TRACKPENNY......when I pulled my stuff out of their boxes for the first time in nearly two decades, it was just after Thanksgiving. I had the same plan as you, a modest layout for Christmas and for my son.
I had too little time, so I did the following. Tested a couple of engines and the transformer. Took two of my engines into my local train shop for servicing. Because the old track was a mess and needed too much work, I bought some new (tubular) track for the "around the tree" layout. Bought a 4' X 8' piece of plywood as a base for the tree and the trains. And then began cleaning and lubricating the cars. Within two weeks I was off and running.
Even my wife was pleased with how the trains, along with her lighted village pieces, transformed the feeling and the ambience back to a more traditional Christmas for her. The trains around the tree have become a centerpiece for our holiday gatherings for the past 21 years. And my grandchildren are now the third generation enjoying the very same trains I did so long ago.
Last Christmas I bought Lionel Fastrack to replace the tubular I had been using. Expensive, but even my wife liked the more realistic appearance.
Forgot to mention.....I gave my son a starter set for his very own that same Christmas as well. You are going to have a blast with this entire idea with your grandson. The rebirth of a holiday tradition may have alluded you for a while, but it sounds like you are on the right track.
Jack.
IF IT WON'T COME LOOSE BY TAPPING ON IT, DON'T TRY TO FORCE IT. USE A BIGGER HAMMER.
trackpenny I have my old Lionel set from 1958. It has not been run since 1960. I have a B/O diesel locomotive and a small track crew car. What should I do before using these items again? I assume there is some lubricating involved but am not sure after 50 years what I should do for safe operation? Any hints for the transformers, switches, etc. i would like to have it running for my grandson at Christmas. Any help is greatly appreciated.
I have my old Lionel set from 1958. It has not been run since 1960. I have a B/O diesel locomotive and a small track crew car. What should I do before using these items again? I assume there is some lubricating involved but am not sure after 50 years what I should do for safe operation? Any hints for the transformers, switches, etc. i would like to have it running for my grandson at Christmas. Any help is greatly appreciated.
TRACKPENNY........Try reading this for starters!
http://ctt.trains.com/en/Collecting/Restoration%20and%20Repair/2009/03/Get%20your%20toy%20trains%20ready%20for%20the%20holidays.aspx
Then start asking questions here. You are smart to start this now rather than wait until you get bogged down with other responsibilities as we approach the Holidays.
Jack
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