First of all, Merry Christmas everyone! The title of this is not a loaded question, although it could probably be perceived that way. I decided a couple wks back to start putting together my first Lionel/MTH Standard Gauge set car by car. Probably be a shelf set for a few years until I start building that dream layout I've been thinking of forever! I haven't been to a show in 20+ years or more (about to correct that) and I have never seen one of the new standard gauge cars in person. That's why my question is an honest one...when I buy a new car, I am curious what to expect? Perfection each & every time? Flaws often? not very often? What's acceptable, what's not? When is it bad enough to send back? What is acceptable damage on them? I also realize we're all different, just looking for your own opinions and impressions here...
This is why I ask. I just bought a brand new Lionel/MTH American Flyer 4021 tinplate standard gauge caboose. This car does not disappoint! I am just stunned by the quality of this car, with one exception, but a big one, I think. The front wall of the caboose is fine until about 1/2 way up the doorway, then it takes a fairly drastic curve, middle of the door to the top of the doorway there is at least a 1/4" difference. It's drastic enough that it's pretty noticable...
But the rest of the caboose is so unbelievably perfect, I just can't help but think this may be the exception, not the rule? And I might add, I purchased this from one of the sponsors of this site, and he has assured me I am more than welcome to return it for a 100% refund which I will do. I really appreciate that but have come to expect that as I have dealt with others here on the forum and it's always been a positive experience.
But I digress, since this is my first car I don't know, when I order another, is this likely to be the case on all of them? Am I being too picky? As mentioned already though the reason I'm questioning this is because the entire rest of the car is absolutely dead mint perfect. Part of me is saying I must be crazy, but the other part of me is telling me this just seems like it may be out of the ordinary. I have collected some nice original sets in last several years in O gauge, and to be honest, I don't think I've seen a flaw quite this bad on an original that I have run into....I have actually considered in the past, purchasing the Presidents Special set or perhaps a Blue Comet to tuck away for that dream layout in the future.... but quite honestly, paying that much for one of those sets, I would expect absolute perfection, but perhaps I expect too much?
Would love to hear all your thoughts on this...what would be or is acceptable to you? Thanks so much for your opinions....
