Hey MTH listen up.

Gary, I have the same issues. It's almost impossible to look up parts on MTH's website. I do repairs for our local train store. We sell and service only Lionel (no MTH). Therefore, fortunately, we don't have to deal with this frustration very often. It's unfortunate, because MTH does make great trains, and they are repairable with the correct parts support. When people ask for MTH parts or service, we recommend they contact MTH directly. We simply don't have the time or desire to chase down parts on the phone.

Geez like it's real tough to take a picture of the part you need and send it with an email along with a short note including MTH product number and what the part is to Midge...I mean really 

I agree with you Gary, 100%.

Many times I find myself looking at older runs of the same product which share the same components to get the right part number. This process doesn't work when dealing with any of the electronics though.

H1000

Casey Jones2 posted:

Geez like it's real tough to take a picture of the part you need and send it with an email along with a short note including MTH product number and what the part is to Midge...I mean really 

And if everyone had to do this with Midge...  The point Gary made is valid.  Putting parts lists on-line stream lines the process and puts less burden on one person at MTH.

Casey Jones2 posted:

Geez like it's real tough to take a picture of the part you need and send it with an email along with a short note including MTH product number and what the part is to Midge...I mean really 

What's wrong with directing that question back to MTH, who appears to use a hodgepodge of both digital and printed parts catalogs?  After so many years, why hasn't MTH established a full digital parts catalog?  A simple AND relatively inexpensive database system can link their catalog of trains and accessories to all respective parts and when selected provide a picture, price and qty. on-hand.  We're not asking (yet ) for a full blown exploded parts layout diagram, although helpful but a comprehensive listing should be available to all to save BOTH MTH staff and customers time and money.  

IMHO, Lionel's longtime parts setup, display and ordering system is ideal.  Where as MTH has continually struggled to create, maintain and update their online content. This accumulation of data, pics and product sku linking could be tedious, but it is something a teen or retiree could easily do over a short period and for minimal pay or in-kind exchange.

MTH is extremely fortunate to have in their parts dept such a dedicated, conscientious, hardworking, courteous and knowledgable person as Midge.  Without updating, MTH will likely suffer greatly when Midge is no longer available to do the magic she does.

We have been complaining about this for how long now? Obviously MTH could care less about these concerns. Unfortunately I don't see anything changing in the future. Such a shame. 

MTH will suffer the fate of the DODO bird if it does not listen to the customer. Didn't someone say "the customer is always right"? That is hard to say even if they are not right = make it right. Manufactures do not Listen and its not just MTH.

MartyE posted:

Casey Jones2 posted:

Geez like it's real tough to take a picture of the part you need and send it with an email along with a short note including MTH product number and what the part is to Midge...I mean really 

And if everyone had to do this with Midge...  The point Gary made is valid.  Putting parts lists on-line stream lines the process and puts less burden on one person at MTH.

Online is fine and dandy but in the long run it's still Midge and her crew filling the parts orders...not like it's robotic!

Casey Jones2 posted:

MartyE posted:

Casey Jones2 posted:

Geez like it's real tough to take a picture of the part you need and send it with an email along with a short note including MTH product number and what the part is to Midge...I mean really 

And if everyone had to do this with Midge...  The point Gary made is valid.  Putting parts lists on-line stream lines the process and puts less burden on one person at MTH.

Online is fine and dandy but in the long run it's still Midge and her crew filling the parts orders...not like it's robotic!

But its easier. Let the customer do the hard work of identifying the part they want, provide MTH with the part number, and let some entry level person pull and prep the order.  This way it doesn't take someone with Midge's high level of expertise and experience to fill orders.

This now becomes a job that can be done by someone with the simple qualification of being able to read. Somehow, I suspect Midge has better things to do other than identifying and pulling parts for orders... maybe she can help digitize and update the online parts diagrams for newer MTH products.

I get the feeling the MTH operation at least when come to product support is run on a shoe string budget.  So Midge is the only one in parts?  I've emailed, called, with no response via email or get any callbacks. So I'm not surprised being how busy one person is.

Ive had to go to Marty, GGG, or Barry with my needs. Rather than bug them I'd much rather order direct from MTH.  As for no parts list when you do a product search, that's an area that needs improvement big time.  

Just think if MTH spent a little money in this area, they could be making  tons in parts, or at least more than they do now.

Gary, are we going to see you at York?

Marty Fitzhenry posted:

Gary, are we going to see you at York?

Sorry to say no, it will be awhile before I make it down there again.  Plan to head out your way this summer. After I get a duaghter married off and one out of college.

I am in the phone book.

What sound files are you looking for, exactly? I might be able to help.