Hi - I've posted this here ... but I think this is a better furom
http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=25951

I know nothing about trains, but my dad asked me to research this and I was hoping someone here could help me out or at least point me in the right direction...

he wants a "heavy" electric train for his grandson with steam (or smoke?) pellets. about $100 range or so... any info is appreciated. he grew up in the 50s with whatever trains enamored him then... thanks so much!