Buy anything cool lately?

                         I see...

                   we both got tanked this weekend...             nice car Bob !!

Another UP Heritage Locomotive. MTH did a really good job. Unfortunately, I couldn't pull a train with it as i'm out of Kadees.

AGHRMatt posted:

Another UP Heritage Locomotive. MTH did a really good job. Unfortunately, I couldn't pull a train with it as i'm out of Kadees.

Do you like garish? Holy cow.

Not at all like the refined, elegant paint schemes of PRR...

RSJB18 posted:

Added some more rolling stock to the fleet.

The Yuengling tanker and the box car came from a forum member. The D&H car from Trainz.

Those are some excellent cars, Bob!

I picked up my new NYC Hudson a couple of days ago - WOW!!! As has been noted on another thread, this is a beautiful engine. I choose the 5418 with the standard tender which I find reminiscent of the conventional 783 and 785 in my collection. The applied detail is impressive, the engine runs nicely, and the sounds are excellent. If I have any complaint, it is that the various switches are back under the cab... while this isn’t a major issue, it does somewhat complicate the programming since you need to take the engine off the track after you do the programming to switch the engine to Run. I prefer when the switches are under a hatch on the top of the engine.

That's a beauty Paul. The Hudson is my favorite steamer. I have a nice HO Rivarossi that I've had since I was  kid. It's a little worse for wear and on its second motor but.....

Mark- Thanks- starting to build a beer train.

A Menards early single dome black tanker, need more with oil company logos.

Hey Bob, your Hudson was the subject of a Gil Reid painting years ago, titled "79 MPH", NYC Hudson 5405

http://gilreid.com/product/79-mph/

Rusty

I finally got my Bachmann trench locomotive, it just showed up today. It has the best sound system I've ever heard out of a ready to run locomotive.

https://youtu.be/oPs1xkBu0zo

It's definitely going to need to be broken in, though.

I bought another project from my secret source. MTH Premier Santa Fe 3460 class Hudson 3464. It's never been run but is missing all the electronics and smoke unit. It just has the 9434 Pittman motor and drivetrain in the shell. It's a combination of 3464's shell and front truck with 3463's drive wheels and rear truck, which don't have white wall tires. No matter as I'll be removing the white walls from the front truck. This is going to be a Frankenstein project with the tender shell being from a Lionel 3751 class Northern (the final rebuild 3751 class Northerns used the same 20k gallon water capacity tender as the 3460 class Hudsons) and the chassis, trucks, and toolboxes coming from a MTH Premier Blue Goose Hudson (the Blue Goose was a streamlined 3460 class Hudson). Everything will be PS3 controlled when it's done. I'll be taking pictures as I go through the project and I'll start a post with all the pictures when it's done. Should be a fun project after the holidays. This is my 3rd Premier Santa Fe 3460 class Hudson. I already have 3463 and 3460 (The Blue Goose). Needless to say I like this model.

p51 posted:

I finally got my Bachmann trench locomotive, it just showed up today. It has the best sound system I've ever heard out of a ready to run locomotive.

https://youtu.be/oPs1xkBu0zo

It's definitely going to need to be broken in, though.

Very nice Lee. Looks and sounds great! It needs a engineer and fireman. I assume your expert weathering is on the to do list too?

Bob

Lee, I am with Bob!  That is a great looking and sounding engine!  I’m sure you will get it detailed just right!

RSJB18 posted:

p51 posted:

Very nice Lee. Looks and sounds great! It needs a engineer and fireman. I assume your expert weathering is on the to do list too?

I don't know if I'd call what I do to poor unfortunate rolling stock as 'expert,' but thanks for the kind words.

Yeah, once I break this in, I'll be putting WW2-era Army markings along the side tanks ("USA" only, not "USAQMC" as was common for US Army Quarter Master Corps as I'd be explaining that every time anyone looked at it) and then a road number under cab side windows. I've settled on 5069, as that was a road number for one of the original Baldwin class 10s, and I recently turned 50, born in 1969 (and this was intended as a birthday present to myself, belated by two weeks due to Bachmann).

Then, yeah, some light weathering. they didn't go nuts with letting these things go even back then, so it'll get weathered about as lightly as my Whitcomb diesel.

At Fort Benning, they ran a small fleet of Davenports, copies of the Baldwin Class 10s. I'm using this and photos of them as a guide as to how to make them look. Note how they're clearly not OD green, even from the b/w film, unlike how the one on display at the Infantry/Armor museum there is now painted:

https://youtu.be/-BTtncKnS9k

I want to get a solider into the cab wearing herringbone twill fatigues or a coverall and what they called a "Daisy Mae hat," which sort of looks like a sailor's hat in dark color with the bill turned downward. Maybe he'd have a fireman with a steel pot on or not. But I need to find some 1/43 scale GI's to put inside this to show how small they really were! I'll also replace the plastic molded 'coal' bunker with real crushed coal and spill lots of it onto the cab deck.

One of the few Diesel locomotives I've always really liked is the GG-1. For years there was one parked on the tracks just to the east of Lancaster, Penna. I'd pass it whenever I took the train out to Lancaster to go to my printer, Science Press, located in Ephrata PA. 

There are lots of versions of this available, in all price ranges. I display them only, don't run them, so all the bells-and-whistles—literally!—don't interest me. 

Andrew,

Nice pics, and I like GG1's too (the traditional Lionel/Kline selectively compressed ones, the scale models just look wrong to my nostalgic eye), but they are electrics, not diesels

Lionelski posted:

Andrew,

Nice pics, and I like GG1's too (the traditional Lionel/Kline selectively compressed ones, the scale models just look wrong to my nostalgic eye), but they are electrics, not diesels

Yes, as a friend pointed out to me, electric. What was I thinking?

BTW, has anyone here ever bought anything from a place in Melbourne, Florida, "All About Toy Trains"?

Well, I didn't actually buy it. The guy threw it in with what I did buy!   LOL

Thinking I might electrify it with a smoke unit too and make it a smokin' rat rod loco.  LOL

          Andy,  like it ...  " smokin' rat rod loco "         gotta see it !

