Lionel's five-unit diesel set came with an Alco FA-1 type locomotive which was more like the locomotive from the 1947 Freedom Train (an Alco PA-1) than it was any locomotive that ever pulled the AFT.

It was a cost-saving measure on Lionel's part. They wanted to produce a smaller, more affordable set than the steamer set -- so they reused a locomotive mold they had had for many years.

The locomotive was painted in a scheme reminiscent of the GE locomotive (leased Union Pacific #951) that pulled the Preamble Express around part of the country a year ahead of the AFT.

Photo: Kevin D. Anderson.

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