 The Great Northern EP-5 Electric No. 2358 was available in 1959 and 1960. This engine featured twin operating pantographs and magnetic operating couplers, lighted at both ends, a three position directional unit that controls a single vertical worm drive motor, operating horn, and Magnetraction. The overhead pantographs could be wired to power this engine.
Based on a GE EP-5 Rectifier prototype, Lionel’s version lacked the six-wheel trucks that were used by the railroads, but was otherwise an accurate miniaturization of this electric engine. Three YELLOW stripes traverse the side between the GREEN and ORANGE colors that were painted on a GRAY body. A heat-stamp was used to print "GREAT NORTHERN," "BLT BY / LIONEl," and the number "2358" on the sides. Reproduction shells use a silk-screen process so collectors should examine these shells to make sure that the lettering was pressed into the plastic shell.
A growing problem in the aging of these units is the stress placed on the ends that mount to the chassis. This, and tension induced by the insertion of the oversized headlight lens has caused cracks on the ends and degradation of the nose decals.
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It is difficult today to find one of these units that does not show flaking and loss of portions of the GN decal on the ends. These original decals have often been replaced either by reproduction water-transfer decals, or those that use adhesive-backed paper. Collectors should note that removal of the original decal also removes some of the surrounding paint. This removal reveals the gray plastic body beneath and is a sure sign of decal replacement. Units that are found today with intact original decals command a large premium. There are no variations.
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