Back in July I decided it was time to identify what American Flyer set I had as a kid, and set out to find a duplicate of that set.
In this thread you all helped me identify the set, and the extra cars. https://ogrforum.com/t...-s-or-1960-train-set
I contacted a few of the large, high-end Flyer collectors; but none of them had one. After some time, I decided to keep an eye on eBay for the engine and cars separately, in excellent condition. I had been checking eBay 4-5 times a day. I was ready to bid on the 977 caboose when I checked it again and there it was: Set #5620T, with the boxes, in the set box, with a very fantastic "Buy It Now" option and price. It had only been listed for 17 minutes. I couldn't read the description and look at the pictures fast enough to make sure it was in (at least) decent condition.
It arrived today. I oiled the engine and cars, cleaned the pick-up wheels and the track, and she runs like new! I am very happy with the condition of everything. I would have liked a "flawless" set, but wasn't finding one, and didn't know if I could afford one if I found it anyway. This set is great for me. I will be removing the elevated Lionel loop on my layout and replacing it with this train. I will be posting a few questions for you all about a couple things in the near future.
Thank you all for all of your help. I dearly missed the Flyer Choo-Choo sound and the way it smokes. Today, I am six years old again and this is awesooommmmeee!
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlI5tdyAUqo
Sincerely,
Rick