246 Lionel Lines Scout

Production:  1959 - 1961

History
The 246 steam locomotive is frequently referred to as a Scout locomotive. Lionel used the word Scout to denote its entry-level 027 steam locomotives. Generally speaking, Scout engines had a 2-4-2 wheel arrangement and were reserved for beginner or starter sets. Most scout locomotives had few features and could rarely pull more than a three or four car freight train.

The 246 was introduced in 1959 and was produced for three years. Interestingly, the 1960 and 1961 production run had a slightly redesigned motor. In either case, the 246 had minimal pulling power. Finally, this locomotive was included in two catalogued sets during its production -- set # 1609 (1959 & 1960) and set # 1641 (1961) -- as well as several dozen promotional and uncatalogued retail outfits in the early 1960's. Like most Scout locomotives, there is minimal collector interest in this steam engine and its sets.

Features
The 246 Scout steam locomotive included the following features: plastic boiler painted black, white lettering, two position E-unit, a single metal drive rod on each side, illuminated headlight plus a headlight lens.

The 246 was available with one of two Lionel Lines non-whistling tenders. The slightly more common tender is the 1130T streamlined tender, however the 244T slope-back tender was also available for this locomotive.

Additional Detail, Photos & Box Information

Only Known Variation - Shown in first photo above. - All 246s are black with white numbers.

To purchase quality Lionel Steam Locomotives from our sponsors, click on either website:

Dave's Trains Inc.