MrMuffin'sTrains announces a Custom Run Lionel Legacy NYC J3a Hudson

I think I know the answer but I will ask anyways. Can I get one just like this except with class lights? I know it's not likely as you can't make every possible configuration desired. If not though, will it be possible to get new boxpok drivers from Lionel? 

I'm speaking from preference, not necessarily from prototypical correctness so there is no reason to debate. My best option is likely one of the two offered in the catalog with the PT tenders and change the drivers myself if they are available.

Randy_B posted:

I think I know the answer but I will ask anyways. Can I get one just like this except with class lights? I know it's not likely as you can't make every possible configuration desired. If not though, will it be possible to get new boxpok drivers from Lionel? 

Why not get this one and then trade someone who has bought one of the Lionel Catalog items with Class lights and swap fronts? I think there are more than a few of us willing to do that.

Pete

Free Shipping?  You guys are really making it hard to stay on the sidelines with all these Hudsons.

I'm not sure what is involved with adding lights but it seems like it would be easier to swap the drivers if they aren't pressed on. I will probably go with the all disc one in the case that boxpok wheels are not available as I don't want to end up with mixed, prototypical or not.

Randy_B posted:

I'm not sure what is involved with adding lights but it seems like it would be easier to swap the drivers if they aren't pressed on. I will probably go with the all disc one in the case that boxpok wheels are not available as I don't want to end up with mixed, prototypical or not.

First you have assume Lionel will sell you drivers without the frame. Currently you have to buy the complete frame for the earlier J3s to get the drivers. Then assume they haven't used loctite on the screws. They did use Loctite on the TMCC drivers so you will want to buy new screws in case you have to drill some out. BTDT.

I would be surprised if Lionel omitted the Class LEDs even on the fronts without markers. It should be just a matter of swapping fronts and inserting the LEDs in the markers.

I actually have a front from 5444 that I would be willing to swap for a front without the class lights. Number plates and headlights are screwed on to the front so changing them out is no big deal.

Thats why I have suggested Lionel just include both styles of fronts with the engine and eliminated most of the discussion about this matter.

Pete

If the wiring was the same for all of them in the case of the lights and they're easily changed to exactly match ones produced with them then that's a possibility. I wasn't sure what all would be involved with the drivers and that sounds much more involved. It's just a little frustrating that there are now 6 variants and not one checks all of the boxes.

Lionel had made the drivers available for separate sale when they messed up the J3 from 2001. They delivered the engine with disc wheels when they were catalog with boxpok. I had purchased a few sets. It took 25 minutes to change them out. The drivers are held on with a Philips screw. I'm sure if Lionel wanted to satisfy everybody, they would make the various drivers available for anybody that wanted a certain look.

NVisich posted:

Lionel had made the drivers available for separate sale when they messed up the J3 from 2001. They delivered the engine with disc wheels when they were catalog with boxpok. I had purchased a few sets. It took 25 minutes to change them out. The drivers are held on with a Philips screw. I'm sure if Lionel wanted to satisfy everybody, they would make the various drivers available for anybody that wanted a certain look.

Good to know. 

My attention is firmly grabbed. I will have to get in on this for sure because it is just one of those grand things to be in on. P.S., where's the thumbs up on my phone????

I had that engine from 2001, the traction tires were on the center driver and the engine bobbed up and down, rocked back and forth.  Order the kit and the traction tire was one the rear driver.  The mod was more than changing out the wrong drivers than what was cataloged.

MrMuffin'sTrains posted:

superwarp1 posted:

First Pic from the Rutland RR FB page, second photo from Richard Leonard's collection

Thank you so much for these pictures. 

I got my order in last night.  I think I can speak for many of us when I say Thank you!!!!! for getting this done for us!!!!   Maybe when they arrive I can bring a few friends out and to see your place and pick it up.  Thanks again Sir!

jeremy ferrell posted:

MrMuffin'sTrains posted:

superwarp1 posted:

First Pic from the Rutland RR FB page, second photo from Richard Leonard's collection

Thank you so much for these pictures. 

I got my order in last night.  I think I can speak for many of us when I say Thank you!!!!! for getting this done for us!!!!   Maybe when they arrive I can bring a few friends out and to see your place and pick it up.  Thanks again Sir!

Our pleasure - happy to help..... I hope you do visit..... 

Is there a limited number of these being produced Steve?

My order is in. Thank you Mr. Muffin's Trains for getting what we all wanted. 

RickO posted:

Is there a limited number of these being produced Steve?

The minimum number that we need to order is 25 with Lionel.... I am under the understanding that I can bump that number up some as long as I do it before the catalog order date which is 3/08... So, we will make at least 25 of these.... I don't want anyone to miss out, however, I will not be ordering extras..... 

Norton posted:

Randy_B posted:

I think I know the answer but I will ask anyways. Can I get one just like this except with class lights? I know it's not likely as you can't make every possible configuration desired. If not though, will it be possible to get new boxpok drivers from Lionel? 

Why not get this one and then trade someone who has bought one of the Lionel Catalog items with Class lights and swap fronts? I think there are more than a few of us willing to do that.

Pete

Right here, I’ll trade ya out!....lol........Pat

MrMuffin'sTrains posted:

RickO posted:

Is there a limited number of these being produced Steve?

The minimum number that we need to order is 25 with Lionel.... I am under the understanding that I can bump that number up some as long as I do it before the catalog order date which is 3/08... So, we will make at least 25 of these.... I don't want anyone to miss out, however, I will not be ordering extras..... 

When the minimum of 25 have been ordered Steve, will you let us know on here?

John Rowlen posted:

Is it possible to have this engine come with two boiler fronts, one with classification lights and another without?

Another dealer is including both fronts with his Hudsons.

Sincerely, John Rowlen

mr muffins is offering an exact representation of 5415, as it ran on the NYC for us scale/rivet counter types.  Why offer class lights when it never had them.  If you want them order from the other dealer.