Trains.com

LGB ToyTrain - What's the catch?

12022 views
24 replies
1 rating 2 rating 3 rating 4 rating 5 rating
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, November 4, 2003 12:46 PM
Oh Oh, My least favorite task in New Jersey....Mall Shopping. The possibility of finding LGB in a discount retailer might just be enough to pull me in. Thanks for the heads up, vsmith!
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, November 4, 2003 12:46 PM
Oh Oh, My least favorite task in New Jersey....Mall Shopping. The possibility of finding LGB in a discount retailer might just be enough to pull me in. Thanks for the heads up, vsmith!
  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Tuesday, November 4, 2003 10:33 AM
Got dragged into a Marshall's (discount retailer here on the west coast) this last weekend by the wife. As I'm sulking around, I looked onto a shelf and what did I see? LGB TOYTRAIN boxes!!!! I didnt belief my eyes, I have NEVER seen LGB at a discount seller. So much my wifes chagrin, I walked out with two brand new in the box locomotives at $40 for each, a "Casey" Porter and a "Cowtrain" Baldwin ( Its a Baldwin, I have a photo of an old Baldwin thats a dead ringer for this engine). These are $80 new. So the task became a treat and you never know where your opportunites will knock.

I plan on sneaking back this week to see if anything else is still there.

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Tuesday, November 4, 2003 10:33 AM
Got dragged into a Marshall's (discount retailer here on the west coast) this last weekend by the wife. As I'm sulking around, I looked onto a shelf and what did I see? LGB TOYTRAIN boxes!!!! I didnt belief my eyes, I have NEVER seen LGB at a discount seller. So much my wifes chagrin, I walked out with two brand new in the box locomotives at $40 for each, a "Casey" Porter and a "Cowtrain" Baldwin ( Its a Baldwin, I have a photo of an old Baldwin thats a dead ringer for this engine). These are $80 new. So the task became a treat and you never know where your opportunites will knock.

I plan on sneaking back this week to see if anything else is still there.

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 31, 2003 5:50 PM
Sorry it took me so long to get bck to you. The Marklin Maxi line is not "tin plate" but a variety of different types of metal, mostly sheet metal of very heavy gage. One is a metal dicast loco. I was not trolling for business, just answering a question. My web site is definately in need of an up date, but I'm just a one person shop. Eventually I'll get it ready to launch, when I don't know. The Maxi line would be ideal for a 1 and 3 year old. As for rust, They are plated with, I beleive, zinc and powder coated, total of 4 layers of protection. Scratch them through that and leave them outdoors they will rust at the scratch. Yes they are expensive but you get what you pay for. All locos come with a DCC decoder installed (Marklins Delta system) with limited functionality. My web page does have several e-mail links and 3 Instant messenger services as well as a phone number, contacting me for information should not be a problem. I really don't have the time to frequent this board or make regular visits. I come to this site and others for relaxation and to share information, not to conduct business, sorry about the missunderstanding.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 31, 2003 5:50 PM
Sorry it took me so long to get bck to you. The Marklin Maxi line is not "tin plate" but a variety of different types of metal, mostly sheet metal of very heavy gage. One is a metal dicast loco. I was not trolling for business, just answering a question. My web site is definately in need of an up date, but I'm just a one person shop. Eventually I'll get it ready to launch, when I don't know. The Maxi line would be ideal for a 1 and 3 year old. As for rust, They are plated with, I beleive, zinc and powder coated, total of 4 layers of protection. Scratch them through that and leave them outdoors they will rust at the scratch. Yes they are expensive but you get what you pay for. All locos come with a DCC decoder installed (Marklins Delta system) with limited functionality. My web page does have several e-mail links and 3 Instant messenger services as well as a phone number, contacting me for information should not be a problem. I really don't have the time to frequent this board or make regular visits. I come to this site and others for relaxation and to share information, not to conduct business, sorry about the missunderstanding.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 31, 2003 5:12 PM
re: wheels on ToyTrains rolling stock.

I have been using Bachmann metal wheels with my ToyTrains rolling stock - Item No. 92421 is a 4 axle pack and the right size. Much cheaper than the LGB wheels but may not run as freely as the LGB replacement wheels. Metal wheels help keep the track clean....
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 31, 2003 5:12 PM
re: wheels on ToyTrains rolling stock.

