I finally pulled the trigger on one of these in B&M.
The MP Mogul (and its American counterpart) are actually good matches for several orders built by Manchester/ALCO, specifically the B-15-a/b:
https://sites.google.com/site/bostonandmainerailroad/home/boston-maine-steam-locomotivesFeatures that match include valve and running gear, cab style, headlight position and air compressor location.
In fact, these are a bit better of a match than the Bachmann ALCO Mogul, one of my all-time favorite models.
Performance is really good. I can't say it is the best team I have used (The Bachmann Mogul really is the high water mark for small steam), but it creeps slowly and the valve-gear is fluid.
I have a first run MP American which gave me a fair amount of trouble. After a TT install and tweaking of the tender pickups, it was a smooth performer if a tad finicky. The new all wheel tender pickup takes care of this.
Sound is.... ok I guess. To me, it sounds a bit hollow and the "chuff" sounds artificial. I think a boxed speaker would work better, but I'm not sure there is enough room in the tender. I am also thinking or drilling small holes in the coal load.
All-in-all, not a bad little engine. It's not the cheapest out there (again-Bachmann DCC equiped Mogul for $59), but it is a good choice for my prototype.
If only they would sell a tender kit with the new trucks to upgrade previous runs.
