If I may...
Yes, post-war Flyer is very "sturdy" and "easy to fall in love with". For whatever reason, 1/64th scale just looks "right".
I've found that Flyer steam is easier to work on than similar era Lionel (which is also awesome). The rear-mounted motor is easy to get to, and I think that the worm-type gearing makes for a slightly quieter and smoother drive than the Lionel spur gearing: just my opinion.
The only advice I might give is to consider substituting the old Flyer track for Gargraves: as I've post here before, it looks much better, seems to conduct electricity much better, is made in the US and the staff there is available and helpful.
Mark in Oregon