Buy anything cool lately?

Two new AMT aluminum pass cars, Diner and Indian scout. I think these are later production 

with the blue windows and plastic or nylon fixed couplers. I am also showing pic of another

Indian scout I have, clear windows and fixed die cast couplers. While I was handling them

it seemed the older one was heavier, so I weighed them. Sure enough, the blue window one

was 28.7oz, the clear window one was 35.2oz. So newer extruding technology or just saving

material costs? Or both? I did see a pic online of another Indian scout with Pullman plates. I bought

these two because I thought the Indian Scout had a different window configuration than mine. 

Turns out the AMT cars have different configurations on each side of the car.

STYRENE......

Not very exciting but will move my signal project along.

hey, if it's exciting to you.......

I have been doing a bit more research into the AMT aluminum cars. I have noticed the following so far I think.

First generation, extruded aluminum, diecast operating couplers, smooth polished roof

Second generation, same except for fixed diecast large couplers

Third generation, same except for smaller fixed diecast couplers

Fourth generation, same except for blue windows and small fixed nylon or plastic couplers

Another iteration that I do not know where to place yet is the ones with the fluted roof

instead of the smooth roof.

I think a lot of you guys know more than me, so please help me out here

John

Man, in the last couple weeks I got a boat load of new stuff. Freedom Train and UP excursion train finally arrived. Beautiful cars. It helps my dealer cherry picked my cars as he pulled every one out of the box and Inspected them. I”LLC post some videos later

Bought Greenberg's Standard gauge book, finally. I think that is cool.

Two more GG1s for my fleet.  #4866 in silver with red stripe.  Bought brand new from an Ebay seller.  I haven't seen a locomotive packaged as well as this one was, from the factory.  Bits of cardboard and foam in every nook and cranny you can imagine.  #2332 also from an Ebay seller needed some work to get it operating.  Maybe an electronic E-unit as the ancient one works but could work better.   The catenary is my experimental prototype.  I took a cue from another member, whose name is lost in that space between my ears.  More photos to follow in a new thread about my catenary build. 

Matt, Great videos of your passenger consists!!

Dan, Great looking GG1s!

Thanks Mark, they don’t get out much but the people movers are my favorite 

Picked this up this week. MTH Premier.

This WM scale NE caboose by Lionel

New MTH RailKing Boston & Maine RS-3 arrived from Mr. Muffin's Trains this week. Took it over to my Dad's to run on his layout. Beautiful engine.

Just bought a new Lionel Legacy B&O NW2 Diesel for my small 5'x6' bedroom layout.

Ralph, The perfect caboose!!

James, Love RS-3 in any paint scheme!

Bill, Looking good, B&O!

Bought a new solder gun

When I came home this was on the door step

Maybe its got something in there I can solder together or tin.

Bought this MTH Premier Nickel Plate set from Stockyard Express three weeks ago. It’s a non cataloged set the Blue Arrow City Of St Louis, Consist is 1950 vintage. I was test running on my unfinished layout.

STE

Very handsome train!!

Things have been busy lately with my sons tee ball,  so not much train work. 

I did but a bunch of Model Power people tonight though,  including some that light up.  Got themfor half off, so I splurged. 

New In The Box

York was great. Prices were soft and counter offers & haggling was encouraged. Too bad I don't need much of anything since I'm already up to my eyeballs in train stuff.  I did pick up a few items that caught my eye though.

It was simple - I wanted a white tank car with a black band around the middle and voila!  I like these MTH Premier 8K tank cars,  They're scale yet they'll go well with scale or semi scale stuff and handle any sort of curves. 

This MTH C&O box car to replace an old die-cast Lionel version I have.  This unit is much more detailed and oh so much lighter. The Lionel version feels like it was made from depleted uranium  (it's so heavy)!

This C&O Troop style baggage car by Atlas O. For $30 new in the box I couldn't resist!

Amtrak 70' ribbed 2-car (coach & baggage) set plus another coach.  3 cars all together. 

Go to see what's new and stop and talk to some people I wanted to see as well. It was all good. 

Ralph M posted:

York was great. Prices were soft and counter offers & haggling was encouraged. Too badI don't need much of anything since I'm already up to my eyeballs in train stuff.  I did pick up a few items that caught my eye though.

In my opinion (subjective, of course,) as a former vendor at York and as a hobbyist with a basement full of layout and trains in storage, what you stated, Ralph M, is where I theorize the entire hobby is headed, including all the hobby-shops, manufacturers, shows and meets, etc.

I mean, how much stuff is enough? I think that is why we have come to value the personal interactions so much. Our hobby used to be a hunt for stuff, an adventure of acquisition, with barely any interaction with other hobbyists on their quests for more stuff.

However, nowadays, we have the stuff, and it is the people who have come to count the most to us.

If I am wrong, please, enlighten me. Anybody?

