 when an accident took it out of service.
In my comment above I hinted at the quality of the Weaver/3rd Rail S2. I bought two from different sources and sent them both back due to the wheel sets on both the engine and tender loose in the box. One had a broken training truck frame which I assumed was zinc rot. Therefore I was staying away from this engine. I find it good that other posters do not have that problem with 3rd Rail's S2.
If I'm understanding everything above the best value for me would be the TMCC version with smoke deflectors (6-38028). Those smoke deflectors (Elephant Ears) were added in 1946 so that version best fits my era. That is the second set of smoke deflectors, the first were too small to work. I'd add ERR cruise and just keep the smoke off. I'll start looking.
