It is a great looking set Dave. And you answered the question if you broke the budget, you are happy with the acquisition. In most cases, oil and grease are required before even running. So many of older Lionel pieces have not see the light of day for years. I recently acquired a Santa Fe and New York Central set of 2333's. From the way the person talked, I don't think they have seen the light of day for almost 45 years! So they are due for an overhaul. Part of that deal were 10 2500 series passenger cars. I pretty much spent my yearly budget for trains, but I was happy with the acquisition. The F3's were something I had been looking for a long time. They were in very good shape for being roughly 74 years old.
I checked all my references Dave you have a rare unlisted only 1 set made it’s called the Febreeze Express it’s priceless. Good job ! It’s amazing that engine won’t move u give it a nudge and it works! We have all experienced this phenomenon. Keep enjoy what you do!
You had me going there for a second! It is priceless 😆 I can’t wait to see what a good cleaning will do, should run beautifully after, even if it does still smell. I’m the upside, I was just painting in the garage so now that’s all I smell
We are invested in a hobby where we see it, like it, love it, want it and gotta have it but within reason. We all have been there where we went over budget on buying an engine, rolling stock or train set, I know I have. As long as it's not to often and you enjoy your purchase, enjoy railroading everybody.
I've spent more than I wanted to on current-production historically correct models, all of which had electronic features I'll never use and which certainly added to the cost. Now I've got all of those I wanted so it's back to the good old really affordable conventional models. A lot more affordable and definately more fixable!
It is a set I needed. But I had wanted to avoid spending for a few months. I’m thrilled to have it, it’s just that my wife isn’t thrilled I spent the money!
Dude you will be totally amazed at what the evaporist can do about 2 years ago I bought a whole bunch of track three box fulls gave me about 60 curved about 120 straight all of old Lionel and they were Rusty and they were corroded and I put them in the evapor rust let them soak for 24 hours and took them out and put them in the oven at 300° for 20 minutes to dry them out and they look like brand new and the best part of it is the evapor rust gets inside the rail and helps to make a better connection soak it down with some WD-40 wipe the tops down on the rails and you are golden..... Parts, track, accessories you name it it will clean it to almost like new condition you will not be disappointed
I knew it! I guessed right that it was going to be the Chicago Alton! I loved the look of that red engine just like the Blue Comet and Southern Crescent since I was very young!That tone of red is amazing in my book!
The MPC Chicago Alton is a GREAT addition to your collection!!! If buying another train set is a sickness there are a LOT of us with the same illness! I bought this set last year. It’s a sharp looking set. Enjoy your new purchase!
I always liked that set. The closest I got was the C&O 4-4-2 and the additional cars for the Pennsylvania set and the Harry Truman Campaign observation car. Later I pulled it with a Williams GG 1 I got at an appliance store for 90.00.
Awesome Set Dave.! Don't feel alone I have a train problem as well. Love the sound of the trains running on that tube track it's just fantastic. Thanks for the Video.! 👍Mark😀
Nice looking set, Dave! I applying some oil and grease to the locomotive made a noticeable difference in the operation. It does look like a fun set. Congratulations! Bill B.
It looks like you took a chance on a winner, Dave! With a little attention to lube, oil and a quick repair job on a pick-up roller, that stunning consist rolls like it was meant to. With a little more care, I'm sure that train will be more impressive. Glad you made a great deal.
Great score Dave. Congratulations on getting this set that you wanted for such a long time. A little cleaning, preventative maintenance, and lighting upgrades will make this set spectacular. You should do a video on the cleaning and PM, a video testing the sound board in the tender, and if it works, 🤞 cleaning off the old foam rubber, and securing back down with Scotch double sided foam tape, and a video on your passenger car lighting upgrades! That would make for a great series.