FrankM, Layout Refinements,

and Moon Township, USA

Moonson posted:

Ralph M posted:

York was great. Prices were soft and counter offers & haggling was encouraged. Too badI don't need much of anything since I'm already up to my eyeballs in train stuff.  I did pick up a few items that caught my eye though.

In my opinion (subjective, of course,) as a former vendor at York and as a hobbyist with a basement full of layout and trains in storage, what you stated, Ralph M, is where I theorize the entire hobby is headed, including all the hobby-shops, manufacturers, shows and meets, etc.

I mean, how much stuff is enough? I think that is why we have come to value the personal interactions so much. Our hobby used to be a hunt for stuff, an adventure of acquisition, with barely any interaction with other hobbyists on their quests for more stuff.

However, nowadays, we have the stuff, and it is the people who have come to count the most to us.

If I am wrong, please, enlighten me. Anybody?

FrankM, Layout Refinements,

and Moon Township, USA

I agree completely Frank. But in addition I believe two other factors contribute. First, the internet has allowed us to connect with many other hobbyists that we would never have met prior. An example would simply be you and I.  Most likely we would have never shared ideas, photos, comments, etc. without it. It has brought us all closer. Second we hobbyists are getting older and I believe as that occurs we place a higher value on friendships. Our lives intersect through trains and we want to share each others experiences. It's a safe place which gives us comfort.  Simply, the circle of life!

Excellent points, Gandydancer!

And I have often wondered and marveled over what the results would be if forums such as OGR were to shut down and cut us all off from one another. We'd be guys standing in our basements or some backyard shed playing alone with our trains, which is a bit like where I started back in 1995. At that time, the local hobby store was the single venue for socializing with other (local = limited pool) train enthusiasts, in addition to the occasional show or meet. The magazines helped, but these electronic connections are profound, IMHO.

FrankM

Moonson posted:

Excellent points, Gandydancer!

And I have often wondered and marveled over what the results would be if forums such as OGR were to shut down and cut us all off from one another. We'd be guys standing in our basements or some backyard shed playing alone with our trains, which is a bit like where I started back in 1995. At that time, the local hobby store was the single venue for socializing with other (local = limited pool) train enthusiasts, in addition to the occasional show or meet. The magazines helped, but these electronic connections are profound, IMHO.

FrankM

Couldn't agree more Frank!

Yes, there comes a time when Enough is simply enough, but We all need Light, so, I bought some extra lights from a friend on the Forum...They work fine. Thank you Al B.

My Lionel home layout is a L-shaped (16x19 feet) layout covered by green carpeting and enhanced with many buildings, action accessories, and mini-scenes with O-scale figures. It's not a "high rail" layout because I wanted it to look like the basement layout I built as a youngster in the 1940s & 50s with a lot of help from my dad.  I recently created a scene near the MTH Country Church with perimeter fencing, tombstones, and a Pastor presiding at a memorial service along with the family of the departed one at the gravesite -- complete with a coffin ready for internment.

To complete this scene, I bought a black 1934 Studebaker hearse from Die-Cast Direct online -- a perfect "fit." It was delivered promptly. I added some O-scale figures in and around the vehicle for realism.

Of course, the trains are the "stars" of a layout, but figures and accompanying features can be "supporting actors."  Mini-scenes add "life" to a train layout -- as passengers at a depot, workers at industries, pedestrians in a neighborhood, and kids at play in a park. Several manufacturers of O-scale figures offer realistic -- even whimsical or humorous -- products. Someone stays up at night thinking-up that stuff.

Mike Mottler  (ritrainguy)

Mike M.,

The new 1930s hearse is very nice for completing your scene, but I also like the car dealership and diner peeking out in your backgrounds :-).  My kinda town.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

A few weeks ago I bought a yellow marx santa fe stock car. I have never been all that interested

in stock cars, but it was yellow which I had not seen and it was very reasonable. Then just recently

I saw two more in different colors, brown and tuscan. So I bought them. This makes three

Marx stock cars, does this make me an official stock car collector now?

Moonson posted:

Excellent points, Gandydancer!

And I have often wondered and marveled over what the results would be if forums such as OGR were to shut down and cut us all off from one another. We'd be guys standing in our basements or some backyard shed playing alone with our trains, which is a bit like where I started back in 1995. At that time, the local hobby store was the single venue for socializing with other (local = limited pool) train enthusiasts, in addition to the occasional show or meet. The magazines helped, but these electronic connections are profound, IMHO.

FrankM

Frank,

You are right on with your perspective. I have seen many life long friendships that grew out of model railroading. The hobby is changing with the times whether we like it or not. Those of us over 50 may not like it but there is nothing we can do about it. Enjoy the commeraderie here and anywhere online you find it, people are still people and good people will find good friends in any medium.

Mike

Got a couple boxcars coming in the mail... gonna put together a collection/train of a bunch of boxcars in as many different road names/colors as I can...

Finally bought a #990 Legacy

gandydancer1950 posted:

Moonson posted:

Ralph M posted:

York was great. Prices were soft and counter offers & haggling was encouraged. Too badI don't need much of anything since I'm already up to my eyeballs in train stuff.  I did pick up a few items that caught my eye though.

