Training in the grandson to handle, run, and switch.. and perhaps transport a few Google Giraffes at the ranch..
appreciate your recomendations/ advice
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
623 & 624 on my layout all the time too.
In addition to 623 and 624 there is 6220 ATSF bell ringing switcher.
Mikey
This is my favorite.
Attachments
Images (1)
6250 switcher is my favorite from a color standpoint, but I have the 623 and 624 as they run equally well. All of them have a whistle relay installed so I can control the front and rear couplers independently.
Roger
610. It's inexpensive, but has a high quality still and is an excellent base for modification.
many thanks 
623 runs all the time on my layout.
Picked up cheap on that auction site.
Attachments
Images (1)
Wow, great minds.
The 624 C&O is the one!
I have three, a 623, 627, and a 1615.
The 623 is an absolute dream. Runs VERY smooth, slow speed operation is great, pulls a lot.
The 627, despite being much "cheaper" still runs pretty well. It doesn't pull as much, being much lighter, but still manages a realistic train for a 44 tonner (6-10 cars). The E-unit really resonates in the shell, though. Holy crap is it loud.
The 1615 isn't so hot. It's prone to derailments, and it only has two speeds. Stopped and "almost fast enough to tip over". It's geared way too high. I would like to replace it with a 1656.
Any or all of Lionel's NW2 quality made Switchers made during the early 1950s before they cheapened them with stamped metal frames and changed the motors in 1955. The early ones are great running engines. I have the 623, 624, 6220 and 6250 and I love all of 'em. I don't know what it is about Lionel's early switchers but all of mine seem to produce prodigious amounts of ozone when running and I absolutely love it.
