Hello

Well the new J is a fine runner and a good puller.  I hope to convert it to DCC when I have a littl emore time.

How about a Spectrum NYC Niagara S1B 4-8-4 with DCC or compatibility for DCC/sound.  The J and Naigara [6000-6026] represented the finest steam and both compiled terrific reliable and economical operations records.

And Bachmann already has the Niagara in HO!

The Niagara was used for anything on the Central.  It originanlly pulled the 20th Century, Advanced Commodore Vanderbilt, etc. from Harmon [23 miles from NYCity] to Chicago without changing locos.  Also, Niagaras was used for fast freight [Pacemeake cars] and when souless diesels took over, any freight.

It did have 79" drivers.  The tender was huge, so there should be plenty of room for a sound/DCC board.
This would go great with the new NYC passenger cars coming out in both the 1940-46 scheme as well as the 1948+ dark gray /light gray band.

I hope this seems like a good idea to others!  If you need some photos, I should e able to list links.

AlanJ3A