LionelPw,
A wise decision you have made in going to standard gauge. I absolutely love the big trains. Depending on where you live, the new version route may be much simpler. Old original (or restored) trains can be hard to get. eBay is good for rolling stock, but engines are relatively dicey. I have a mixture of both. 8's and 10's are relatively easy to get and relatively cheap ( compared to the steamers), but are kind of prosaic. The best value (bar none) is a MTH 384E Ready to Run set. Usually available from some dealers for around $500, they have an engine (with absolutely awesome sounds), tender, frieght car and caboose. Factor in the transformer and track, and it is a great intro to that segment of the hobby.
Keep on training,
Mike C. from Indiana
Thank you for your response. I do prefer original trains and the information you provided is the kind of advice I was seeking. Very Helpful.
If you opt for an original train i would advise against Ives or Flyer as they are almost impossible to obtain parts for...Lionel super motor equipped engines like late 33's 10's 8's 318'sare cheap and available. The motors are easy to work on and very reliable. STay away from these early locos with E auto reverse the units are finnicky and difficult for a novice to tune.
There are new "re-production" standard gauge sets out there. Any of the big distributors should have them i.e. Charles Ro, Just Trains, etc. I would start with that because it is new and the technology is better in our day and time.
George
Bob, Thank you for your kind response. The information is exactly what I need. I am now looking for a Standard Gauge engine or set. Do you have any recommendations as to which engine(s) would be good to start with based on ease of operation, maintenance, and reliability? Thanks again.
You should add both a circuit breaker and a rheostat. A 5-ampere circuit breaker would be safe for that transformer. You can use an automatic-resetting automotive-type breaker, which you can find at many auto parts stores. Any of the prewar rheostats, like the number 81, would work.
I would start with A connected to the outside rails, U connected to the circuit breaker, the other terminal of the circuit breaker connected to the rheostat, the other terminal of the rheostat connected to the center rail. Then set the selector for the highest voltage that you will need and control the train speed with the rheostat.
Bob Nelson
Its the same as postwar operation wise. Just bigger!
I have collected Postwar Lionel for years and have an interest in obtaining and running a standard gauge set. I am looking for a guide with basic information on setting up a standard gauge track. I would like to use a Type K lionel transformer that I have and need information on wiring it, operating it, and whether I need to add a circuit breaker and rheostat and how to make the connections. Any other basic advice would be appreciated.Thanks Lionelpw
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