Lionelski posted:

We were at the Kennedy Space Center last week (we actually saw a rocket launch to the International Space Station - way cool!) and I bought these items  in a play set that I'm gonna detail and add to Cape Warrenaveral. More pics will follow when I get around to that.

I also picked up some cool 1:48 Star Wars figures in EPCOT, and a robot from South of the Border in SC that I will work on. 

The items from the children's play set purchased at Kennedy Space center have been detailed. The Lunar Rover is on the trailer that came with the pickup set I bought at Tractor supply last month. The Star War Storm Troopers purchased at Epcot are being thwarted by the good guys from the U.S. Army.

All this is now happening at Cape Warrenaveral. 

Wow guys, I see some great finds, congratulations and Merry Christmas. Some of my BTO items finally arrived at my hobby shop. Also, I finally visited Menards and found a cool sign, one that was advertised in OGR The Magazine. 

Not super exciting but something I've been looking to get for a while. Been in need of more small gauge wire for projects/ engine repair. I found a nice set of 6 colors 20 ga X 25' stranded wire. The dispenser box is a nice bonus too.

Well Wednesday made my monthly safari to "Wally World."  And as somewhat normal took the path down past the die-cast toy cars.  I picked this up, not sure why.

Ron 

RSJB18 posted:

Not super exciting but something I've been looking to get for a while. Been in need of more small gauge wire for projects/ engine repair. I found a nice set of 6 colors 20 ga X 25' stranded wire. The dispenser box is a nice bonus too.

That's what I have been using for the last couple of years, the silicone coated insulation variety - love the stuff. But.... sooner or later, that will look like a ****'s Angel's hair hanging out from under his helmet after a 4 hr ride! They tangle pretty easy. 

Somebody shared their suggestion on how to keep the tangling to a minimum where this type of box dispenser is used - with a stick running through the spools. Danged if I can find it again, but sure wish I could. 

How about it, anyone remember that post?

GeoPeg posted:

RSJB18 posted:

Not super exciting but something I've been looking to get for a while. Been in need of more small gauge wire for projects/ engine repair. I found a nice set of 6 colors 20 ga X 25' stranded wire. The dispenser box is a nice bonus too.

 

That's what I have been using for the last couple of years, the silicone coated insulation variety - love the stuff. But.... sooner or later, that will look like a ****'s Angel's hair hanging out from under his helmet after a 4 hr ride! They tangle pretty easy. 

Somebody shared their suggestion on how to keep the tangling to a minimum where this type of box dispenser is used - with a stick running through the spools. Danged if I can find it again, but sure wish I could. 

How about it, anyone remember that post?

Many years as a licensed electrician has taught me to never let the tension off the spools. As soon as that happens the spool looks like a slinky after a bad fall down the stairs.

I totally agree with Bob!  Also, if you want to straighten a wire, tighten the end in a drill chuck and slowly run the drill in reverse while adjusting for tension until straight.

Looks like I've got an early Christmas present this year!

Junk sale bargains yesterday! They will all appear in future train lay-outs.

First "under the tree" set-up in over 50 years.......

Finally got my cars for the Christmas set 

Lou1985 posted:

I bought another project from my secret source. MTH Premier Santa Fe 3460 class Hudson 3464. It's never been run but is missing all the electronics and smoke unit. It just has the 9434 Pittman motor and drivetrain in the shell. It's a combination of 3464's shell and front truck with 3463's drive wheels and rear truck, which don't have white wall tires. No matter as I'll be removing the white walls from the front truck. This is going to be a Frankenstein project with the tender shell being from a Lionel 3751 class Northern (the final rebuild 3751 class Northerns used the same 20k gallon water capacity tender as the 3460 class Hudsons) and the chassis, trucks, and toolboxes coming from a MTH Premier Blue Goose Hudson (the Blue Goose was a streamlined 3460 class Hudson). Everything will be PS3 controlled when it's done. I'll be taking pictures as I go through the project and I'll start a post with all the pictures when it's done. Should be a fun project after the holidays. This is my 3rd Premier Santa Fe 3460 class Hudson. I already have 3463 and 3460 (The Blue Goose). Needless to say I like this model.

 

And I thought NYC had some big hudsons.They got nothingon the santa fe locomotives.I have a railking santa fe northern ps3.I like santa fe steamers where oil burners.Being I am in the south east part of the country.There were a few railroads on the eastern seaboard that had oil burner steam locomotives.One that I know of Seaboard Air Line had a few that served my home town of monroe n.c.Its now CSX.I sure some one say a few other railroads.But I am only speaking Seaboard here.I have a few Mohawks(mountain type in the southeast)I am going to do some work on the tenders to oil tenders.

While Lionel's 1958 Scout Locomotives are apparently not in high demand, This set was in such pristine condition and at such reasonable price, I had to give myself a present!

Merry Christmas

Peace on Earth Goodwill to Men

Tim

Peter Araujo, nice passenger car, and have you tried the sounds out? My dealer is placing people in my car which I plan to pick up next month and I’m hoping Lionel did a great job in the car. It’s beautiful. FL9TURBO2, your Christmas Diesel is Beautiful to, wow. There’s lots of nice purchases showing up today. Merry Christmas Everyone. I heard that Santa is on the move....Happy Railroading 

New Lionel Legacy J3A Hudson #5410

I'm the only one on this forum to have one of these on his train lay-out.

          It fires images of pirates in four directions, and then you try to shoot the pirates with a flashlight pistol before they disappear. It will be part of my "Knights of Atlantis" lay-out in January. I'll probably replace the skeleton with smaller pirates, though.

PART 1: Splitting this into 2 parts based on when they were purchased. Everything below is in the 10 or so days before 12/27. A lot to catch up on here- finally "made the leap" to buying a Proto 3 diesel! Bought some new rolling stock to go with my engine, some accessories(after the NJT pics), some more military items to add to add to the layout and a postwar passenger car by a lesser known postwar manufacturer. Well- just see below and I hope enjoy the pics and videos! Due to the amount of pictures/videos, I'll split it into two posts. This one focusing on my main purchase- an MTH Premier NJT P40 cab #4300.

