When I was about 10-12 my dad built me a huge (huge to me) model train layout - about 6x8, two track sets, lots of buildings, mountains, lighted towns, railroad crossings etc. really sweet setup for a guy that wasnt into model trains. Any who - my interests changed and that stuff got boxed away. Fast foward almost 30 years and my son found them in boxes in my parents basement. He is almost 7 and has seen model trains and thinks they are pretty cool. My question to you pro's is: Is it worth it to try and revive these old trains and track? of course on the cars and buildings, they are in decent shape. I have two engines and lots of track. Should I buy new track since it has been in a basement for almost 30 years? It doesn't seem rusty. Maybe something has changed in the past 30 years in model railroading that I don't know about. Where do I start? Thanks in advance.
Help with old train stuff
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WesT, first, welcome to the forum! Second, revival is definitely a good option. There are three steps I'd recommend starting off with. First, check out the insulation on the transformer wires. A good, stiff electrical shock from frayed or crumbling insulation is not a necessary step in resurrecting your train. If the tranny is rusted or otherwise looks suspicious, consider replacement. They aren't very expensive, used, on ebay.
Step 2 is to lubricate your engine and cars before running them. We have some pretty good threads already posted on the process. Third, chean the track. Aging doesn't hurt it, but getting a scotchbrite pad and some mild, soapy cleaner will get the oxidation and gunk off the rail surfaces so they get a good electrical connection. Don't get any paper insulators wet, if you have any. We also have a very good thread on track cleaning. Get that puppy running and post some pics so we can see what you've got!
Step 2 is to lubricate your engine and cars before running them. We have some pretty good threads already posted on the process. Third, chean the track. Aging doesn't hurt it, but getting a scotchbrite pad and some mild, soapy cleaner will get the oxidation and gunk off the rail surfaces so they get a good electrical connection. Don't get any paper insulators wet, if you have any. We also have a very good thread on track cleaning. Get that puppy running and post some pics so we can see what you've got!
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16,705 Posts
Hey WesT,
Good advice there from Reckers about transformer safety, especially with kids around.
I was in a similar boat as you, recently, having dusted off my HO stuff from my kid days. Brass track, simple DC (non DCC) locos, etc. In building a new layout, I upgraded the transformer, but used as much old stuff as I could ... buildings, track, etc. I added some new nickel track, too (bit of a clash, there), but it doesn't bother me too much ... I like the fact that I'm reusing as much of my old stuff as possible. Nostalga, and all that.
My boys are 4 and 7. Though I did most of the construction of the layout, both boys had quite a bit of input into the design and theme. One likes horses, so we have a few barns and horse pens. The other like old-fashioned cars, so we went '50's style in the little town, with old pick-up trucks and the like.
So, get your son involved as much as possible ... you'll BOTH have a blast!
TJ
Good advice there from Reckers about transformer safety, especially with kids around.
I was in a similar boat as you, recently, having dusted off my HO stuff from my kid days. Brass track, simple DC (non DCC) locos, etc. In building a new layout, I upgraded the transformer, but used as much old stuff as I could ... buildings, track, etc. I added some new nickel track, too (bit of a clash, there), but it doesn't bother me too much ... I like the fact that I'm reusing as much of my old stuff as possible. Nostalga, and all that.
My boys are 4 and 7. Though I did most of the construction of the layout, both boys had quite a bit of input into the design and theme. One likes horses, so we have a few barns and horse pens. The other like old-fashioned cars, so we went '50's style in the little town, with old pick-up trucks and the like.
So, get your son involved as much as possible ... you'll BOTH have a blast!
TJ
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2,137 Posts
To Quote Dr. Fredrick Frawnkonshteeen from Young Frankenstein.."It's Alive, IT"S ALIVE<IT"S ALIVE!!!!!
congrats on your refound find and ditto to what the guys said....new tranny indeed!
congrats on your refound find and ditto to what the guys said....new tranny indeed!1 - 6 of 6 Posts
