MTH 20-3101-1 O Virginian 2-8-8-8-2 Triplex Steam Locomotive & Tender #700 w PS2 EX/Box

Here is a MTH 20-3101-1 O Virginian 2-8-8-8-2 Triplex Steam Locomotive & Tender w/PS2 #700. In 1914 the Erie Railroad accepted delivery of a gigantic Baldwin-built 2-8-8-8-2 Triplex steamer. The P1-class tipped the scales at 853,050 pounds, and the third set of eight drivers, placed under the tender, meant that 89 percent of that weight was available for adhesion. When the Erie saw plans for the Triplex, they thought it represented the perfect solution to their primary operating problem: hauling heavy freight over Susquehanna Hill, a route where a short, steep grade significantly reduced the capacity of most road steamers. The Triplex eliminated the need for additional pushers to help a load top the hill. The engine‘s articulation also meant that of the total driving wheelbase of 71‘ 6“, only 16‘ 6“ was rigid - ideal for the winding track over Susquehanna Hill. Best of all, because it distributed its weight over such a large number of wheels, it combined high tractive effort with moderate axle loads, which meant it ran well on reasonably light track. It was so successful on the Erie‘s tricky Susquehanna route that the railroad ordered two more Triplexes in 1916. The difficulty of maintaining full steam pressure combined with the cost of maintenance on what was essentially three engines in one led to the Triplex‘s retirement in 1927. This extraordinary O Gauge die-cast locomotive returns to the MTH lineup in 2003 in Virginian livery. The Virginian Railroad actually utilized a 2-8-8-8-4 version of the Triplex, however this beautifully detailed Premier model can still be the king of any working freight line. This item features diecast body construction, a motor, knuckle coupler, metal wheels and axles.

This item has been graded per TCA standards C-7: Excellent based on visual appearance. One of the tender's rear step pieces is snapped off. These items show some scratches and spots of paint loss on the shell and chassis. Due to the date of manufacture, the buyer may need to replace the battery. The instruction manual is not included. The original box is included. Please check the photos for a detailed look at this item. Overall condition is Excellent.

Condition: Excellent (C-7)
Operational Status: Functional
Original Box: Yes (P-4)

Manufacturer: MTH
Model Number: 20-3101-1
Years Manufactured: 2003 - 2003
Road Name: Virginian (VGN)

Scale/Era: O Modern
Model Type: Steam Loco


The Trainz SKU for this item is 6278535.

Trainz Product Id: 11408486