249 Pennsylvania Scout

Production:  1958

History
The 249 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 249 was only produced for a single year -- 1958. This locomotive is similar to the 250 steamer from 1957, but with fewer features. Specifically, the E-unit was downgraded from a three-position unit in the 250 to a two-position E-unit in the 249. Additionally, the 249 lacked an illuminated headlight which was a standard feature in the 250.

Finally, in addition to being available as a separate sale item, the 249 was also included as the lead locomotive in one 027 freight outfit in 1958 as well as one 027 gauge promotional set in 1960 for Premier Service Corporation.

Features
The 249 Scout steam locomotive included the following features: unpainted plastic boiler, white lettering, a red stripe painted along the running board, two position E-unit, a single metal drive rod on each side plus a ballast weight mounted to the interior of the front and rear of the steamer's boiler.

The 250T Pennsylvania non-whistling tender was always included with the 249 steam locomotive.

Additional Detail, Photos & Box Information

Only Known Variation - Shown in first photo above. - All 249's are black with white numbers and a reddish-orange painted stripe along the running board.

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