In my opinion (subjective, of course,) as a former vendor at York and as a hobbyist with a basement full of layout and trains in storage, what you stated, Ralph M, is where I theorize the entire hobby is headed, including all the hobby-shops, manufacturers, shows and meets, etc.

I mean, how much stuff is enough? I think that is why we have come to value the personal interactions so much. Our hobby used to be a hunt for stuff, an adventure of acquisition, with barely any interaction with other hobbyists on their quests for more stuff.

However, nowadays, we have the stuff, and it is the people who have come to count the most to us.

If I am wrong, please, enlighten me. Anybody?

FrankM, Layout Refinements,

and Moon Township, USA

I agree completely Frank. But in addition I believe two other factors contribute. First, the internet has allowed us to connect with many other hobbyists that we would never have met prior. An example would simply be you and I.  Most likely we would have never shared ideas, photos, comments, etc. without it. It has brought us all closer. Second we hobbyists are getting older and I believe as that occurs we place a higher value on friendships. Our lives intersect through trains and we want to share each others experiences. It's a safe place which gives us comfort.  Simply, the circle of life!

 

Very true.  I was a lone wolf from the time my uncle moved away taking his American Flyer trains with him the summer before I started first grade, to when I bought my first train set (a Tyco HO F7 set) when I was about 12, through until I got on the internet in the late '90s.  I did not interact with any other modelers until on early e-mail groups.  By that time I was over 40.  It is amazing how many friends I have met through this Forum, and met in person at shows and meets.  I ran into many of you on my second trip to York that just finished up.

Since this is Buy Anything Cool, I will comment now with better photographs to follow tomorrow.  I got a practically new Premier Western Maryland F3 ABA which I researched to find was cataloged in 1995.  It has a new BCR and very little run time in a like new box from a great Forum member.  Also I got a NIB 2013 catalog Premier Western Maryland FA-2 ABA set with an add on B unit at an amazing price!!  Also I got a great deal on the WM 2-bay hopper, and finally found a 1950 era dump truck.

As far as how much is enough, I actually now have one less engine than I had a couple months ago.  When I got into O gauge, I used a much more laissez faire approach than I had in HO.  Then I only bought my favorite roads, B&O, WM.  After about 5 years into O gauge, I realized, I really wanted to focus on a couple roads with a layout based on a particular region.  So, most the "odd ball" engines have been passed on to others who will appreciate them more than me.

BTW, my house as I was preparing to leave for York on Thursday, April 19th.

Found this today at Half Price Books, for $15 and author signed!

I added a new twist to an old Lionel accessory.

https://youtu.be/Ru38Qz_fOYU

Mark Boyce posted:

gandydancer1950 posted:

Moonson posted:

Ralph M posted:

York was great. Prices were soft and counter offers & haggling was encouraged. Too badI don't need much of anything since I'm already up to my eyeballs in train stuff.  I did pick up a few items that caught my eye though.

In my opinion (subjective, of course,) as a former vendor at York and as a hobbyist with a basement full of layout and trains in storage, what you stated, Ralph M, is where I theorize the entire hobby is headed, including all the hobby-shops, manufacturers, shows and meets, etc.

I mean, how much stuff is enough? I think that is why we have come to value the personal interactions so much. Our hobby used to be a hunt for stuff, an adventure of acquisition, with barely any interaction with other hobbyists on their quests for more stuff.

However, nowadays, we have the stuff, and it is the people who have come to count the most to us.

If I am wrong, please, enlighten me. Anybody?

FrankM, Layout Refinements,

and Moon Township, USA

I agree completely Frank. But in addition I believe two other factors contribute. First, the internet has allowed us to connect with many other hobbyists that we would never have met prior. An example would simply be you and I.  Most likely we would have never shared ideas, photos, comments, etc. without it. It has brought us all closer. Second we hobbyists are getting older and I believe as that occurs we place a higher value on friendships. Our lives intersect through trains and we want to share each others experiences. It's a safe place which gives us comfort.  Simply, the circle of life!

 

Very true.  I was a lone wolf from the time my uncle moved away taking his American Flyer trains with him the summer before I started first grade, to when I bought my first train set (a Tyco HO F7 set) when I was about 12, through until I got on the internet in the late '90s.  I did not interact with any other modelers until on early e-mail groups.  By that time I was over 40.  It is amazing how many friends I have met through this Forum, and met in person at shows and meets.  I ran into many of you on my second trip to York that just finished up.

Since this is Buy Anything Cool, I will comment now with better photographs to follow tomorrow.  I got a practically new Premier Western Maryland F3 ABA which I researched to find was cataloged in 1995.  It has a new BCR and very little run time in a like new box from a great Forum member.  Also I got a NIB 2013 catalog Premier Western Maryland FA-2 ABA set with an add on B unit at an amazing price!!  Also I got a great deal on the WM 2-bay hopper, and finally found a 1950 era dump truck.