Leading off, my first Proto 3 engine of any kind. Bolted down to Nick Smith's on the 23rd, hadan idea of what I wanted but ended up getting something totally different. :

On the Christmas day temp carpet layout

Christmascarpet layout. First time enjoying using command control of2 engines on the same track. My 1st command engine, Lionel TMCC Amtrak Dash 9, is on the siding. Other new items pictured are a Flyer 15b  transformer(off to the right) , Lionel Yard Lights, and an MTH workhouse(both by the siding)

I've found out, afterwards, finding rolling stck/NJT passenger cars is going to be rather difficult. For now, this guy will be leading Amtrak or Long Island Consists

2 LIRR K-line passenger cars I picked up on consignment at an LHS. Gotta go back for the 3rd one. 

NJT video

MTH workhouses, Flyer 15b, and a really cool pick-up for anyone who likes adding a little military theme- boxed Corgi WW2 1:50 scale diorama with 3 diecast soldiers and a tank. There were 5 othersuch dioramas made.

The Corgi Diorama unboxed

Finally, the end part 1, here's an American Model Trains/Auburn Model Trains Santa Fe Observation car with a fluted roof. I have 3 other AMT Santa Fe passengers already(2 are the same)- a coach, combine and now this Obs. Car which is the first one I have that has the Fluted roof:

PART 2: 

My post Christmas purchases as I still prep for expanding my layout. Let me preface by saying on top of my day job, I referee basketball so that really padded my spending money prior to Christmas. Let me also preface with a description of the hobby shop from where I bought the pieces below this past weekend. The main shop has a bunch of new MTH and Lionel trains, accessories, transformers, track, etc... But that's not why I went, I went because I heard tales that this shop has "sheds" that are open only on Saturday with new, NOS, or used discounted items- this tale turned out to be true AND there was an extra 25% off sale! Prewar, postwar and modern. N, HO, S, O, and Standard Gauge. Lionel, MTH, K-line, plasticville, industrial rail, Williams, OLR, Intermountain, Marx, Atlas O and more. Engines, buildings, kits, operating accessories, track, RTR sets in the box, prewar engines in OB and not in box, MTH Proto 2 or 3, spent a good 3 hours in those sheds. 

Leading off is an unexpected purchase, but likely my favorite- An MTH 30-1167-1 PRR 6-8-6 Bantam Steam Turbine with Proto Sound 2. Wasn't boxed or in a case like the other engines that were in that shed. As I was looking at it, a worker passed by and said he'd take 50% off. Tested it out and it's been running on my layout ever since! While it is older(2000) and NO WHERE NEAR SCALE(same size as my postwar 2056), it's a real switch-up for me as I rarely run steam engines. That said, I really enjoy running it!

Chugging down the mainline.

12-wheel Pennsy tender

Running a Bethlehem steel consist. The depressed flat car in the back is something I purchased there as well. Was very happy that it had the "Bethlehem Plant" name.

Video of this steamer running:

Now on to the other items. Another shot of the Corgi diorama. The soldiers are new and are O-line Repro soldiers from ebay.

Hobby shop purchases: The building to the right is a large MTH Public Works building. Rather plain but plan on adding some detail, and, it''s plain exterior leaves it's function open to interpretation(military depot?). The tan jeeps are K-line "Operation freedom", Red Horse Van is a Dinky Toy, then the fastrack grade crossing. I really like the grade crossing and missed the opportunity to buy it on the cheap about 1 year ago, so I definitely had to snag this one.

Next 2 pictures: Older MTH premier National Cab Company reefer(cupler is a little 'loose' so I'll gave to fix that) and a working Lionel FasTrack operating track section. MTH Realtrax O-31 operating turnout. A Postwar European Bridge/viaduct by Kibri(1949--1956) that has some neat detailing underneath with what I assume are clouds. On top of that is a prewar AF o gauge coach.

Haven't had the chance to play around with the realtrax turn-out yet but it is my first non-tubular operating turn-out. Have the perfect spot for it too.

Kibri Viaduct, the boxes for the 2 RMT cars( Bethlehem Steel Depressed Flat and Navy Caboose) in the background.

RMT Bethlehem Steel Depressed Flat and U.S. Navy light blue caboose(Pearl Harbor commemorative edition) with marker lights.

Sorry, I don't have any better pictures of the big Public Works Building. Very happy and fortunate to have been able to find these at such great deals. 

Got this off ebay.

I'd ridden the railroad in 2003, but they didn't have hats like this back then.

stevefrompa - you have a very eclectic collection.  I like it.

AGHRMatt posted:

Another UP Heritage Locomotive. MTH did a really good job. Unfortunately, I couldn't pull a train with it as i'm out of Kadees.

I really like the UP Powered By Our People engine. I am looking forward to seeing the Lionel version. Nice addition 👍

I had a very good Christmas this year! I picked up my second MTH PS-3 engine. A PRR Trainmaster on eBay  several days before the holiday. It’s a smooth running engine. Then on Christmas Eve I found a Chicago RR Club PS-1 boxcar at a great price on eBay. And a Christmas gift from my wife was a PRR CoupolaCam Caboose. It works pretty well right out of the box. But I want to play with the settings. 

A Regular Dr. Pepper.

On the 3R train front, a PW Lionel 611.  Not the J.  The 1957 "NW2" switcher.  In Jersey Central.  Everything in running order.  Body good shape.  Cost a little more than two new Menards boxcars.  At a dealer at a TCA meet in Houston TX.

I put the NW2 in quotes because the trucks on the switcher makes it look like cross between a NW2 ahnd the 1970's MP15DC.

I took the shell off, and did oil the engine.  The truck/motor combo looks like the one MPC would use later in their first GP and F3 units.  Or am I seeing things.

Buy anything cool lately? Yes

Picked this up yesterday by RailKing. Detroit Fire Department Boxcar. Being from Detroit, this was a must buy.  A sidebar note; when I was 3 years old a Detroit Fireman came to our house and safe my life.

