Lionel Restoration Advice

[ort007]

Hello,
I have a LionelCity Station #112 from the Pre-War era. Structure is in great shape with no dents, scratches, or rust. The paint is still bright, but it is completely cracked and is flaking off. Where would I look for quality and authentic restoration work for something like this?
Thanks,
Toby

[ort007]

Hello,
I have a LionelCity Station #112 from the Pre-War era. Structure is in great shape with no dents, scratches, or rust. The paint is still bright, but it is completely cracked and is flaking off. Where would I look for quality and authentic restoration work for something like this?
Thanks,
Toby

[bowlerp]

I recommend browsing a newer issue of Classic Toy Trains for the advertisements. Look especially for the 1/4 or 1/8 page small ads where these folks generally run their ads. There are often several people doing this service. I subscribe to CTT, and am totally unafiliated with the magazine, advise you with no bias.

A second place to try is in the quarterly Members Classified publication of the TCA (Train Collectors Association). Every issue contains ads of people who perform such services as a business. They are usually very knowledgeable about matching original colors, etc. TCA has a website where you might begin. If you beg hard, they may send a complementary of the classifieds to you. Otherwise, you cannot see them unless a member in good standing.

Those two publications are the primary ones in the world for people with knowledge of the era of your piece of equipment. I strongly recommend you stay in that sphere in order to ensure high quality restoration. Just do not expect high collector dollar value from a restored piece. The true collectors value original condition, just like people in antique furniture. A restored piece is desirable for display on a layout, but not to make money.

[bowlerp]

I recommend browsing a newer issue of Classic Toy Trains for the advertisements. Look especially for the 1/4 or 1/8 page small ads where these folks generally run their ads. There are often several people doing this service. I subscribe to CTT, and am totally unafiliated with the magazine, advise you with no bias.

A second place to try is in the quarterly Members Classified publication of the TCA (Train Collectors Association). Every issue contains ads of people who perform such services as a business. They are usually very knowledgeable about matching original colors, etc. TCA has a website where you might begin. If you beg hard, they may send a complementary of the classifieds to you. Otherwise, you cannot see them unless a member in good standing.

Those two publications are the primary ones in the world for people with knowledge of the era of your piece of equipment. I strongly recommend you stay in that sphere in order to ensure high quality restoration. Just do not expect high collector dollar value from a restored piece. The true collectors value original condition, just like people in antique furniture. A restored piece is desirable for display on a layout, but not to make money.

[ort007]

bowlerp, thanks for the input. You're right about the value. This piece has sentimental value and I'd like it to become an heirloom, not an investment!

[ort007]

bowlerp, thanks for the input. You're right about the value. This piece has sentimental value and I'd like it to become an heirloom, not an investment!