As far as how much is enough, I actually now have one less engine than I had a couple months ago.  When I got into O gauge, I used a much more laissez faire approach than I had in HO.  Then I only bought my favorite roads, B&O, WM.  After about 5 years into O gauge, I realized, I really wanted to focus on a couple roads with a layout based on a particular region.  So, most the "odd ball" engines have been passed on to others who will appreciate them more than me.

BTW, my house as I was preparing to leave for York on Thursday, April 19th.

UMMM...Mark- Didn't you just send me a WM 2 bay covered hopper?????

Nice score- those fireball's look sharp. Can't wait to see them on your layout.

Finally had a sunny 60 deg day on LI yesterday!

gandydancer1950 posted:

Moonson posted:

Excellent points, Gandydancer!

And I have often wondered and marveled over what the results would be if forums such as OGR were to shut down and cut us all off from one another. We'd be guys standing in our basements or some backyard shed playing alone with our trains, which is a bit like where I started back in 1995. At that time, the local hobby store was the single venue for socializing with other (local = limited pool) train enthusiasts, in addition to the occasional show or meet. The magazines helped, but these electronic connections are profound, IMHO.

FrankM

Couldn't agree more Frank!

Frank and Gandy- you both make excellent points. As a kid I had a large HO layout that I shared with my Dad. He had a moderate collection of tinplate that was reserved for Christmas duty. My cousin and uncle were into trains also  (Flyer), so I had a small support group (aka- enablers) around me. Beyond that my friends were not really into model trains the way I was. One of our LHS was Trainland in Lynbrook. I used to love to go there and wander the aisles and dream about all the cool stuff on the shelves. Today, I can be writing this while I'm watching an auction on ebay in another tab on Firefox. The beauty of the internet and this forum, is that we can connect with each other across the country (and world) which only enriches our hobby experience further.

So my point is that yes the hobby is changing as we all get older. I only got back into the hobby seriously a couple of years ago and I already have a basement full of stuff and a attic full of empty orange and purple boxes. I have not been to York yet but I hope to one day soon. Now- gotta continue my hunt for a WM switcher.......

The intervention is working, one day at a time.  It’s been 44 days and 7 pages that I haven’t “Bought anything cool lately”.   

TedW posted:

The intervention is working, one day at a time.  It’s been 44 days and 7 pages that I haven’t “Bought anything cool lately”.   

Tell the truth Ted. The CEO took your credit cards and closed your paypal account after she saw the bills from the Christmas layout build.

Bob

RSJB18 posted:

TedW posted:

The intervention is working, one day at a time.  It’s been 44 days and 7 pages that I haven’t “Bought anything cool lately”.   

Tell the truth Ted. The CEO took your credit cards and closed your paypal account after she saw the bills from the Christmas layout build.

Bob

     Now, to figure out how to handle those BTO’s from last September...  Oh, that’s right, the CC number is on file.  MMWWWAAAAAHHAAAHHAA!!!

Ended up having a great York between buying and catching up with friends. At York I got coal loads from Don Kane and they are nice, I picked up another Weaver trailer on flat car, at Trainworld I ended up with the last MTH 44 tonner he had, and at Joe G I picked up a Pacific Fruit Express 2 pack trailer set and ordered another two sets.Also a few more Gar Graves uncoupling tracks.  When I got home my engine from the Canadian club was waiting for me. All and all it was a great time...........Paul

Walter Anderson posted:

Finally bought a #990 Legacy

Good move. Enjoy

Glad you had a good time Paul! York sure sounds like fun, but just to far for me to travel! But I can live it threw all you guys that post here!

RSJB18 posted:

Mark Boyce posted:

gandydancer1950 posted:

Moonson posted:

Ralph M posted:

York was great. Prices were soft and counter offers & haggling was encouraged. Too badI don't need much of anything since I'm already up to my eyeballs in train stuff.  I did pick up a few items that caught my eye though.

In my opinion (subjective, of course,) as a former vendor at York and as a hobbyist with a basement full of layout and trains in storage, what you stated, Ralph M, is where I theorize the entire hobby is headed, including all the hobby-shops, manufacturers, shows and meets, etc.

I mean, how much stuff is enough? I think that is why we have come to value the personal interactions so much. Our hobby used to be a hunt for stuff, an adventure of acquisition, with barely any interaction with other hobbyists on their quests for more stuff.

However, nowadays, we have the stuff, and it is the people who have come to count the most to us.

If I am wrong, please, enlighten me. Anybody?

FrankM, Layout Refinements,

and Moon Township, USA

I agree completely Frank. But in addition I believe two other factors contribute. First, the internet has allowed us to connect with many other hobbyists that we would never have met prior. An example would simply be you and I.  Most likely we would have never shared ideas, photos, comments, etc. without it. It has brought us all closer. Second we hobbyists are getting older and I believe as that occurs we place a higher value on friendships. Our lives intersect through trains and we want to share each others experiences. It's a safe place which gives us comfort.  Simply, the circle of life!

