Post your non-O scale stuff here!
All:
A friend got a 1977 Tyco HO train set. It comes with 4 or 5 cars, a 24" x 36" oval of track, but no powerpack. It's going to go to his grandkids. He's going to get it checked out at a train store, just to make sure the locomotive works.
Assuming that it does, what sort of inexpensive power supply / transformer would you recommend?
Many thanks,
George
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George, what age are the grandkids please?
If under 12 or 13, would highly recommend NOT giving them an old HO set! HO trains can be frustrating for younger kids, especially an old set like you have. When I had my retail hobby shop, I learned quickly not to sell HO to young children as the difficulties in keeping them on the track, small couplers, etc. were 'fun killers' for them.
Instead get them a good O gauge (or G) starter set with basic remote control and make sure an adult gets involved with them. This hobby is all about building bridges between the generations - don't miss that opportunity!
MRC 1370.
I don't think that the set is 24"x36". That would mean a 12" radius. The smallest HO curve made is 15" radius. Most sets come with 18" radius, resulting in a 36"x45" oval.
Stuart
Stuart, you are correct. I recalled it from memory incorrectly.
Thanks,
George
No matter how you slice it, 1970's Tyco's are only fair runners at best, and that was when they were new. Combine that with X2F couplers and an oval of brass track it's probably not going to go over that well with the grandkids.
An HO set from Athearn or Bachmann would be a better bet. The included track is better, everything has Kadee compatible couplers and a power pack is included.
Rusty
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