Gary

Picked up this K-line Plymouth from forum member @L.I.TRAIN. Now my new Menards box car has proper power to move it

RSJB18 posted:

Picked up this K-line Plymouth from forum member @L.I.TRAIN. Now my new Menards box car has proper power to move it

That is the coolest switcher.  I have always admired NH paint schemes.  Winning combo with the Menards car.   

Dominic, a Dr Pepper is cool indeed.  I have a Jersey Central 621 NW2.  It is the only PW diesel I have, so I am no expert on what the 611 should look like.

Gary, sharp car!

Bob, The Plymouth is great looking!  

Jetsey Central 611 I got Saturday.  Actually, it was in the back of the dealer display.  The orange and blue called out to be in a new home.

But did the CNJ ever had any of their switchets in this livery?  Even if not EMD?  Too bad if they did not.

Also got a gey 6419 light grey boom tender.

I bought a diesel train set today that will be a mainstay in my "Knights of Atlantis" lay-out.

Lionel 1939 Pacemaker Set, 2 coach add on set and the Station/Train Sounds Diner Car

I just received this postwar Lionel 54 ballast tamper which works great. It did not come with any trip mechanism, so I improvised with a quick solution of using a popsicle stick wedged between the adjustment housing and the IR housing of the Lionel 153-IR activation unit. You can see what I am referring to on the right side of the photo. I have to rig up something similar for the other side of the track further down.

Hmmmm; these arrived late last week in one shipping box. Wonder what they could be? Maybe a matched set?

paulp575 posted:

Hmmmm; these arrived late last week in one shipping box. Wonder what they could be? Maybe a matched set?

Well look at that! Been wanting these for quite a while.

paulp575,

Woah!  Promontory Point, 1869!  Really sharp looking!!

Today, my friend Owen Fox, from Nashville, Tennessee  came to my home with his new Lionel Legacy & Blue Tooth NC&St.L Mountain Steam Locomotive. It ran superbly and is simply beautiful. I hope everyone is having a good week. 

My little man has been saving every penny family gave him for Christmas, birthdays, etc. ever since his 8th birthday in 2018...he finally broke the bank and purchased the Tri Rail he's been wanting for the past 2 years...he's quite excited!  He got some construction equipment for Christmas...you can see that he's in full swing digging out the future quarry.  He also bought a few cars so the workers who don't use Tri Rail can get to work.

Larry, That is a great looking locomotive Owen has.  Yes, I'm having a good week, and seeing Owen's happy face made my week a bit better!!

Canes RR, Congratulations to your son for buying a fine looking set and for learning the same lesson my dad had me learn over 50 years ago.  I had to save money for I don't know how long to buy my first train when I was about 12.

Thank you Mark, Owen and I have been friends for over 40 years and his train room is nice, he just happened to have this engine in his car and I asked him if we could check it out. He was glad we did, it’s a good looking Steamer. It’s nice that it worked right out of the box. He also has the L&N Mountain Steamer that we will Test next week. Wow, we also ran trains today. I just bought a Walmart lighted building for my train room. It was on sale. Happy Railroading everyone.

leapinlarry posted:

Today, my friend Owen Fox, from Nashville, Tennessee  came to my home with his new Lionel Legacy & Blue Tooth NC&St.L Mountain Steam Locomotive. It ran superbly and is simply beautiful. I hope everyone is having a good week. 

Nice looking dixie steam locomotive.I come to like the mountain type steamers.I have 4 of them.Mine are MTH railking and they pull very well.

Found a Weaver Crusader locomotive and car set:

Regards

Fred

sncf231e posted:

Found a Weaver Crusader locomotive and car set:

Regards

Fred

A great find!  I settled on the MTH Rail King version see little hopes of finding this set.

Ron

Well, the end of 2019 was tough on the old wallet... first I had the Lionel PRR J-1a and then the NYC J3a Hudson. Now...

First up, I received the two 3rd Rail PA’s I ordered from the second run - a D&H and a second New Haven...

The last items weren’t such a big hit since a Grzyboski gift certificate I got for Christmas paid for most of it - in homage to my quasi “lawn-guy-lin” roots, a Lionel C-420 and Dashing Dan caboose...

Haven’t had time to run them yet - that will be tomorrow’s adventure. I have to find some unused numbers on my Cab2!!! 

I think I’m swearing off engines  

Apples55 posted:

Well, the end of 2019 was tough on the old wallet... first I had the Lionel PRR J-1a and then the NYC J3a Hudson. Now...

First up, I received the two 3rd Rail PA’s I ordered from the second run - a D&H and a second New Haven...

The last items weren’t such a big hit since a Grzyboski gift certificate I got for Christmas paid for most of it - in homage to my quasi “lawn-guy-lin” roots, a Lionel C-420 and Dashing Dan caboose...

Haven’t had time to run them yet - that will be tomorrow’s adventure. I have to find some unused numbers on my Cab2!!! 

I think I’m swearing off engines  

When programming into Cab remote I try to use number on engine. Easier for me to remember that way.😁👍

Joe Gozzo

Apples55 posted:

 

I'm so jealous! There is so much great stuff coming out right now, but that is one of the sharpest locomotives I've seen in while! Enjoy!!

Nice!  We only have 4 locos right now but a pretty small layout that can only run 2 at a time...I have to rein my little man in...every time we go to Ready to Roll he wants to buy another one...hopefully his latest Tri Rail purchase calms that down for a bit...can't blame him but he needs to get a job 😁

OliverCliffs posted:

Apples55 posted:

 

I'm so jealous! There is so much great stuff coming out right now, but that is one of the sharpest locomotives I've seen in while! Enjoy!!

Techno-Peasant is CLEARLY a misnomer, Paul. 

To my wallet's good health, I have limited my locomotive faves to EMC/D E and F units--no Alcos, Baldwins, etc.

Also, Paul, your LIONEL bridge was again a particularly nice feature of the Christmas layout.

NOS K-Line Scale smoking caboose.  The level of detail is so good, it makes nearly everything else on the layout look toylike. 

