Old Reliable - Lionel NW2 Switchers After 75 Years

Lionel Trains returned to EMD for inspiration in 1949 and introduced a model of the EMD 1000 horsepower NW2 switcher, once again lettered for the Santa Fe. These new switchers appeared in both the O gauge line as the number #622, and in the O27 product line as the #6220. Other than the numbers, the models were identical. For a modeler in 1949, these models were great. They were scale-proportioned, featured diecast frames and wire handrails, three position reverse units, and operating couplers and headlights at each end. The NW2 was also a contemporary model. EMD had been producing the popular NW2 for Americas’s railroads since 1939 and they were still rolling off the assembly line when Lionel’s first models hit the store shelves in late 1949. Lionel’s early models also featured a mechanical bell that rang automatically as the locomotive moved back and forth around the track. However, with no on-off switch, the bell was not particularly popular with parents - especially with a New Year’s Day hangover and many examples are found today with the bells removed or mutilated beyond repair. Lionel’s #622 and #6220 NW2 switchers also had a Top Secret feature. While not promoted in the Lionel catalog, these models were the first to receive Lionel’s Magnetraction, testing the feature for full-scale rollout in 1950. *As an Amazon Associate and a member of other affiliate networks, We may receive commissions on qualifying sales generated from the links on this channel.** Visit Our Virtual Storefront! https://walmrt.us/3sIUMQu Toy Train Tips And Tricks is a channel devoted to the operation, repair, history, and collecting of classic 3-rail O and O27 gauge trains made by Lionel, Marx, K-Line, Menards, and other manufacturers. Keep the trains running! Music and Visual Effects Courtesy of Pixabay.com Facebook:   / ttttlocomaniac   Twitter:   / ttttmike   Instagram:   / mrmoore2001   #Promotion #Lioneltrains #Trainset #Trainrepair #Traincollecting #Ogauge #Oscale