I am thinking about modeling a Southern LS-1 or LS-2 2-8-8-2. How close is the Proto 2000 Heritage 2-8-8-2 as a starting point. The dimensions look close and the four wheel truck tender of the C&O model look right. I would be buying the undecorated model, (with four wheel trucks?) Any suggestions would be appreciated, thank you!
Its got the right number of wheels, so you would have to look at the boiler and see if the domes and accessories could be used as-is. Things like flying pumps, tanks and pipes can be added to suit. It depends upon how much of a detail hound you are, see? Some people would just decal it and slap any old number on and call it "Done". Maybe you can find a photo of an engine that suits your idea, then go from there? Most people really could not tell one engine from another unless one was a 4-8-4 and the other was a 2-8-8-2, see? Keep in mind that nobody died and gave someone else any right to dictate what you can do with your own engine! If you like it, then it is GREAT! Enjoy it!
I'm not sure if you're aware but Precision Scale is planning to release brass LS-1s and 2s in 2006. I can't afford brass, but was thinking about setting aside a little each month through next year to purchase one. I've decided against it, because the region I'd like to model probably rarely (if ever) saw LSs. The Southern Rwy historical association (SRHA) has a magazine (Ties). I believe a few years back they did a series of articles on steamers which included the LS class. I can't remember if there were any modeling articles included. Good luck!
Thanks for your help. The Heritage engine does look very close and I can always tweak details later. For better or worse, I'm no rivet counter and I cannot justify brass. I believe in the overall effect of a great model railroad rather than in the specific details.
