MTH ELECTRIC TRAINS

The year was 1927 and the 408E was at the top of its class. The power-packed twin-motor Standard Gauge locomotive was a child of the earlier 402, but the 408E held its own on the family tree. Unlike the 402, the 408E boasted large collapsible pantographs that were better proportioned to the engine, more intricately designed trim, and marker lights on each end, in addition to the headlights.

Ignoring real railroad practice of red markers to the rear and green markers to the front on certain trains, the 408E oddly followed nautical tradition: red lights on one side and green on the other. When the larger 381 hit the scene in 1928, it knocked the 408E out of the top spot. It didn't take long for the 408E to step out of the new locomotive's shadow, however. The single-motor 381 didn't have the power to pull its accompanying train, the Transcontinental Limited. Known among collectors as the "State Set," the Transcontinental Limited had four 21 ½" coaches - the largest Lionel ever made - and the 408E powered its way to the front of the line because it had the might to pull them.

Our superb replica of the 408E returns to the Tinplate Traditions line for 2007 in four new paint schemes. Add this twin-motored Standard Gauge behemoth to your collection and experience the majesty of one of the most impressive toy locomotives ever made.