Ed M posted:7: everything must run correctly and reliably (big conflict with old gear)
Gotta take issue here: This characteristic describes my Marx, PW Lionel, and MPC, but NOT new Lionel (at least).
Give 'em some older stuff (sure, service it) and stop worrying about the exorbitant, rapacious price tags on the LC and Legacy stuff. If it wrecks, it will likely survive; if not, less loss in $$$.
BTW, there is no law that says you must throw phones, tablets, and other gadgetry at kids from the cradle. If they are absorbed by it, it is because YOU permitted it. You don't want them addicted in that manner, don't permit it. You permit it, don't complain about it.
