Which transformer?

A 1041 would probably be appropriate, 60 watts, and available in 1946, as well as the 1042 75 watt version.

The RW would make a good upgrade at 110 watts, and although not cataloged until 1948 would look contemporary to 1946. The Type R or V with a 167 whistle controller would be a nice 1946 set-up too.

While a little bit later than 1946, a Lionel 1033 would work also.  Plenty of them on eBay.

ADCX Rob,

Since I did not know what transformer years ago (or now) I found a nice 167 still in its original box. I will look both of them up. Thank You!

BigMike88,

I have a couple of extra 1033's right now. I love them and that is what I currently use.

I guess the only other thing to ask about would be how much O-31 track came with the set(s) offered then and was a RCS part of the set?

Here are some pictures of the trains.

In the case of the 2560 Crane, well I like it even though it is not part of this set. The 2452-1 and 2458-1 pictures are the cars that have the flying shoe coupler assemblies. The 2452-2 and2458-2 have the improved version of the coil coupler assembly.

I use a pre-war 224 under the tree, with the cars that I got with it in 1941.  While I have a Type R on the shelf, for safety's sake I use an MTH Z500.  The breaker is reliable and fast, unlike those old Lionels.

I have a couple of old 167s, but they were always a pain as loco slowed down when whistle was blown.

Henry J.,

I became interested in your journey after reading this a decided to do some research.

It seems that you have chosen to assemble the 463W set from 1945. Quite the collector's item.

Consulting some books would confirm the set, but this what I have found:

The set included the 1041 transformer, but a 250 watt ZW was also available in 1945.

The RCS track was part of the set.

It appears the set included 8 curves, 3 straights and the RCS straight.

here's the links to my internet research results.

Set 463W

The 224 loco ( I believe it's a typo when they set 343W)

Set 463W complete for sale (nice photo, I used it for the track count)

1041 Transformer

Cool project! Enjoy the hunt.

Thank You Moonman!!!

When I was working on the engine all those years back I had some of the notes found on the one link. Since the rear truck was missing I bought reproductions of both versions(which happens to be the only non-original Lionel part on it). I have been trying to find an original 2466 WX tender in very good shape that won't cost me an arm and leg.

And,of course the elusive 2555/2755 Sunoco tank car. It's still the 'thrill of the chase'. I'll get there(I am just not ready to spend $125.00+ for one in similar condition to my other pieces).

All I can say is "WOW" to that set that was for sale! B. E. A. U. T. I. F. U. L. (Just a little out of my price range right now... lol... ).