Any recommendations on obtaining spare parts for engines, cars and accessories.
I’ve purchased some postwar items off of Ebay during the past few months and have been cleaning and repairing them. Most are well used (played with) items that require a good cleaning and oiling. Some require replacement parts. I’m not overly concerned about using original parts (though it would be nice). I more interested in getting the item working.
Who has a great selection? Who has good service? Does anyone have both?
Do you get your parts from local shops, over the internet or at train shows or from a combination sources[?]
I personally buy from Grandpa’s Toy Train Parts in Union, Kentucky. He offers excellent service, and has yet to not have a part that I needed. I originally bought from him at shows, but have since switched over to mail order, and have received equally excellent and prompt service.
I normally keep a business card on my desk, but have misplaced it for the moment and can’t locate his phone number. His e-mail adress, though, is grampstrains@aol.com .
I recently bought some postwar parts from these guys by mail. Their prices and postage / shipping charges are very reasonable. And they’re happy to handle very small orders.
I have had good results with Warren’s, but since moving to Florida I buy my parts from Hollash’s Trains (Bill & Jean Hollash) of Riverview, FL. They are excellent to deal with and Jean has more than gone the extra mile several times to research and special order parts for me. I have yet to need a part that she can’t locate.
They don’t have a website, but you can email hollashtrains@aol.com or call them at (813) 671-0422.
Jim
Jeff Kane at the Train Tender. He has a very large selection of pre and post war parts. And very helpful, and the best part, super fast service. It has never taken more than 3 or 4 days to receive parts from him.
I work just down the road from Dr. Tinker’s place and have dropped in on him several times. He’s well stocked with parts, he’s fair priced and does nice work.
Another vote for the Train Tender. I have been buying from him for years and I always get the parts like lightening. His selection is unmatched. Jeff, you are the man!
I like to use Hollash’s Trains in Riverview FL, didn’t know they had an email or website.
Used to use Orange Blossom Hobbies in N.E. Miami but they shut down, another place I used to use was Roy Bell’s hobby shop on N.E. 7th st. in Miami before he died.
Finding local parts very hard here in south Florida.
Lee F. in West Palm Beach FL
I like to order from Log Cabin Train Shop. The owner, Bill Trushel, is extremely knowledgeable, and is the nicest, most honest person I ever dealt with. He does not mind if you have a question. He stocks parts from all eras of Lionel production. He also is a Lionel service station. His prices are very reasonable, and he has no minium order. He has many hard to find parts.