614 Alaska

Production: 1959 & 1960

History
The 614 Alaska diesel switcher was introduced in 1959 to celebrate the addition of Alaska as a state to the United States and remained in the catalogue for only two years -- 1959 and 1960. Lionel's model is an excellent representation of a real-life NW2 diesel switcher.

This unit is unique among all postwar Lionel engines because of the yellow Dynamic Brake Superstructure mounted on top of the motor cover in front of the cab. It is the only postwar diesel to ever include this realistic diesel accessory. Lastly, Lionel included this diesel as the lead locomotive in only one set in 1959 -- which consisted of primarily Alaska railroad markings on the freight cars.

Features
Standard features of the 614 include: royal blue-painted shell, yellow lettering with a cute, waving Eskimo figure under the window on each side, single axle Magnetraction, two-position E-unit, single headlight, non-operating plastic couplers plus a yellow brake structure mounted on top of the cab.

The 614 also has a black sheet-metal frame with a center skirt plus front and rear end rails and steps.

Additional Detail, Photos & Box Information
Two versions of this engine exists: one with a builder's plate on the side with the words "BUILT BY LIONEL" in blue, and the extremely rare variation with the same words and plate outlined in yellow. Additionally, the center window support is fragile and is frequently found either cracked or completely missing.

Blue Builders Plate - Shown in the photo above - The most common version has an unpainted Builders Plate on each side.
Yellow-outlined Builders Plate - This is a rare version and extremely difficult to locate.

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