Nice, easy-to-assemble kit of a classic. Good-looking as in the pictures, featuring the intricate mechanism of the engine. One caution and two suggestions. The tiny, metal retainer ring that comes with the kit in a small plastic bag, is easily overlooked (you have to look hard at the instructions to see it and where it goes) and/or lost if you are not careful - further, it is a piece that is needed very early in the assembly, so if you get too far and neglect to install it, it's hard to go back and put it in place. And, I suggest that you paint the tender's wheels flat black instead of just leaving them brown - easily done - this makes the final result look consistent in presentation. Finally, as this is a working (wind-up) model, the application of some very fine-weight lubricating oil (the type intended for model railroads) to moving points makes the whole thing run a bit more smoothly.

It's a REAL snap-together kit! It goes together very well and there was no "flash" to mess with! It even runs.There's really no painting needed as photos of the real one show it to be all black.

I bought this for my husband while he was in the hospital and he loved putting it together. Great way to pass the time. Not having to use special tools a plus.

fun to build and really cool lookin...I painted it up and applied a small amount of weathering (although its still looks great if you don't) and it is really a showpiece in our collection.

Great for show and tell projects. Two color plastic parts have very good detail. Finished size is very good. Optional painting instructions are not included. Can't wait for the grandkids to try it out.