train show locos

Wow - sorry to hear that Rusty.

I've purchased many locomotives at train shows with good results - and they were all bargains.

My trick is to get my wife's approval when we're at the show. In fact, a locomotive that has become one of my favorites was one I wasn't going to buy but she talked me into it.

Haven't had any major problems w/any engines I bought at train meets. I realize with my purchases they'll probably need the usual basic maintenance. I did have a few minor problems w/ a 400 Budd and 404 Budd. Both sales person claimed they ran great. The 400 Budd had a staple up in the running gears and the 404 Budd had a wire off the motor, no biggie, easy fixes.

On the other hand buying engines off FB, is another story. When buying off FB, I'll only use paypal "purchasing" and I'll add the extra 3% pp charge. I've walked away from a few good deals when the seller insist paypal friend and family.   

Doubt you’ll get a receipt from the small vendors, as most of them are cash & carry …..but to be sure some will, and certainly the big dog dealers will…….so evidently you purchased the thing cause you liked it, so start another thread with the make, model, and item # and let’s see what the grinding noise could possibly be…..could be something simple,….who knows,….

Pat

Every building or accessory I have purchased at shows does not work or has issues.
After being ripped off the first time, I keep this in mind on the price I pay for things.
As a result, I have never purchased a modern engine at a show. I have purchased a few tin plate engines but only one was a disappointment. Seems to run fine on test track but when I got home needs to be cranked to max voltage to start moving ... this was a 148.

Really sorry to hear that this is so common.   Given this, I think I will never buy a loco at a train show.  Seems like these "brother hobbyists" are just dumping junk on others for a quick buck.

My advice:  If you want a particular used loco, then put it on the Want to Buy section here and wait.  Sooner or later a Member will contact you saying that he has one, or something really close, at a fair price. 

I have bought several things from Members on this board, including two locos, and lots of rolling stock, and all of it was in good running condition and totally as described.

Mannyrock