Toy train operating and collecting

Aside from the warranty issue, I think that the replacement parts situation would be improved if the was more standardization in terms of parts. Not to start a brand war, but I like the approach that MTH uses with PS2 by using the same board set in most engines. This would allow parts to be interchangeable, and that could extend the lifespan of the product and save the company money at the same time.

MTH uses two major types of PS-2 boards and there are actually several variation within each type.  There are at least four tach sensors (none interchangeable).   I think Williams is the last holdout for basic rugged components that you can get replacements for.

The MTH stuff was designed so the SOFTWARE downloads would be interchangeable (although this doesn't work either since there are several different fly wheels too).

I bought an electric chain saw back in the spring to finish cutting up a downed tree.  The saw had a component failure just as I was wrapping things up and all of the big work was done.  The company that imported the saw was bankrupt.  I had a one year warranty that wasn't worth spit.  The repair centers couldn't even get parts if I was willing to pay the labor charges.   Since I had an extended warranty  (cost $10.00) once I went through about two weeks of phone calls to various parties the store invoked the replacement clause and refunded my money.  This was a CHAIN SAW, not a limited production complex electronic toy.   I used to be able to get parts for my major appliances at relatively local distributors, stuff like motors, switches, etc.  They're gone and most internet sites don't stock much "old" (aka over 5 years) stuff.  You can try E-Bay but mostly the items becomes disposable.  So much for craftsmanship and standing behind your products .   I guess they do stand behind them, about as far away as possible.

Chuck,

            I knew about the early 5V and newer 3V PS2 boards, but I never knew about any other variations within those.

Bill,

You are correct, and give me a whack in the head, because Lionel does sell parts to the genral public.

Thank You,

Ralph

Doug,

What you posted about the product being brand new, old stock, fresh off of the dealer's shelf and the Warranty being voided, due to the 'Ole' Time Lapse Principal B.S.', is what happened to me.
This past May I bought a Lionel U30C diesel made in 2002 , notice the year of manufacture and according to the shop owner, who sold it to me, said; "It's a BRANDEEEE NEW, never before used diesel engine."

Guess what?

That's right!  There was a defect, which of course the Warranty had expired, due to the LOOOOONG ago date that the engine was made and the Warranty only covered a certain time period, which my engine was way past that Warranty covering time period and since yours truely AIN'T good at repairs, I had to rely on B.S. from the seller and my own local shop, because my shop does not want to touch something which they did not sell and that someone tried to repair same.  When, I questioned the seller, he denied it.  Who tried to repair the engine?  Only, the Shadow knows! 

Talk about long winded and long run on sentences!

Solution!  They, both referred me to the Pros. at Lionel and the Lionel personnel I dealt with  were very respectful to me and of my problem child.

In my opinion, I always did and still do, like Lionel products and the Lionel staff are first rate, in spite of my Warranty problem!

Ralph