 

Very true.  I was a lone wolf from the time my uncle moved away taking his American Flyer trains with him the summer before I started first grade, to when I bought my first train set (a Tyco HO F7 set) when I was about 12, through until I got on the internet in the late '90s.  I did not interact with any other modelers until on early e-mail groups.  By that time I was over 40.  It is amazing how many friends I have met through this Forum, and met in person at shows and meets.  I ran into many of you on my second trip to York that just finished up.

Since this is Buy Anything Cool, I will comment now with better photographs to follow tomorrow.  I got a practically new Premier Western Maryland F3 ABA which I researched to find was cataloged in 1995.  It has a new BCR and very little run time in a like new box from a great Forum member.  Also I got a NIB 2013 catalog Premier Western Maryland FA-2 ABA set with an add on B unit at an amazing price!!  Also I got a great deal on the WM 2-bay hopper, and finally found a 1950 era dump truck.

As far as how much is enough, I actually now have one less engine than I had a couple months ago.  When I got into O gauge, I used a much more laissez faire approach than I had in HO.  Then I only bought my favorite roads, B&O, WM.  After about 5 years into O gauge, I realized, I really wanted to focus on a couple roads with a layout based on a particular region.  So, most the "odd ball" engines have been passed on to others who will appreciate them more than me.

BTW, my house as I was preparing to leave for York on Thursday, April 19th.

UMMM...Mark- Didn't you just send me a WM 2 bay covered hopper?????

Nice score- those fireball's look sharp. Can't wait to see them on your layout.

Finally had a sunny 60 deg day on LI yesterday!

Bob,

Oh, a 2-bay covered hopper with speed lettering and a 2-bay open hopper with WM round herald are two different things!  

Merry Christmas!

Attended a Die Cast and Collectible show this morning and picked up some really nice cars and trucks at really  fair prices that fit the lean budget conditions

Chris, all those vehicles look great!  Even more so on your layout!

I got some thing really cool today. It is a Penn State gas station in blue & white plus numerous pics of the Nittany Lion. It is a decent O scale size complete with pumps, oil cans etc. Never saw one before. Has a light but I can't find where the battery goes. Also picked up two very good books on the Pennsy steam engines. I was very tempted with an old floor train but will consider it further.

Chris A those are some really nice vehicles you picked up.  I bought that same Matchbox MAck from Die-Cast Direct years ago for around $20.  I believe they're over $80 on e-bay whenever I see them.  The Piel's truck seems to be one of those 1:64 AHL Peterbilts.  I've got about a half dozen or so of those AHL trucks. I figure I can use them away from the front of the layout to add some depth of field.

Mark, thanks for kind comments !   Joe, yes I love the Matchbox Mack B-61 tractor.   I have been watching them on eBay and you're right they are selling for way more than I am willing to pay.  I picked this one for $35.00. 

The maroon 1934 pick up is also a Matchbox Collectible, it's an international harvester.   I snagged a great deal on the Guiness Tractor Trailer.  Never seen one like this before, it's an earlier release from Corgi that's much closer to 1/48 scale and has almost all of  the same details that the Mack B-61, Cab has, mirrors, wipers, air horns, air hoses going back to the trailer.

1959 - 1964  

156 episodes of classic tv.

Here is our haul from our first ever York!

MTH Premier Club Car, Southern Tanker, and a Savannah & Atlanta Caboose to match our S&A SD70ACe:

The wife fell in love with a Lionel Standard Gauge #312 Observation Car, which she's got on display in her office / art room. I'm planning on rigging up a small transformer to power it's light:

Lastly, I was lucky enough to find a deal on a gently used MTH Premier SD70ACe, which I've been keeping an eye on since I went on-site at BNSF HQ a year ago for work:

In addition to the above, we picked up some JT MegaSteam (we LOVE the scents - Vanilla, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Popcorn), and some odds and ends.

Had a great time meeting folks in person at the Quaker Steak and Lube dinner - unfortunately we didn't make it to the Gold Hall meet on Friday, we'll have to make it a must-do for next time!

Oh, a 2-bay covered hopper with speed lettering and a 2-bay open hopper with WM round herald are two different things!  

Fair enough Mark. I couldn't see the lettering through the plastic too well. 

RSJB18 posted:

Oh, a 2-bay covered hopper with speed lettering and a 2-bay open hopper with WM round herald are two different things!  

Fair enough Mark. I couldn't see the lettering through the plastic too well. 

You are quite right!  I didn’t take the plastic wrap off. It would seem like I may have bought what I just sent you!  Sounds like another over 60 thing on my part!  LOL

I took a video of each of the engine sets operating, but didn’t get them uploaded to YouTube yet.  Sunday was church and visiting parents.

mattrain posted:

Here is our haul from our first ever York!

