Lionel Torpedo Question

It shouldn't surprise me if it did have an electronic reverse unit, since by 1994 Lionel had totally phased out the old mechanical E-unit from all of it's locomotives. If I'm correct, the Torpedo's you're talking about were made in 1997/1998.

All TMCC units operate as if they had Electronic Reverse units when in Conventional Mode.

Jon

I have both versions of this locomotive. The #18052 and the 18072. They have TMCC, Railsounds, and the LCRU-2 unit. (electronic control unit)

It is reliable. These engines have given me no issues what so ever. I run them in TMCC, and they will also run conventional. 

If you have a chance, pick one up!! The whistle is really neat, almost sounds like a ghost..!!

1 chuff per revolution though.  But I agree still a good runner.

Would you be hesitant to purchase a 16 year old locomotive if it was new in the box?

I have the Pennsy Torpedo.  Its a good locomotive.  It comes with magnetraction.  Included in the box was 2 tire traction wheels which you can swap out.  Smoke unit is OK.  Don't expect mega smoke from it. 

Postwar smoke quality. Not terrible, not great. I'm happy with mine. I believe it was the second engine I ever bought at York. 

Without a doubt, one of my favorite engines.I have the 18052 and did the smoke unit modification

outlined by Jim Barrett a few years ago,smokes great runs terrific!

Well, I wouldn't be, I've bought a ton of used TMCC stuff.  Most of it worked out of the box, and the stuff that had issues has been pretty easy to fix.

Are you guys referring to the re-issues of the prewar 238E?

Yes, it is 6-18052.

Well, I bought a new-in-box Reading Fairbanks-Morse, made in, what, 1993?  No problems whatever.