Lionel 1946 No. 726 Berkshire 2-8-4 w/ 2426W Tender NO RESERVE (DAKOTApaul)

This is the top of the line in Lionel Berkshires. This is the rare 1946 Lionel No. 726 steam engine, and its No. 2426W Tender. Lionel placed the most detail and best running gear on this engine. Instead of cotter pins as used in the following years, Lionel used stanchions to hold the handrails on the engine. Instead of having the motor drive the rear axle and using the main rod to drive the rest of the axles, Lionel placed the motor horizontally and used a drive shaft to drive the front and rear axles. Plus of course no e-unit slot through the top of the boiler.

 

The engine and tender are in excellent condition - as seen in the pictures (please click the link above to view ALL the photos before bidding). I think the pictures speak for themselves, but I will detail what I see. The engine overall is very nice. Some minor wear, but not much. It is missing its little horn on the top. The engine lights up underneath and in the front, and it runs in forward and reverse when tested. Smoke bulb works. The 2426W Tender is the correct white heat stamped version. The stamps are nice and clear. I was not getting any power to the whistle, so I am not sure of its working condition.  Overall, a very nice clean set that should not be missed. Thanks. Offering in AUCTION format (support the auction format!) with NO RESERVE. Buyer pays shipping (Insurance is included in the shipping and handling fees for an estimate of $700). Please check out my other items currently listed, and save on shipping. NO RESERVE.