I have been using Bachmann metal wheels with my ToyTrains rolling stock - Item No. 92421 is a 4 axle pack and the right size. Much cheaper than the LGB wheels but may not run as freely as the LGB replacement wheels. Metal wheels help keep the track clean....
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, October 2, 2003 5:55 PM
Thanks for the heads up on the wieght of the Playmobil cars, I've been very pleased with the Toy Train and regular LGB rolling stock so far...... I'm looking forward to converting the plastic wheels to steel, summer heat in New Jersey can be tough. Not a huge concern for the next couple of months.......
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, October 2, 2003 5:55 PM
Thanks for the heads up on the wieght of the Playmobil cars, I've been very pleased with the Toy Train and regular LGB rolling stock so far...... I'm looking forward to converting the plastic wheels to steel, summer heat in New Jersey can be tough. Not a huge concern for the next couple of months.......
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, September 30, 2003 6:01 PM
I use Toy Train for my grandchildren as well as Playmobil. Playmobil cars are "heavy" compared to TT or LGB so need more power to move them. I usually use LBG Stainz loco for kids unless lots or cars or grades then go to my LBG 21261.

SM
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, September 30, 2003 6:01 PM
I use Toy Train for my grandchildren as well as Playmobil. Playmobil cars are "heavy" compared to TT or LGB so need more power to move them. I usually use LBG Stainz loco for kids unless lots or cars or grades then go to my LBG 21261.

SM
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, September 15, 2003 7:10 PM
"Joisey Dolla Joe, good fish, fresh co co nut betta trade? " Oooops, sorry, with the threat of more rain and perhaps a Hurricane, I've had to fall back on my advocation as a Registered Minister of the South Seas Cargo Cult. (est 1943) Hey a man's gotta do what he has to, eh? Yep, same currency, so they tell me..... Hopefully the wx in New Mexico is more pleasent than around here but of course this is NJ, stick around, it will change. Too much time to read all those wish books, at least 6 steamers I'd love to get my hands on...... Strongly considering converting an LGB field engine to battery-R/C power and control, this will give my 3- kids something to run while I raise Steam.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, September 15, 2003 7:10 PM
"Joisey Dolla Joe, good fish, fresh co co nut betta trade? " Oooops, sorry, with the threat of more rain and perhaps a Hurricane, I've had to fall back on my advocation as a Registered Minister of the South Seas Cargo Cult. (est 1943) Hey a man's gotta do what he has to, eh? Yep, same currency, so they tell me..... Hopefully the wx in New Mexico is more pleasent than around here but of course this is NJ, stick around, it will change. Too much time to read all those wish books, at least 6 steamers I'd love to get my hands on...... Strongly considering converting an LGB field engine to battery-R/C power and control, this will give my 3- kids something to run while I raise Steam.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, September 11, 2003 2:09 AM
Slick, am I going to the same site you put a hot link on above? The Maxi stuff I saw there was way over $500.00. But I'll admit, that King Ludwig is one handsome piece.

Since you mentioned the Garden State Parkway, I have to ask if you are talkin "Jersey" dollars or New Mexico Dollars? (The Peso is really weak out here these days) :-)

Lee
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, September 11, 2003 2:09 AM
Slick, am I going to the same site you put a hot link on above? The Maxi stuff I saw there was way over $500.00. But I'll admit, that King Ludwig is one handsome piece.

Since you mentioned the Garden State Parkway, I have to ask if you are talkin "Jersey" dollars or New Mexico Dollars? (The Peso is really weak out here these days) :-)

Lee
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 7:53 PM
Yup, a tad expensive, I'd have to "harvest " the evergreens that grow along the Garden State Parkway and sell them in order to put that little bit of X-Mas joy under my tree....
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 7:53 PM
Yup, a tad expensive, I'd have to "harvest " the evergreens that grow along the Garden State Parkway and sell them in order to put that little bit of X-Mas joy under my tree....
  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 6:06 PM
&%#@%$ $500.00 bucks for the MAXI xmas layout!!!

I could get an LGB Mogul for that much !!!!
I could also get 5 LGB Porters,
or 5 Bachmann Industrial Moguls,
or 2 Bachmann Connies,
or 1 Ruby live steamer and plenty of track to run it around on.

Jeez, it just aint worth it !

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 6:06 PM
&%#@%$ $500.00 bucks for the MAXI xmas layout!!!

I could get an LGB Mogul for that much !!!!
I could also get 5 LGB Porters,
or 5 Bachmann Industrial Moguls,
or 2 Bachmann Connies,
or 1 Ruby live steamer and plenty of track to run it around on.

Jeez, it just aint worth it !