MTH Premier Club Car, Southern Tanker, and a Savannah & Atlanta Caboose to match our S&A SD70ACe:

The wife fell in love with a Lionel Standard Gauge #312 Observation Car, which she's got on display in her office / art room. I'm planning on rigging up a small transformer to power it's light:

Lastly, I was lucky enough to find a deal on a gently used MTH Premier SD70ACe, which I've been keeping an eye on since I went on-site at BNSF HQ a year ago for work:

In addition to the above, we picked up some JT MegaSteam (we LOVE the scents - Vanilla, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Popcorn), and some odds and ends.

Had a great time meeting folks in person at the Quaker Steak and Lube dinner - unfortunately we didn't make it to the Gold Hall meet on Friday, we'll have to make it a must-do for next time!

Nice Matt.  I think I saw you at a distance at Quaker Steak, but am sorry I didn’t make it your way.  There were so many people, I would have to push the chair in and make the rounds of the tables like a politician to meet everyone!!  LOL

Bought a repair manual for older Lionel trains at the Choo Choo Shop in Spencer, NC.

Went on a road trip to Hutchinson Kansas to the Cosmosphere.

Bought some new flatcar loads, got treats for grandkids, and ate World Class  Kansas BBQ at the Wild Pig Pit.  A great day!

Time era on my layout is up to the mid fifties. Here's a few vehicles I purchased over the past few weeks. The 50 Chevy originally was brown, I painted it green and coated most of the chrome semi clear. Also semi clear coated the white car.  

more truck, busses and ambulance coming in the mail this week.

Just got this AMT Santa Fe Diner. This one was a pleasure to open, clean, shiny, everything there. 

Steaming Jon posted:

Got a couple boxcars coming in the mail... gonna put together a collection/train of a bunch of boxcars in as many different road names/colors as I can...

4 more coming... the plan is to find as many of these boxcars (different road names/colors) as I can for less than $25 each including shipping... should make a nice long colorful train for not too much money...

LGB Alligator A York carry home.

This is a e net picture but mine is the red one same as this one.

Larry

The Weaver flat car I picked up at York was 2 rail so when I got home I check the Bay and got a set of die cast three trucks and couplers. Car is all set to go on the track. Pic..................Paul

Picked up this Lionel Cryo Trans refer off the bay last week.  It even has an EOTD.  It’s not as elaborate as MTH’s but it works.

Larry

I picked up this Broadway Limited Water Tower at York last week. This a great operating accessory.

ncdave posted:

I picked up this Broadway Limited Water Tower at York last week. This a great operating accessory.

I bought one of those from BL a couple of months ago.

GREAT accessory.

Received another Corgi bus today. Took it apart, put a driver and a few passengers in it.

A couple of weeks ago we had a brief discussion about non train people (flea market freddies, "estate

liquidators", pickers etc) selling trains. Always "rare, vintage, original in love/play wear condition". 

Someone on the forum said that when you see one, then scroll down and you see ten more identical ones. 

Happened to me on the bay today, searching Hafner O, first listing was a rare, vintage, original

loco only, second listing was an identical loco with the whole set for 20% of the price of the first one.

Hmm, which one is the train guy? Scrolling thru all the Hafner listings, about 50 total, there were 4 more

of this identical loco listed. 

beardog posted:

A couple of weeks ago we had a brief discussion about non train people (flea market freddies, "estate

liquidators", pickers etc) selling trains. Always "rare, vintage, original in love/play wear condition". 

Someone on the forum said that when you see one, then scroll down and you see ten more identical ones. 

Happened to me on the bay today, searching Hafner O, first listing was a rare, vintage, original

loco only, second listing was an identical loco with the whole set for 20% of the price of the first one.

Hmm, which one is the train guy? Scrolling thru all the Hafner listings, about 50 total, there were 4 more

of this identical loco listed. 

I've saved quite a bit buying items on the bay by doing different types of searches for one item and studying  all the pix. If they just show one or two pix, ask them questions. If no answer, chances they are hiding something., I'll move on.

I went to York, where I picked up two sets at great prices.   I got an amazing deal on a NIB Premier WM Fireball FA-2 A-B-A with an add on B unit.

I purchased a virtually new Premier ProtoSound  Western Maryland Fireball F3 A-B-A from a Forum member before York actually. 

Went antiquing in Carlisle, Pa., first time, and there were some nice Lionel cars and engines for sale, I brought home what I wanted: three horse drawn buggies, wagons, etc for the "western "part of my layout.  Exactly what I was looking for. Need a few more then the lead cowboys and others will be added.

Miss Mail lady dropped off some more vehicles today. Pair of B-61 Macks w/van trailers, a Ford and Chevy pu's.  I'm not sure what I'll do with the trailers.  

I picked these cars up on the way home from York. This is the last of my "gotta have" modern trains. Now I can go back to focusing on tinplate. Thanks to forum member Dave Funk for an easy transaction. 

