Why don't train manufacturers offer payment plans????

[nitroboy]

With the price of trains so high these days, why don't manufacturers offer payment plans on trains. I myself would probably buy new trains if a system was in place to offer this with reasonable finance charges.

Dave

[Big_Boy_4005]

The problem is that the manufacturers don't give the dealers a payment plan option. Most of the dealers don't buy direct from the manufacturer anyway, the trains come through a distributor.

You might be able to work something out with your local dealer on a pre order, or lay away, but he has paid for the trains and doesn't want to be in the banking business, since he may already may be borrowing money to pay the distributor.

[superwarp1]

3rdrail allows you to put engines on layoway. Pay it off as fast or as slow as you wish.

Gary

[ChiefEagles]

Because you can use VISA or MASTERCARD or anyother so they do not have to mess with it.

[Anonymous]

This is one of the instances where a good relationship with a local shop can be really beneficial. I have a system where I spend a set amount weekly. He keeps a running total and sometimes I'm in the black and other times I'm in the red. In the end I get the trains and he gets his money. Of course when Lionel shoots off one of those special releases that always puts a strain on my budget!!

[Anonymous]

Sounds like Gomez Addams has a good thing going there. It might
be a good idea to present this concept to other hobby shop owners.
They might see the good side of it and go for it.

On the other hand, rumor has it that Lionel will accept body parts
(right arm, etc.) and first-born children as payment for some of their
pricier models...

JUST KIDDING! JUST KIDDING! DO NOT try this at your home!

[Anonymous]

I think Williams had something like so much down and then pay off later.

[Big_Boy_4005]

But really what everyone here seems to be saying is, there are ways to break up the payments but, NO TRAINS UNTIL PAID IN FULL, unless your dealer loves you.[swg]