O MTH Std. Gauge Tinplate Red Comet 400E Tinplate Steam Engine (Traditional) 10-1351-0

MTH Standard Gauge Red Comet 400E Steam Engine – Tinplate Traditions

Experience the grandeur of Lionel's legendary 400E steam locomotive, faithfully reproduced by MTH Electric Trains in their acclaimed Tinplate Traditions line. This stunning Standard Gauge model captures the spirit of the "largest and most powerful model locomotive ever built," as proclaimed in Lionel's 1931 catalog.

Historical Significance

"The largest and most powerful model locomotive ever built," proclaimed the 1931 catalog that introduced the 400E. Lionel spared no hyperbole in announcing its new steam engine: "Never before in the history of model train building has such a powerful locomotive been offered the American boy. This new 400E is the master of them all — a veritable giant of the rails.

"In its creation, Lionel engineers have faithfully reproduced in steel, copper, brass and nickel, all of those fine and minute details that are found only in the largest, most modern railroad engines. Its long, low lines, its beauty of color and design and its mechanical precision opens the door for every boy to greater fun and enjoyment."

The catalog cover depicted a real engineer praising the model to a pair of knicker-clad boys: "'Just like mine' says Bob Butterfield, engineer of the 20th Century Limited." Apparently, the engineer of the New York Central 4-6-4 Hudson ignored the fact that the 400E was short one set of drivers, to enable it to negotiate standard gauge curves. The inside of the catalog featured three more engineers praising the realism of Lionel's models, with the slogan "Lionel trains are the trains railroad men buy for their boys." Outfit No. 423E, a freight set headed by the 400E, would set you back $72.50 in 1931 — about the same price as a train trip from Chicago to San Francisco, including a sixteen-day stay in the city by the bay.

Premium Features & Specifications

• Baked Enamel Finish – Durable, authentic Red Comet livery
• Colorful Paint Scheme – New Jersey Central Red Comet design
• Metal Wheels and Axles – Built for reliability and smooth operation
• Operating Metal Latch Couplers – Period-correct functionality
• Bild-A-Loco Motor – Classic mechanical power system
• Metal Handrails and Decorative Bell – Authentic detailing
• Nickel Trim – Premium metallic accents throughout
• Die-Cast Metal Chassis – Substantial weight and durability
• Stamped Steel Boiler – Traditional construction methods
• Stamped Steel Tender – Matching period-accurate design
• Track Voltage Operating Headlight – Functional illumination
• Unit Measures: 32 1/2" x 4 1/4" x 5 3/4" – Impressive display presence
• Operates On STD-42 Curves – Compatible with standard gauge layouts

Technical Specifications

Scale: Standard Gauge (Tinplate Traditions line)
Livery: Red Comet (New Jersey Central) with a baked enamel finish and nickel trim
Motor Type: Equipped with a classic Bild-A-Loco motor and an E-Unit for reverse operation, maintaining a traditional mechanical feel
Construction: Features a stamped steel boiler and a matching stamped steel tender mounted on a die-cast metal chassis
Lighting: Includes a track voltage operating headlight
Operating Components: Built with metal wheels, axles, and operating metal latch couplers for period-accurate aesthetics and functionality
Decorative Details: Adorned with metal handrails and a decorative bell
Minimum Operating Curve: Requires STD-42 diameter curves

Perfect For

This magnificent locomotive is ideal for collectors of tinplate trains, Standard Gauge enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the golden age of toy train manufacturing. Display it as a centerpiece or run it on your Standard Gauge track for an authentic vintage operating experience.

About MTH Electric Trains

MTH Electric Trains has earned a reputation for producing high-quality reproductions of classic tinplate locomotives. Their Tinplate Traditions line brings legendary designs back to life with modern manufacturing precision while maintaining the charm and character of the originals. Visit mthtrains.com to learn more about their complete product line.

Item Number: 10-1351-0
SKU: MTH1013510