Got a lead from my in town, central Illinois, Lionel dealer on an individual wanting to sell some 036 command control switches as they are moving up to 60. Any pointers on questions to ask or what a fair price might be.
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Check on-line prices for new O36 command control switches and then consider what you are willing to risk (buying anything "used" is always a risk) to acquire used track with no warranty. Even if you see it work properly before being taken out and handed to you, there is no way to know what will happen the next time a command is given. You might also factor into that risk estimate how handy you are at mechanical and electrical repairs.
Chuck
I tend to use the "risk discount" method, meaning application of x% based on your analysis of the risk between this used item and new. So for these switches, they were operating in a functional layout (maybe a ton ????). Is the risk you are willing to take versus new 75%, 60%, or maybe 50% for example? This varies for each person and is a subjective opinion.
Know your seller. If you can see, or somehow know, that these switches are working on his layout, they will work on yours.
Go over and look at them. If they all work, ask the seller if YOU could remove them? If they are off the layout, test each one before you consider buying it. Be prepared to buy and remove every track switch on the layout. This isn'i rocket science. John
