Childs Tomy Train Set

[Anonymous]

Hello,

Firstly appolgies if this is in the wrong forum, I'm new to this.

I have come across a Childs Tomy Toy Train Set, which is battery opperated.  I was looking at what there was and most things seem to be there.  Though the train part it's self is missing the motor & wheels, which if I remember correctly is one component (the AA battery and train outer site on the motor and wheels), I would like to try and find somewhere I can purchase a new motor so I can get the set working again.  Would anyone know of a good website/shop?

Many Thanks

Becky

[thor]

Try Walmart and Toys R Us, I've seen them for sale there in the last month or two, you probaby won't get the spare parts you'll have to buy a new engine, they're not expensive and they are tough and last well, we got almost a year out of a set of batteries. Search TOMY online and these train sets will show up in several places but I havent located the manufacturers site yet.

[brianel027]

Becky, I don't have any reference to the set you are specifically talking about - when it was made, who made it, etc. But most of the battery powered sets are not made for longevity and I can't imagine parts being available, especially if the company no longer exists. Or if the set was manufactuered overseas for some US low-budget toy importer or if for a seasonal item for a department store chain.

It would probably be more trouble than it is worth to find, locate and purchase the parts at this time of year to have it running by CHIRSTmas.

I don't know your financial situation, but you would probably be better off simply looking for another new battery powered set. These types of sets seem to be fairly common at most department stores. I've noticed quite a few ads in the newspaper fliers for various kinds of battery powered Thomas the Tank train sets this year, so I know they must be out there.

If you are looking to start a tradition in your family or get a child a train set, you maight want to consider taking the plunge with something like a Lionel set. A decent brand new Lionel set can be had mailorder for under and around $130-$200 depending how how much is in the set.

This is the wrong time of year as far as price, but you might want to seek advice and look for a good condition used Lionel set on eBay or even a Lionel compatible K-Line set. During other times of the year, with a little bidding luck, you can usually win one for under $100, but at this time of year others are also looking which will bring up prices a little.

Of course, the electric train sets are a little more money. But parts for most kid friendly types of Lionel trains are readily available. Even some of the so-called cheaper trains made by Lionel during the 1970's when Lionel was owned by General Foods - are still a decent value for the money and have parts available. I've personally picked up these MPC-era Lionel sets for under $75 in working condition (though they might need a little TLC to clean up).

Becky, not trying to damper your spirits here. I just think it is going to be a challenge to fix the set you have, and might be more effort than it is worth.

If you had questions on what kind of Lionel set to get for a child, or specific questions on something you saw for sale somewhere or on eBay, you should feel more than welcome to ask me or anyone here those kinds of questions. I wasn't even a week old when I had my first Lionel train set, so it's in my blood - and I love seeing and hearing about kids today entering this wonderful hobby.

[brianel027]

Well theere you have it... while I was writing my reply, Thor came on with some specifics. Thanks Thor. You see Becky, you did come to the right place!