If I have posted this in the wrong spot, I apologize now.
I have some N scale cars and locomotives, that I would like to have some work done on them. I am wondering if anyone can get me in touch with someone that I can send these to, to get them worked on. I have a Hobby Lobby close by, but their N scale selection is extreamly meager at best.
I bought two different Bachman sets, the Thunder Valley and the Empire Builder. The Thunder Valley set, and all the other cars I have, all have the, I’m assuming traditional, Rapido coupler, I think that’s that type. And the Empire Builder came with a knuckle type coupler.
So I am wanting to convert all the couplers over. I am willing to pay for the supplies and time to fix them. I also have two Bachman diesels that need coupler replacemants need to be done to them, and then a Life Like diesel that needs coupler replacement as well as getting some cosmetic work done. For there are some railings that need to be replaced on it.
Replacing couplers are quite easy that should only involve unscrewing the old coupler and screwing on the new one. I would suggest using Micro Trains couplers. Here is a link to their conversion charts: http://micro-trains.com/ConversionsN.php
For the handrails I would either contact Bachmann for parts or look at their parts catalog :http://estore.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=66 If worst comes to worst you could look on ebay for a broken locomotive of the same type to scavenge for parts.
For the Life Like engine, your only chance for parts would be a junker engine. If you want to pay somebody for cosmetic work, I would suggest posting that at The Railwire, a N Scale specific forum with many experts.
As mentioned, coupler conversion on rolling stock isn’t usually too hard. I will say some locos may require a little more work.
Do you have a LHS other than HL? My LHS, though not heavy into model rr’s does have a repair service. I think the owner does some himself and has someone else for the more complex jobs. Another point for keeping our LHSs doors open.