So my Christmas order from North Lima Train Works arrived today (actually a replacement order for the original order lost by FedEx) in the big box.

 The first part of this LIONEL Union Pacific parts order were the “Chatham” coach; “Clifton” combo car; “Plainfield” vista dome coach; and, large door baggage car shells, along with their respective interiors and frames.  The trucks and couplers were ordered and received when LIONEL had its 50% off sale in November.  (Top to bottom are the "Plainfield," "Clifton," "Chatham," and large door baggage cars.)

These four UP cars were part of the LIONEL 6-31712 Anniversary set of seven cars and Alco diesels.  I initially bought the three I already had as donors for NP North Cost Limited and Great Northern Empire Builder smooth-sided, 15” aluminum passenger cars, but decided they are too nice to paint and chose, instead, to complete the seven car set and find donor E or F units to repaint to match.

 During the LIONEL sale, I also bought Pullmor motors and F-3 front motor trucks for them.  For some reason, the rear motor trucks were not available or over-priced compared to NLTW’s price, so my NLTW order also included two rear F-3 motor trucks. 

I feel fortunate to have acquired the motors and trucks at favorable prices since they are replacement components for those same items that were lost in a recent move from GA to VA.  There were a few miscellaneous parts also, but that's all for now.

And, again, props to NLTW for getting to me so quickly these replacements for those lost by FedEx.

Was able to pick up a KLine NYC Smoking Woodside Caboose 

Trainlover160 posted:

Apples55 posted:

Well, the end of 2019 was tough on the old wallet... first I had the Lionel PRR J-1a and then the NYC J3a Hudson. Now...

First up, I received the two 3rd Rail PA’s I ordered from the second run - a D&H and a second New Haven...

 

The last items weren’t such a big hit since a Grzyboski gift certificate I got for Christmas paid for most of it - in homage to my quasi “lawn-guy-lin” roots, a Lionel C-420 and Dashing Dan caboose...

 

Haven’t had time to run them yet - that will be tomorrow’s adventure. I have to find some unused numbers on my Cab2!!! 

I think I’m swearing off engines  

When programming into Cab remote I try to use number on engine. Easier for me to remember that way.😁👍

Joe Gozzo

Thanks Joe... I did consider that, but with the number of engines I have, it didn’t seem practical - too many similarly numbered engines. I decided to group my engines by type - steam, electrics, diesels, and “other”. Unfortunately, due to my insatiable appetite for new engines, the groups have been running into one another. I’ve got to sort out what is still available. I really don’t think I want to renumber engines...  

Thanks apple.

See Brian, there is a New Hampshire, errr New Haven, engine in almost Pullman GREEN!!!!

 

Bought this Atlas BNSF PS-4750 covered hopper via eBay a week or so ago.  It arrived, opened up the box and low and behold it’s the 2 rail version.  I thought it was 3 rail.  I reread the listing and could find nothing that said it was either version, but looking again at the picture of the end of the box and sure enough it says 2 rail.  I need to look at the pictures more closely.  I contemplated sending it back but then I remembered that I had read in thread here on the forum that the Kadee couplers will mate with with 3 rail couplers just fine.  Sure enough they do!  So I’m keeping the car.

In the last week I picked two new Lionel 48' Husky Stacks, a Menards - Express Railway Agency truck, and some Arttista pieces (a Hobo hiding and two men playing checkers on a bench).

Morning everyone, I know they may not be cool to a lot of you. But I went to the local train show yesterday and was able to pick up 9 gondolas and 1 New Haven switcher, along with 4 bottles of Grass for my layout. I got it all for $200 is for me it was a good day!

In due time all will get Kadee couplers and either a BNSF or BN repaint! Yes Bob including the New Haven Switcher!

My new K-Line Motorcraft RailRoadster , ready for it's first deliveries. 

Well guys, there’s lots of good looking pictures posted, and now that the new 2020 catalog has landed, merchandise from the 2019 Lionel catalog just landed. My 21 inch full Vistadome StationSounds car arrived. Also my friend Owen Fox received his new L&N mountain Steamer. Both are great models. Happy Railroading.

Williams new orange juice switcher 

I acquired the above items in trade for some old HO stuff.

Lot's of great new stuff on everyone's railroads!

I just spotted these on the F/S forum from member @Mike A. Scooped them up in an instant.

So now Paul needs to send me his new D&H ALCO PA to pull them behind....... (I know....it won't run on 027 curves)

RSJB18 posted:

Lot's of great new stuff on everyone's railroads!

I just spotted these on the F/S forum from member @Mike A. Scooped them up in an instant.

So now Paul needs to send me his new D&H ALCO PA to pull them behind....... (I know....it won't run on 027 curves)

Very nice cars, Bob... but your suggestion reminds me of a song from my youth...

One toke over the line
Sittin' downtown in a railway station
One toke over the line... 

Haven't gotten it yet but I bought a Lionel 6-28051 BALTIMORE & OHIO EM-1 2-8-8-4 LOCOMOTIVE & TENDER.

But it puts me to rethink my layout I'm doing. as It requires O-72 curves or better. Do I stop my build until I can get O-80 or larger curves and redo the outside loop ( only one done yet ) which would require to moving and rewiring 12 switches. I would have to move them down about 16" which I think I will just have the room to do so. I need to look and see if I do, it will be close. But then I will be able to it on two loops instead of it being stuck just on one loop.

Nice finds at the Roundhouse in Louisville Ky. yesterday, Williams L&N GP9's and signs.

Jeff

Love that place!!!  I am in Jeffersonville. 

Yeah, last good place left in Louisville and Kevin is always ready to deal! 

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

Beautiful engines, Mark. I love GG1 s. Enjoy it.

Thank you Pat!  It is definitely without blemish!!

Mark Boyce posted:

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

You can send it to me, and I'll test it out on my O-72 curves for you 

Mark Boyce posted:

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

Mark - a beauty for sure!  Very nice purchase!  Enjoy!