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 4:55 PM
Yep, that's all I got also..... I'm a glutten for punishment, I get a kick out of the "Overseas " type trains and yes, I believe for the time being that I will be pulling LGB behind "Mimi" . The "Tin Plate" is interesting in it's own right, the prices regardless of the starter sets is murderous. (to my wallet anyway) It's good to see variety, the more choices the better..... That Christmas Starter set is nearly $500.00 but could be said to have "collectability" The theme for my "Garten Bahn" is along the lines of "The Marakesh Express" of Crosby, Stills &Nash (Young?) fame, no specific era, place time or whatnot, just good time and relaxation. (DAMN little screw, where it go?!) Oh yea, relaxation...... In close, just remember, "Rust Never Sleeps"
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 4:55 PM
Yep, that's all I got also..... I'm a glutten for punishment, I get a kick out of the "Overseas " type trains and yes, I believe for the time being that I will be pulling LGB behind "Mimi" . The "Tin Plate" is interesting in it's own right, the prices regardless of the starter sets is murderous. (to my wallet anyway) It's good to see variety, the more choices the better..... That Christmas Starter set is nearly $500.00 but could be said to have "collectability" The theme for my "Garten Bahn" is along the lines of "The Marakesh Express" of Crosby, Stills &Nash (Young?) fame, no specific era, place time or whatnot, just good time and relaxation. (DAMN little screw, where it go?!) Oh yea, relaxation...... In close, just remember, "Rust Never Sleeps"
  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 3:39 PM
Finally got to Village Big Trains website, didn't tell me a thing except that I had to leave message contact via email. I dunna know....

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 3:39 PM
Finally got to Village Big Trains website, didn't tell me a thing except that I had to leave message contact via email. I dunna know....

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 3:33 PM
I checked out Helmuts Hobbies and the lowest price MAXI set was $212.00. I cant even figure out the Village Big Trains listing above, is it incomplete? I've seen the MAXI line at The Big Train Show earlier this year and I would rather spend my cash on LGB or Bachman. Too close to tinplate to me and thier US type train doesn't do anything for me but hey, we all have different tastes. These should be a good choice for the guys complaining that they cant find Engli***ype locos, there were two of them offered by Marklin.

Question to Tom the MAXI salesman...
Those MAXI's, wont there be problems with metal corrosion over time, especially with outdoor garden running? What kind of warrenty does Marklin offer if you intend to run outdoors?

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Smoggy L.A.
  • 10,743 posts
Posted by vsmith on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 3:33 PM
I checked out Helmuts Hobbies and the lowest price MAXI set was $212.00. I cant even figure out the Village Big Trains listing above, is it incomplete? I've seen the MAXI line at The Big Train Show earlier this year and I would rather spend my cash on LGB or Bachman. Too close to tinplate to me and thier US type train doesn't do anything for me but hey, we all have different tastes. These should be a good choice for the guys complaining that they cant find Engli***ype locos, there were two of them offered by Marklin.

Question to Tom the MAXI salesman...
Those MAXI's, wont there be problems with metal corrosion over time, especially with outdoor garden running? What kind of warrenty does Marklin offer if you intend to run outdoors?

   Have fun with your trains

  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 1:28 PM
If the Maxi starter set can be had for 179.00 US I am very impressed..... it is beautiful work and should be considered...... not for nothing, but the UK pound is worth 1.59 US , what is one Euro worth? Okay, just checked 1 Euro today is worth 1.1, eh, $1.10 U.S. Not bad , not bad......[:)] Further investigation reveals a "live" web site, www.helmutshobbies.com which shows illustration and descriptions of the Maxi starters at a variety of prices, yes, they can be had at under $200.00 US! Mikey likes It!
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 1:28 PM
If the Maxi starter set can be had for 179.00 US I am very impressed..... it is beautiful work and should be considered...... not for nothing, but the UK pound is worth 1.59 US , what is one Euro worth? Okay, just checked 1 Euro today is worth 1.1, eh, $1.10 U.S. Not bad , not bad......[:)] Further investigation reveals a "live" web site, www.helmutshobbies.com which shows illustration and descriptions of the Maxi starters at a variety of prices, yes, they can be had at under $200.00 US! Mikey likes It!
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 12:53 PM
Tom:

If you open your site (listed above) and cut-and-paste the actual URL from the address bar into your message here, it will work as a hot link directly to the site so the reader does not have to cut-and-paste into a new window.

Also:
I see the only working links on the site as your e-mail and some AOL stuff. It would be nice if you could include some links to what it is you guys actully DO there for us MS types.

Regards,

LDH

Search the Community

FREE EMAIL NEWSLETTER

Get the Garden Railways newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month

By signing up you may also receive occasional reader surveys and special offers from Garden Railways magazine. Please view our privacy policy