Lionel parts

Glenn,

Many years ago it was a common practice. It has been 30+ years since I ordered any new parts.

God Bless,

"Pappy"

It was a common practice for individuals to cannibalize trains for parts. There were a few individuals who specialized in breaking down trains for parts and selling them. Some parts dealers carried some used parts, but they were normally listed as used.

Lionel has made it known that they cannibalize broken trains, and they have also stated that they order extra completed pieces to break down for parts.

But as far as I know, Lionel did not do this sort of stuff before they moved their production off shore.

I'd rather have a good used part, than no part at all.

They're still doing it.  I just received a motor that was taken from a donor, and the "new" board I received also appeared to have already been installed in something as well.