You may already know this ... Williams scale GG1's will run on 042 curves.  I have two Williams scale GG1s and they handle 042 just fine.... just in case you ever get the hankering to have one run around your layout.   Of course the Williams doesn't have all the great sound effects as the MTH Proto 2.   

That's a beauty Mark. Enjoy!

Will it fit on the ceiling central?

Bob

rtraincollector posted:

Mark Boyce posted:

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

You can send it to me, and I'll test it out on my O-72 curves for you 

trumptrain posted:

Mark Boyce posted:

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

Mark - a beauty for sure!  Very nice purchase!  Enjoy!

You may already know this ... Williams scale GG1's will run on 042 curves.  I have two Williams scale GG1s and they handle 042 just fine.... just in case you ever get the hankering to have one run around your layout.   Of course the Williams doesn't have all the great sound effects as the MTH Proto 2.   

RSJB18 posted:

That's a beauty Mark. Enjoy!

Will it fit on the ceiling central?

Bob

Bill, Thank you!  That's a nice offer. The best form of admiration of a model!  

Pat, Thank you, I did not know about the Williams one.  I think one will be enough; at least for the foreseeable future.

Bob, I think it could, I have broader curves.  The trouble will be the overhang hitting the ceiling anchors and my two jogs in the wall.  For now, I can't even think about getting up on a ladder.  Also, it is quite heavy, I don't want to drop it trying to hoist it up there.  

I just picked up a beauty, a Williams 4-8-4 in Southern livery.

Picked these up from the Amherst Show day one's haul. The crane car needs a new hook and string. The tank car will be stripped and redone it was free so could not say no lol.

VistaDomeScott posted:

Williams new orange juice switcher 

That is one sharp looking switcher.

FedEx brought this to my door today.  From the way it was packaged and the lack of wear on the rollers and wheels I think it had never even been taken out of the box!  I replaced the battery and the speaker and fired her up.  Runs great!!!!

This completes my Freedom Train steam engine roster (T&P 610, T1 and GS-4) and will soon be pulling the train around the club layout.

Rolland

My Bush # 41 train is complete! Got this in the mail the other day:

Add it to my Bush 41 caboose:

And finally the loco:

Great to have all three!

Got it in today, ( My 65th birthday present to myself ( a little early, Saturday is my birthday ). Someone mentioned about the distance between the engine and the tender because of the draw bar length, unless some one shortened this one, I would think if you did the two would hit in corners. 

Bill, Great present!  Happy birthday!

Sorry for the late entry but here’s some cars my wife bought me for Christmas. 2 of them are Lionel o27 and 1 is a Standard O 

Just received my latest shipment of brand new LIONEL parts from North Lima Train Works.  These will allow me to complete the “Ghost Train” of UP 15” aluminum passenger cars from the Anniversary set, 6-31712.  Basically, I purchase the shell, interior and frames from NLTW and the trucks/couplers from LIONEL during the 50% off sale.  It’s a feasible, cost-effective way to have new items that are hard to come by otherwise.  I will post a thread of the 7 car set when I have them assembled.

Here are a couple of examples (the trucks and frames aren’t shown):

The “Clifton” combination car:

 The “Chatham” coach car:

I'm fortunate that the primary components are available from NLTW and LIONEL.  However, not everything is available.  For example with this project, neither has the under frame detail for the Clifton that attaches under the frame and is visible from the side view.  And, as I've learned, even though LIONEL's website may say a part is available from NLTW, that is not always the case.

Seven car photos will come in time.  In the meanwhile, check-out LIONEL's website for that particular piece you wish you had purchased and, just maybe, you can make a "ghost" version.

rtraincollector posted:

Got it in today, ( My 65th birthday present to myself ( a little early, Saturday is my birthday ). Someone mentioned about the distance between the engine and the tender because of the draw bar length, unless some one shortened this one, I would think if you did the two would hit in corners. 

Nice.  Happy Birthday Bill those are the best presents the ones you buy 

trumptrain posted:

Mark Boyce posted:

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

Mark - a beauty for sure!  Very nice purchase!  Enjoy!

You may already know this ... Williams scale GG1's will run on 042 curves.  I have two Williams scale GG1s and they handle 042 just fine.... just in case you ever get the hankering to have one run around your layout.   Of course the Williams doesn't have all the great sound effects as the MTH Proto 2.   

Am I correct to assume if you convert a Williams scale GG-1 to either DCS or TMCC that it will still run great on 42 inch curves since only the electronics of the engine would be changed and nothing mechanical?

RLaHaie posted:

FedEx brought this to my door today.  From the way it was packaged and the lack of wear on the rollers and wheels I think it had never even been taken out of the box!  I replaced the battery and the speaker and fired her up.  Runs great!!!!

This completes my Freedom Train steam engine roster (T&P 610, T1 and GS-4) and will soon be pulling the train around the club layout.

Rolland

I think AFT 610 was the underated loco of the three.  Then again she only ran Austin to Houston to the Metroplex.

ogaugeguy posted:

trumptrain posted:

Mark Boyce posted:

Those who know me know I usually buy Western Maryland and occasionally B&O.  However I have been looking for one of these for the right price for a long time.  I remember the PRR in Western Pennsylvania, but never saw the PRR or its successors under catenary.  A forum member had this PS2 one NIB at a really great price!!  No I can’t run it on my 042 curves but it checked out great on a straight away after a battery and lube.

Mark - a beauty for sure!  Very nice purchase!  Enjoy!

You may already know this ... Williams scale GG1's will run on 042 curves.  I have two Williams scale GG1s and they handle 042 just fine.... just in case you ever get the hankering to have one run around your layout.   Of course the Williams doesn't have all the great sound effects as the MTH Proto 2.   

Am I correct to assume if you convert a Williams scale GG-1 to either DCS or TMCC that it will still run great on 42 inch curves since only the electronics of the engine would be changed and nothing mechanical?

I see no reason why not.  But must admit it has been a long time since I have been inside my Williams GG!.

Ron

I converted a Williams to TMCC back some time ago and it ran great on my O-42 curves. 

