Alco Alligators

[Mark5]

the decision to put a decoder in everything instead of making it DCC compatible with your choice of board. 

Yes, very annoying - sometime after this release BLI started offering "stealth" versions so that you could add your decoder.

I really like the RSD15s, just wish I could justify one (unfortunately, there no RSD15 demonstrators that I am aware of).

[C855B]

... The model is really very good, ... after I pulled the decoder, added weight and tested it, I was sold and got three more.   Great performance, very good drawbar pull. ...

Same experience. Redid one with a LokPilot, and a hesitating piece of crap with the original decoder became a great performer that even m.u.'s well with both Atlas and ST.  Have three more to do, but sadly the workbench has been kinda quiet lately.

Have a special affection for the prototype, having witnessed them operating over Tehachapi in their final days.