I am a little behind the times but I was to acquire an MTH Premier N&W J at a nice price at York on Thursday.  I had always wanted the J but had taken a long break from the Hobby until the last two years.  I spent all day Friday (at York) looking but could not find passenger cars to match.

Thursday I took a detour on my way home from Pittsburgh and stopped by Pats Trains.  Pat had responded quickly to email the day before confirming he did have the cars.  He was very helpfully showing me 10 or 11 passenger cars with no sales pressure.  Happy to say my J now has 8 cars to work with.   

My phone camera is not best, I hope the pics are ok

They both look great, Strugglinman!!  Pat's a great guy, always being as helpful as he can.

Picked up a few more pieces last night. Adding to my growing collection.

(photos from seller)

Nice finds Bob.......Paul

Thanks Paul- now I gotta figure out how to sneak them past the CEO

They are nice, Bob!  At least they are small, and hopefully aren’t noticed!

Bob, I devised a simple method. I have boxes stored on the porch so when I get something new I wait and eventually bring it into the house. So when the wife asks is that new I say no just found a space for it inside LOL. Actually she has been great with my purchases but I also do not go overboard.........Paul

As I've said before my collection has reached critical mass.
In other words- I have a large enough mass of train crap that the new stuff blends in

Nice buy Bob! But I don't see any green and white stuff or orange! LOL

Sorry Mike- strictly East Coast lines around here. Except for Santa Fe, my all time favorite.

I have a pair of Burlington GP-7's in HO- does that count?

That's cool Bob! I understand!

Yea- we can't all be like Brian and have trains from every railroad known to mankind!

It's funny you say that I was just on the phone with him about a possible engine trade! LOL

Was able to get another pair of Weaver  die cast trucks and couplers off the BAY. Pic .......Paul

Free from my dentist...

... well after paying $1,200 for a crown!

Must have tools to get out the gunk from every nook and cranny.

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

After much stalling, gnashing of teeth and second thoughts I broke down and bought a Corgi model  of a US Army  M48A3  Patton tank.  1/50 scale, a little too big for my O scale but will fit nicely on a Standard gauge flat. Really didn't buy it for the layout, thought it looked cool in the Army.

jim pastorius posted:

After much stalling, gnashing of teeth and second thoughts I broke down and bought a Corgi model  of a US Army  M48A3  Patton tank.  1/50 scale, a little too big for my O scale but will fit nicely on a Standard gauge flat. Really didn't buy it for the layout, thought it looked cool in the Army.

If you can post a p[picture this would be nice.
Just a FYI, they do make a 1/48  M48A3  Patton tank plastic kit.
Just looked and also saw a M60-A1 like the one I used in the Army.
I remember taking this tank M60-A1 with AOS  (1973) off a flat car.

This tank was for testing the add on stabilization unit.

Once the tank was off we had to tighten all the center guides and end connectors, busy work. 

Richie C. posted:

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

I love you for your pink Cadillac, crushed velvet seats
Riding in the back, cruising down the street
Waving to the girls, feeling out of sight
Spending all my money on a Saturday night
Honey I just wonder what you do there in the backof your pink Cadillac, pink Cadillac!!!

Nice score Richie.

Apples55 posted:

Richie C. posted:

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

I love you for your pink Cadillac, crushed velvet seats
Riding in the back, cruising down the street
Waving to the girls, feeling out of sight
Spending all my money on a Saturday night
Honey I just wonder what you do there in the backof your pink Cadillac, pink Cadillac!!!

Nice score Richie.

I was waiting for that. Love me some Springsteen. 

Apples55 posted:

Richie C. posted:

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

=snip=

>> Waving to the girls, feeling out of sight

=snip=

And here I always thought the words were "peeling out'a sight" as in leaving some serious rubber behind. At least that's how I always sang it back in my R&R days.  And, it was the Aretha Franklin version, not Springsteen. :-}

That said, what a really great find, Richie.  Great hub caps, rocker panels, fins, and detailing.  My local CVS has done wonders for my carpet layout but you got a great deal.  Here in Mass., CVS charges $5.99 for their scale-ist die cast cars and trucks.  They even had a Civil War-era style engine for sale but the quality was poor, so I passed on it.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

The M48 A3 Patton tank. Not pink but very cool.

jim pastorius posted:

The M48 A3 Patton tank. Not pink but very cool.

Very nice tank, love the detail!

Turn the turret around, set the barrel in  travel lock then put it be a flat.

Usually the search light and 50 cal gun by the tank commanders copula would not be on a tank when shipped on a flat car. So leave it as is no, one will notice.
So who cares it will look great, just have fun!

The turret rotates but the barrel doesn't move up or down. When I was in Germany  there were A2s and A3s both.  The crews told us grunts they liked the diesels.  Sometimes we rode on the backs, as close to being a tanker I ever got. I will probably set it in a park or something. A little wide for my O gauge.

jim pastorius posted:

The turret rotates but the barrel doesn't move up or down. When I was in Germany  there were A2s and A3s both.  The crews told us grunts they liked the diesels.  Sometimes we rode on the backs, as close to being a tanker I ever got. I will probably set it in a park or something. A little wide for my O gauge.

