MTH Standard Gauge Tinplate 400E Steam Engine – Gun Metal Gray with Brass Trim
Experience the grandeur of Lionel's legendary 400E steam locomotive, faithfully recreated by MTH Electric Trains in stunning Standard Gauge tinplate. This meticulously crafted model captures the spirit of the "largest and most powerful model locomotive ever built," as proclaimed in Lionel's iconic 1931 catalog.
Historical Significance
The original Lionel 400E was introduced in 1931 as a masterpiece of model engineering. Lionel spared no hyperbole in announcing this 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 faithfully reproduced in steel, copper, brass and nickel all of those fine and minute details found only in the largest, most modern railroad engines. Its long, low lines, beauty of color and design, and mechanical precision opened 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." 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
- Baked Enamel Finish – Durable gun metal gray finish with authentic brass trim and nickel accents
- Traditional Bild-A-Loco Motor – Reliable power with mechanical E-Unit for reverse operation
- Die-Cast Metal Chassis – Solid construction for stability and longevity
- Stamped Steel Boiler and Tender – Authentic tinplate construction
- Track Voltage Operating Headlight – Illuminates your layout with realistic lighting
- Operating Metal Latch Couplers – Connect to your O Scale freight cars and passenger cars
- Metal Wheels and Axles – Smooth operation and durability
- Metal Handrails and Decorative Bell – Authentic detailing throughout
- Nickel Trim – Period-correct finishing touches
Technical Specifications
- Scale: Standard Gauge, part of the Tinplate Traditions line
- Livery: Gun Metal Gray baked enamel finish with brass trim and nickel accents
- Motor Type: Traditional Bild-A-Loco motor with mechanical E-Unit for reverse operation
- Construction: Stamped steel boiler and matching stamped steel tender on die-cast metal chassis
- Lighting: Track voltage operating headlight
- Operating Components: Metal wheels, axles, handrails, decorative bell, and operating metal latch couplers
- Dimensions: 32 1/2" L × 4 1/4" W × 5 3/4" H
- Minimum Curve Radius: Operates on STD-42 curves
- Item Number: 10-1350-0
Perfect for Collectors and Operators
This MTH Standard Gauge 400E is ideal for tinplate enthusiasts, collectors of classic toy trains, and operators who appreciate the golden age of model railroading. Pair it with O Scale passenger cars or freight cars to create an impressive Standard Gauge layout.
Explore more O Scale locomotives and Standard Gauge tinplate trains at MPM Hobbies.
For more information about MTH Electric Trains and their product line, visit https://mthtrains.com/.