Picked up a MTH Premier Western Pacific GS64 from my usual source. It's from the PS2 5V run made in the early 2000s. Never been run and it's missing all it's electronics. Little rough around the edges but with a bit of effort and this will end up being Southern Pacific GS6 number 4460. Shooting for about a 1950 or so appearance. 

Lou, beautiful!  PS2 5 volts unused is always a deal for me 

Lou1985 posted:

Picked up a MTH Premier Western Pacific GS64 from my usual source. It's from the PS2 5V run made in the early 2000s. Never been run and it's missing all it's electronics. Little rough around the edges but with a bit of effort and this will end up being Southern Pacific GS6 number 4460. Shooting for about a 1950 or so appearance. 

Fascinating post, Lou. But what do you mean that it is missing all its electronics?

Picked up a CTA subway set and an Amtrak heritage unit. 

Love the CTA set... And my kids & I are still loving the Amtrak set I picked up at ORD from your wife!

cheers!

Tom

Vincent Massi posted:

Lou1985 posted:

Picked up a MTH Premier Western Pacific GS64 from my usual source. It's from the PS2 5V run made in the early 2000s. Never been run and it's missing all it's electronics. Little rough around the edges but with a bit of effort and this will end up being Southern Pacific GS6 number 4460. Shooting for about a 1950 or so appearance. 

Fascinating post, Lou. But what do you mean that it is missing all its electronics?

I mean no PS2 5V boards in the boiler, no tether, no tender board, no speaker, no volume knob, no smoke on/off switch, no smoke unit. Gutted of all electronics. The only thing in the locomotive is the Pittman motor and driveline. Tender is completely empty. It'll get a PS3 steam upgrade kit and all LED lighting when it's done. It's been bounced around a bit as it was a parts source, so the tender shell is going to need a wet sand and repaint to get rid of some scuffs (already removed the WP lettering with lacquer thinner). Locomotive itself is mostly fine. Just a couple small nicks to touch up and the white running board trim is going to be removed. 

I've gotten this GS and two of my three Premier Santa Fe Hudsons this way. 3460 Blue Goose, which is fully functional with a PS3 steam kit and all LED lighting installed. 3464 which has a tender shell from a Lionel 3751 Northern (same 20k gallon water tender as a 3460 class Hudson) and the frame and trucks from a MTH Premier Blue Goose tender. Waiting on decals to reletter the tender and then 3464 will get a PS3 steam kit as well. 

I got these from a gentleman who knows the guy who buys all the MTH warranty returns and extra models produced as parts sources. Hence why all the electronics are stripped out of them. I'm not revealing who or where that person is, as I have to protect my source 😁.

That sounds like a good friend to have Lou.

Nice way to get premier electronics without breaking the bank.

When 4014 came through Alpine, TX late last year, several of us set up at the 5th street crossing facing the depot. This included noted railroad historian Steve Goen, and an artist from Odessa, TX with a retro 4x5 Field Folding View camera. He refers to himself as “Chuck 4x5”.  I purchased the result of his work.  This type of camera produces an image that can be enlarged to poster size without losing sharpness. 

Got some neat stuff online recentlyfor my layout expansion. Unfortunately Missed 2 train shows for which I had been putting some cash away due to an illness and another head injury(deja by all over again- same as last year at this time). That said, just means more saved up for Allentown’s spring thaw or a great LHS/flea market- when I’m feeling better and have a ride. Before that- have to comment on some of the great stuff that’s been posted on this page!

@Mark Boyce that is a beautiful GG-1! Looks like it’s in awesome shape, one of these days I gotta get me one! Very nice! 

@paulp575 congrats on completing your #41 UP !! At first, that train didn’t appeal to me much even though I always liked the fact that when I was younger, being a few months older than my friends, I could boast about having been alive for Bush being in office(they were too but well, dumb kids ha). Regardless, have really come to like the Bush Memorial Train. Very elegant, beautiful colors. Truly will forever be “one of a kind “ just like those trains that carried our presidents in the past. What an awesome idea, and tribute, by MTH. Again, congrats on completing that!

@RSJB18 love those cylindrical hoppers! Man do they compliment each other Great with the inverse colors- awesome get!

@Billyted I’d say it looks like you made out quite well on that trade! I love those MTH passenger cars! My LHS has the PRR equivalent which I’ve been thinking of getting ever since I picked up my first proto 2 steamer about 2 months ago which is a PRR. But what a haul overall!(rhyming not intended ha). Great Northern colors are awesome, happy to see that the Valley(where I live) is represented there as well! 

@Lou1985 and @rtraincollector while I like diesels more, ever since I bought my first proto 2 steamer and got a DCS System I’ve regrow my appreciation for them. If I had those guys, since my layout is in the basement, I’d say there’s a monster down there! Not only awesomely big but, as usual, the detail is superb. RT- love the B&O so that makes it even better and I agree about what you said regarding the length of the bar. Lou- while I have few western or southern RR names(focus on the North East) I have an appreciation for those RRs and that Western Pacific is neat, really like the tender! Love that Santa Fe as well!

@bigtruckpete you had me at Amtrak ha. Very neat engine, I’m happy that the some of the manufacturers followed suit in making the heritage units of the Genesis just as Amtrak did. Always like the early phase scheme on the Genesis(an engine for which I’ve gained further appreciation like the steamers)-really cool.

All around, great Saturday pics everyone! Keep’em coming!

And how could I forget My pick-ups over the last month:

Ive had the Amtrak Dummy on the right, but was happy to get this Septa Shell(love commuter rail). Below you’ll see my first MTH engine which I got last December- the MTH AEM-7 with proto 1(how I wish it was the proto 3). Hoping to eventually gather enough to make that Septa into a a nice non-powered unit. Hopefully, get lucky and find another Dummy in the cheap(Can’t bring myself to disassemble either AEM-7 pictured at this time.

Took the above Picture to show my love for Amtrak and Commuter Rail. Lionel TMCC dash-9 next to my favorite- MTH NJT P42DC Genesis. Transitions back to PA with the Septa AeM-7 Shell in the middle and then my ode to the Amtrak electrics I have with the Phase IVb(?) and Phase III AEM-7s.