First of all, Jim, Thank You For Your Service.

Even if the tank is a bit wide, put it on as it will still look good, as long as it clears tunnels/scenery/buildings on your layout. 
Tank looks great!

TomlinsonRunRR posted:

Apples55 posted:

Richie C. posted:

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

=snip=

>> Waving to the girls, feeling out of sight

=snip=

And here I always thought the words were "peeling out'a sight" as in leaving some serious rubber behind. At least that's how I always sang it back in my R&R days.  And, it was the Aretha Franklin version, not Springsteen. :-}

That said, what a really great find, Richie.  Great hub caps, rocker panels, fins, and detailing.  My local CVS has done wonders for my carpet layout but you got a great deal.  Here in Mass., CVS charges $5.99 for their scale-ist die cast cars and trucks.  They even had a Civil War-era style engine for sale but the quality was poor, so I passed on it.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

Actually, it was purchased in Peabody, MA and was marked $5.99, but my wife always has coupons and it might have been marked down. The sales slip said $4.79, so that's what I'm running with !

It's made by Kinsmart and I did a little checking and it is available from some on-line diecast sites at reasonable prices. It's also made in black and white/cream and like Chuck Berry said,  "Cadillac doin' bout 95, bumper to bumper, rollin' side to side.... Maybelline ....."

Richie C. posted:

TomlinsonRunRR posted:

Apples55 posted:

Richie C. posted:

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

=snip=

>> Waving to the girls, feeling out of sight

=snip=

And here I always thought the words were "peeling out'a sight" as in leaving some serious rubber behind. At least that's how I always sang it back in my R&R days.  And, it was the Aretha Franklin version, not Springsteen. :-}

That said, what a really great find, Richie.  Great hub caps, rocker panels, fins, and detailing.  My local CVS has done wonders for my carpet layout but you got a great deal.  Here in Mass., CVS charges $5.99 for their scale-ist die cast cars and trucks.  They even had a Civil War-era style engine for sale but the quality was poor, so I passed on it.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

Actually, it was purchased in Peabody, MA and was marked $5.99, but my wife always has coupons and it might have been marked down. The sales slip said $4.79, so that's what I'm running with !

It's made by Kinsmart and I did a little checking and it is available from some on-line diecast sites at reasonable prices. It's also made in black and white/cream and like Chuck Berry said,  "Cadillac doin' bout 95, bumper to bumper, rollin' side to side.... Maybelline ....."

OK Richie, I have to check out CVS here in NH.  I currently have a black 2dr sedan & a white convertible from the early 50's and that PINK beauty will fit right in at the Antique Show that's always happening on my layout. Thanks for the lead.

jim pastorius posted:

The turret rotates but the barrel doesn't move up or down. When I was in Germany  there were A2s and A3s both.  The crews told us grunts they liked the diesels.  Sometimes we rode on the backs, as close to being a tanker I ever got. I will probably set it in a park or something. A little wide for my O gauge.

The barrel would also be in travel lock if it was being transported.. My first MOS was 45k20, Turret Artillery Repairman.. Worked on many of these "back in the day"...

decoynh posted:

Richie C. posted:

TomlinsonRunRR posted:

Apples55 posted:

Richie C. posted:

Was at CVS Pharmacy the other day with my wife to pick up a prescription and saw this 1/43 scale 1953 pink Cadillac with opening doors. At only $4.79, it was a no brainer, although I got quite a look from SWMBO when it popped up on the checkout counter !

=snip=

>> Waving to the girls, feeling out of sight

=snip=

And here I always thought the words were "peeling out'a sight" as in leaving some serious rubber behind. At least that's how I always sang it back in my R&R days.  And, it was the Aretha Franklin version, not Springsteen. :-}

That said, what a really great find, Richie.  Great hub caps, rocker panels, fins, and detailing.  My local CVS has done wonders for my carpet layout but you got a great deal.  Here in Mass., CVS charges $5.99 for their scale-ist die cast cars and trucks.  They even had a Civil War-era style engine for sale but the quality was poor, so I passed on it.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

Actually, it was purchased in Peabody, MA and was marked $5.99, but my wife always has coupons and it might have been marked down. The sales slip said $4.79, so that's what I'm running with !

It's made by Kinsmart and I did a little checking and it is available from some on-line diecast sites at reasonable prices. It's also made in black and white/cream and like Chuck Berry said,  "Cadillac doin' bout 95, bumper to bumper, rollin' side to side.... Maybelline ....."

OK Richie, I have to check out CVS here in NH.  I currently have a black 2dr sedan & a white convertible from the early 50's and that PINK beauty will fit right in at the Antique Show that's always happening on my layout. Thanks for the lead.

Layout looks great and that white drop-top is sweet.

If you can't find it in NH, let me know. I think they had another one at the Peabody CVS and I'd be happy to pick it up for you, if it's still there.