To Modify... or NOT to Modify. That is the question..

They're only original once as they say in some collector circles. Don't do it.

Can't say about the Bub, but the Flyer could likely be done so it could be put back to original if desired.

 

Steve

I personally would look for a cheap shell or non-running loco to convert to clockwork, as opposed to converting a locomotive that is complete and in good condition.  The exception would be if it could be converted without permanent modification as Steve suggested.  However, they are your locomotives to do with as you wish, so use your best judgment.

 

Those are wonderful locomotives... I can see why you would like to have clockwork versions of them!

 

 

Great suggestions... thanks everyone!

Yes, I'd hate to mess with their "originality". And if not done professionally, I could ruin them.

Maybe I should just satisfy my 'clockwork' crave with some other models. If anyone has any they're interested in trade or sell... please let me know!

 

  There are plenty of O gauge electric outline locos powered by clockwork, and most are reasonably priced. So to modify these would, in my opinion, be a crime! I love that Bub electric steeple cab. So if you decide to part with it, I have tons of IVES clockworks to trade, or would purchase it. I have admired it since you posted pics on your vintage layout. I have sold the gray version, but never had the red and orange. It is gorgeous! Shoot me an email if you decide it needs a new home... willowriverantiques@yahoo.com. 

Originality aside, why would you want to convert an electric locomotive to clockwork?

Bottom line, its your locomotive, I say do as you wish! If the conversion is something you really want, then do it! Did you buy it to make a profit or because you enjoy it? Who cares what people think and/or if you ruined it in someoneelse's eyes. You live once!

my thoughts exactly. 

Don't do it, PLEASE!!!!! don't do it!!! I stand with James & Dave..

Brian, I won't presume to reply for Elgaucho, but I will be happy to share my reasons.

 

I have converted several O gauge locomotives from electric to clockwork.  The reason is simple; clockwork is my power of choice, and as such my layout doesn't have the center third rail, wiring or a transformer that is needed to run an electric locomotive.  I like Marx locomotives, and although Marx made many locos in both electric and clockwork versions, there are some that were only manufactured with electric motors... so when I see an electric non-runner that I like, I don't hesitate to convert it to clockwork so I can run and enjoy it on my layout.  Other locos - like the 999 and CP - were made in windup versions, but they are rare and expensive.  However, electric versions of both locomotives are plentiful and cheap, so I converted a non-running electric version of each one to clockwork power (not as a counterfeit - they are suitably marked on the bottom of each and have distinct differences from the originals).

 

I will point out that my preference is to convert common, relatively cheap locomotives that aren't in running condition, or in some cases I just buy the shell for the purpose of installing a clockwork motor.  Here are some of my projects:

 

 Marx 999 conversion:

 

 

Marx 666 conversion: 

 

 

 Marx CP conversion:

 

 

 Marx 6000 A-B-A conversion w/ two motors:

 

 

 Marx LV 112 conversion:

 

It's a toy owned by you. Do what you want with it and have fun.

 

"Originality" is a myth created by collector nostalgia.

i would do 1 of 2 things list it in the for sale section for the $1,000,000.00 that its worth or contact the 3 collectors that told you not to do it and let them buy it for that princely sum. the second thing is do what you want you bought its your hobby do what makes you happy. otherwise you will need to get on the forum and ask what you should eat for dinner, what you should wear etc.

 

quote:

Who cares what people think and/or if you ruined it in someoneelse's eyes.

 

If he didn't care, then he would not have asked.

 

The OP asked an honest question that will of course elicit answers for one side or the other, each accompanied by the reasons for that person's answer.  This was done in a respectful manner, and it is certainly the OP's decision to do as he wishes... they are his trains.

 

A post requesting opinions will always result in opinions being given.

I like the bodies of these locos and I don't intend to ever run an electric layout. I simply want to find a cute, small clockwork tinplate 0 Gauge loco to run on a simple figure-eight cityscape track.

Great photos James!! 
And I agree.... maybe converting non-running, cheap locos would be a smarter option to convert. It's just a shame these werent made as clockwork options.

 This question usually has the opposite swap in mind. 

 

I prefer electric power for the ability to watch for long periods, but...

 

It depends on how common it is really. If I knew I could find equals to them reasonably easy, I might do it. E.G. I repainted two Marx Commodore Vanderbilts,

 

I think you could find a decent clockwork loco, almost like each, if your patient.

 Keep those for the shelf, or guests, or times you are just too wound down, to wind up. 

 

  If you can do it passively, no "permanent mods", just a "plug and play" swap, keeping the motor around,... well... no concern. Its only the outer key hole cut that scares me

If it was a basket case you would be doing it a favor.

 

I really think you should try your hand at tin-knocking your own bodies too.

A couple $5 Marx cars and I think you could fake the flyer body well enough.

The steeple cab shape is simple too. So much so, I'd use fresh metal there!

It doesn't take full shop to work tin or brass. A few hardwood blocks to bend with, and tap tap tap around on.

 

It may take a few tries, but trying is cheap at least. 

   

I'd hate to see any tiny tin steeple get badly messed with.

 I want one badly, brand wouldn't matter.

The electric motor frame shape is the only reason I haven't tried to make one myself.

Was it pricy or "Marx cheap"?

 

Hey Nighthawk.. I sent you an email the other day.. just wondering if you got it.

I can be reached at ariville@hotmail.com

 

Thx!