I have a set of old Lionel O scale trains that my Dad gave me back in the late 60’s .
I have not used them in over 20 years and noticed that some of them need small repairs such as wiring on the main locomotive and smaller items on the other trains etc…
The set includes about ten trains total including tracks and other items.
My question is how do I go about getting these trains repaired and find out the actual age and what the value of these trains are worth.
I live in the Phoenix area and would like to know if anyone on here can recommend a shop in this area that can help me with this.
The Lionel web site has a list of authorized service stations. That would be a place to start. Though with old trains, you might have to search a bit to find the parts you need. Lots of companies that do work like this advertise in Calssic Toy Trains magazine. Pick up a copy and make phone calls and check web sites.
As far as dating and determining value of the trains, look for a copy of Greenburg’s Pocket Guide to Lionel Trains. I’ve seen these in the large chain book stores like Border’s. Remember - it is a guide and the high values listed are for like new, never used trains. Look around on e-bay too.
Chasing around for that widget or special car you need is half of the fun in this hobby. You meet lots of interesting people.
If you want to fix it yourself you could get greenburgs guide to postwar trains repair I’m sure some of the big book stores have it or can order it for you
parts I recomend www.ttender.com Jeff@ttender.com he can get most parts if not all you need. Olsens is another but not sure of exact web address. If you go to the web address for the train tender it has a phone number and jeff will answer and very helpfull. Jeff normally has the postwar repair manual instock also.
To find the engine in any of the referrences use the number on the side of the engine, this holds for most older items. You could also do a search on e-bay using the number and Toys and Hobbies as the catagory. Try going to the closed/finished items to get a feel of what the market value is.
If you post the cab numbers here we can tell you what year they are and give a ball park figure according to the Greenberg book. Shouldn’t be a problem finding a local repair shop. You can call Chuck Sartor at Mizells trains in Westminster Colorado.
Roger