Brand new to toy trains with a simple question (hopefully)

[Anonymous]

I just got an old train via Ebay for my 3 year old train fanatic (That's where the screen name comes from). Its a Marx Model 9550 and I have no idea how to get the smoke unit up and running. A lot of tweeking and sanding of the old track has got it doing laps around the kitchen and it seems to be working great in all other aspects other than the smoke. I have read some info on smoke pellets or liquid but can't tell which to use when. The smoke unit has what appears to be a wic. Any help in making what has been a big hit with my son a huge it would be appreciated.
Thanks
Matt

[Anonymous]

Welome, you can use any smoke FLUID that is available today. Marx locos take the liquide smoke only. MTH or lionel fluid will work, just put in 6-8 drops. Does the wick look like it is burnt out? If it is, replacment ones are availible.

[cnw1995]

That's great, Matt. Welcome to the forum! Get some smoke fluid at a local hobby store and, as Jerry notes in his drawing, put 6-8 drops in the stack, and it should heat up and smoke when working.

[Anonymous]

Thanks a million, you're a man of few words and clear message!

[Anonymous]

you are welcome!

[Dave Farquhar]

Matt, glad the Marx is working out for you. Marx cars are still pretty inexpensive, so you'll be able to add on to your son's collection as time goes on without breaking the bank. Also, if you want to add track and don't want to sand down more old rusty track, modern Lionel and K-Line track works just fine with old Marx track. I have a mixture of all three on my layout.

[Anonymous]

But Dave, you forgot about the switches! You should get the original marx switches, because the flanges of the Marx locos will pass the points and frog great. If you use a modern switches, the loco will push itself up from the rails, causing a short or cut circut.

[Dave Farquhar]

Oops. Yep, you're right. Fortunately it's still pretty easy to find Marx switches on eBay and at estate sales.

[cnw1995]

Here is a recommended source for Marx items, including switches.

http://www.trainmarket.com/