Reference Source

[traindaddy1]

Hi! This old guy has got a question. What reference tool do most of you use to find out about the differences in similar items? For example: I been looking for Lionel items on E-Bay. Today I saw an automatic milk car platform for use with my 3472 milk car. The ad stated that the item had a "harder to find" yellow railing than the usual white. Another ad, showed a box car, that to me, looked like it had the same coloring as another but the ad stated that it was the "rarer "color and the price was more. I do know the differences of the categories like pre-war, post war, modern etc. but would like to learn about the differences within a particular model. I'm by no means interested or financially able to become a "collector" but I would really like to learn more. Many thanks.

[csxt30]

Here is one for postwar Lionel !
http://www.postwarlionel.com/
For a lot of the other stuff, you may have to check at the TCA site. That's the Train Collectors assn. I'll try to get back with that site , too, & welcome to the forum here !
Here it is ! http://www.tcamembers.org/articles/operating/supero/index.html
http://www.tcamembers.org/articles/layouts/Dream/index.html

[Roger Bielen]

I've used the "Greenberg's Guide(s) to Lionel Trains".

[Anonymous]

I have both the Greenberg and Doyle postwar books. Many postwar train items on eBay are listed as "rare" that are quite common. The fun is in finding a rare one that the seller thinks is common. I'm not a "collector", but use the books for historical understanding. Joe

[traindaddy1]

Many thanks to ALL for the info. I knew that I could count on you.