Had to jump on eBay and get another Loco... *3985* 4-6-6-4, Challenger, UP, 6-11200 LionMaster - Legacy (2009) is on its' way!
As cost is a major factor... I'll divulge my expenditures to give an idea at what one may spend... to live the dream...
I do not have a ton of money so I compromise... I have 300 sections of Super-O track and 6 pairs (12) #112 switches and all accompanying Bus Bars, Insulators, Pins etc. I spent a smidgen over 900.00 (including tax & shipping) on track/switches/accessories. As I am restricted to O-36... I attempt to scale (semi, almost, not quite, kinda, sorta scale) accordingly ...hence LionMaster which for me comes in at a good price point for Like New (seldom do I buy New) condition. While most would shudder... I could not be happier with my Upgraded 11106 *746* NWJ, 18343 GG1 *2332*, Hudson 18056 *5344*, Virginian FM (Celebration series) *2331* TMCC Locos I recently purchased as well as a handful of post war trains. I bought these as I recently purchased the Lionel 14295 *990* Legacy Command System.
Additionally, I really like the appearance of the Super-O (that's just me... most don't)... and, it is *dead quiet*.
Now, throw in a ZW, a couple of 15" passenger sets (always 6 or 7 cars), several quality freight consists (I like MTH here), some *other goodies*, tools and I'm @ about 3,600.00... and, livin' the dream.
Dave's suggestions above are spot on... happy railroading!
