My knowledge of 3rd Rail engines goes back to about 2004, when I came across the first steamers I got from them. I have only acquired one used 3rd Rail engine, it is conventional only and has QSI sound. It's ended up as a shelf queen but not because it won't run; it's great to look at but doesn't hold a candle to later command control engines in terms of play value.
But I have certainly avoided much older stuff because I have heard about cosmetic/operational issues. You can always research what year a used model was produced and what features it has.
Pre-2010 3rd Rail did produce some fine steamers. I have an SP AM-2 4-6-6-2 cab forward that is the finest detail loco I've got.