Picked up this MTH amfleet Passenger car to replace one of mine that had an accident. I wish MTH would make the 16” coaches in NJT livery again which they cancelled 4 years ago.in the meantime, I had been alternating between having the NJT Genesis run the Amtrak coaches and this LiRR K-line set that I picked up on the cheap at one of my LHS. Size leaves something to be desired but good price and decent cars

Layout renovation and other pics on the way...

I’m big on interweaving some type of battle/conflict into my layout so I’ve been picking up appropriately sized soldiers and figures representing different backgrounds/ from all walks of life when I can. First a video of a Postwar car I’ve always wanted and got in mail on Friday- AEC security car. Also new- I purchased the MTH radar tower which was “broken”- easy fix. Will look nice with my next next UN base. 

Above are 2 Corgi “Forward March” 1:50 scale WW dioramas. Diecast, come with 3 soldiers and a vehicle. They made 6 different ones and then 6 sets of soldiers as well. Examples of the soldiers are below, they’re “spin-cast”- just really great looking. Then there’s 2 sets of model power prisoners, over the last 3 months I’ve picked up 10 different MP sets on Amazon for 5.17 each with tax and free shipping. If you want figures and don’t mind Model Power- definitely check it out!

bachmann businessmen also amazon. And a bag of 25 1:50 scale people of Middle-Eastern descent for less than $10 on eBay.

finally, from eBay, metal track workers or construction workers. I believe they’re comet/authenticast(whoever used to make figures for Flyer) but they’re perfect with my other o scale figures.

Cant wait to be able to post shots of when all this comes together!

Nice LIRR cars Steve. They are from the Greenport Scoot set that K-line made. The set originally came with a MP-15 and PA dummy unit.

RSJB18 posted:

That sounds like a good friend to have Lou.

Nice way to get premier electronics without breaking the bank.

I got the locomotives. I still have/had to buy all the PS3 electronics on my own .

@RSJB18 thank you! Those cars had been sitting there for months at my LHS- then a couple months ago I believe you posted the above pictures with some info and it was kind of the “voice of approval” to get the cars- especially as I looked for something commuter rail related between New York, jersey and eastern pPa- so I have to thank you for that one! I wish the Mp-15 and the Dummy woulda been there too. 

Century Club RF-16 ABA set just purchased from a forum member is now the sexiest thing on my layout.   

Picked up a used Lionel Western Allegheny H10 for a song. Was returned once to a pawn shop. Took a gamble and all functions work perfectly including the cool swinging bell! 

N&W 1218 posted:

Picked up a used Lionel Western Allegheny H10 for a song. Was returned once to a pawn shop. Took a gamble and all functions work perfectly including the cool swinging bell! 

Great find!

Newest member of the roster... a scarce Lionel 6502 "red" flatcar with orange girder,

circa 1962-63. The 6502 was produced in red, black and blue with the red being most difficult. Not a very collectable item but very scarce.....

Tim Lewis convinced me a few weeks ago that I should stop buying engines for the time being and focus on buying rolling stock instead. I followed his directions and I did end up buying 4 pieces of rolling stock last week. Pictured down below:

The MTH ABB #204 Schnabel Flatcar is from eBay. The 2 Lionel Norfolk Southern Gondolas and Lionel Burlington Northern Caboose are from Mario's Trains. Everything works great and I am so glad that I decided to go with modeling a Schnabel train (sort of). The caboose works great and I have no issues with the wifi camera.

Although the Gondolas are not really ideal for the Schnabel train, since they are a lot taller than I was expecting and look a bit strange as buffer cars. But it gives the look of a Schnabel train pretty well. I plan on buying a few figures to put on the back of the engine, and in the ends of the caboose, to add a bit more immersion and realism. The Lionel Genset will most likely be the primary engine for this train, but I might also use my Lionel SD60E as well.

I do have one more engine coming next week, it was one that I could not stop thinking about when I saw it at The Original Whistle Stop when I was there on January the 18th.

StevefromPA posted:

Got some neat stuff online recently for my layout expansion. Unfortunately Missed 2 train shows for which I had been putting some cash away due to an illness and another head injury(deja by all over again- same as last year at this time). That said, just means more saved up for Allentown’s spring thaw or a great LHS/flea market- when I’m feeling better and have a ride. Before that- have to comment on some of the great stuff that’s been posted on this page!

@Mark Boyce that is a beautiful GG-1! Looks like it’s in awesome shape, one of these days I gotta get me one! Very nice! 

 

 

Steve, Thank you very much!!  It is nice and operates great on my straight away on this workbench.  Keep your eyes open, and you will find one!  Someone has one for sale everyday somewhere.

It looks like you have lots going on, and I can see where your interest in the GG1 comes from with the Amtrak electrics you have.  Me?  I just like the GG1. 

I'm sorry you are having health issues.  I have missed shows and layout building 2 winters also.  Last year it was 2 slipped discs in the lower back that damaged the sciatic nerves in the right leg.  That is a long if ever recovery.  This year I had the left knee replaced.  I am not complaining.  I would rather suffer with extremities than having head injuries!

I received my building kit from OGR today. Also got a few detail pieces to go with it.

Near mint Lionel Postwar 3650 Dark Gray Painted Version Search Light Car,

Lionel NS First Responders SD60 Engine, sealed in shipping carton.

I bought this bad boy 2 weeks ago off eBay. I saw one of these for sale at a hobby shop, a week prior to buying it, and I really wanted to get one for my collection after seeing it in person. So here it is! So far runs great, but I had to spend 1 - 2 hours to replace all the traction tires. Since they were cracked, I knew that getting in and thought it would be a fairly simple maintenance, but found out today that I needed to take the entire engine apart just to do the job. The job is done now at least, hopefully won't have to do that again...

I was 100% fine with having to do the work on the engine, since I also wanted to see the technology that was packed into the shell of this first run. Eventually I will buy matching passenger cars for this engine, but it's currently not a very high priority. I also have planned to upgrade all the lighting to LEDs at some point and even add in bi-color classification lights.