Thanks! I hope to do an in depth video, or videos, on the cleaning and updating of this model. The sound board is not operating properly, the horn stays on constantly. I may have to switch it out for another board
Nice!!!!! That’s the next set I will collect just picked up the Chessie Steam Special all 6 cars also have all 6 Blue Comet cars no locomotive just too expensive on EBay hopefully I can find one at a reasonable price not now though and do have the entire Southern Crescent love those MPC trains I too a budget collector/operator nice buy Dav
Dave, I attended a train auction today and there were modern era Lionel sets, engines, cars and accessories ALL new in the boxes. I bid the Chicago and Alton engine and tender to $235 - all my budget would stand. It sold for $ 245
Not the end of the world, there's others out there. Here's the trouble with auctions, some people can get in a "Gotta have it!" frenzy and drive the price up, which is certainly good for the seller but in this case no so good for you. And it seems there's always someone there with more dough than you've got. Both of the above are the reasons I don't bother with auctions. You'll be a lot better off hunting at train shows where's there's likely to be competition between exhibitors.
@@dagryffynhobby That's actually not too bad, especially considering what the new stuff with all the electronics in 'em go for. Sometimes you can get lucky like I did and get off under $200. If I like it and it's less than two bills I jump on it.
I was LMBO at the start of the video! Really enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing. I've wanted a set like that, just haven't let myself pull the trigger. But with your skills you can fix stuff. Good Job!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! 😆 I’ve wanted the set but wasn’t ready to spend too much on it, but it came up with just the right price, couldn’t let it go. I will clean it and it should be great,
@@dagryffynhobby Trainz has got 3 MPC's.....206, 283, and 302.....engine and tender in original boxes plus shipping. Working with Trainz is great BUT I just can't pull the trigger PLUS finding the cars. Have a great W/E
Great find. A little TLC and she'll run like a clock. I can't wait to see a vid in the dark with the LED lights in the cars. Maybe you could put some clear material in the widows and some human figures inside?
Thanks! Yeah led lit cars in the dark is going to be neat. Clear windows would require modifying the roof of the cars since the windows are molded into it, that doesn’t mean I won’t try, it just might be a while.
For less than two bills that's a hell of set Dave, even if it's got a case of the "whiffs." You can most likely kill the aroma by giving it a scrub-down in a bath of water and dish detergent then putting it out in the sun to air dry, or just leaving it on some shop towels in the garage. I'm not a C&A fan but that set's gorgeous! "Somebody stop me!" Yeah, I can understand. If I don't stop spending money on engines I'll NEVER get people on the layout. The town looks like a neutron bomb went off, buildings but no people! The club's train show is coming up August 6th, so it's a given I'll come away with another engine, always happens.
I’m going to take it all apart and clean it, re wire it, add LEDs, so it will all get a nice bath. I’m not a C&A fan necessarily but I just wanted to set. It goes so well with the others from that era. If I can stop spending for a few months that would be good, but I don’t know if I’m that’s strong! No people, I barely have buildings!
I always bought excellent condition American Flyer. I am a detective with sellers. Nothing missing, no chips, very little rust if any. Close up photos helped a lot. Mostly lightly run and what most people think is clean is still dirty to me. I am the factory clean🙍. I have lots of like new items in original boxes because I am an expert in my judgement after collecting since 1961! Clean with pure mineral oil especially on plastic. Every thing else will ruin it or melt it, especially Alcohol. Use track cleaning fluid made by Lionel for track only and Scotch brite pads are safe and work well. Removes light rust too, and safely on metal only. WD40 is messy for track. That 626 spray stuff is best I have heard. I forgot who makes it.
You must have one beautiful collection! I don’t mind flaws if it means I can get it cheaper. Mineral oil, got it. Early on I tried wd-40 on the track, it cleans it, but the residue it leaves! My rails ended up sticky! Now I just use a scotch brite pad and alcohol.
Great showing and oil and lube job. Yes you can carefully put light oil on the center roller shaft ends as well. I have seen recently instruction to do that, but I would wipe off any excess ASAP once it gets rolling lose again. Speaking of things it a un-expected state that you buy. I received a set of cars this week that appeared dirty from age, but when I got them it looks like someone had their fun with wood or Elmers glue; just sloped here and there over these cars. Cleaned the simple box car Thursday evening with dish soap and a tooth brush three times with some picking at this glue like substance a few times as well. Did not get it all off, but then again perfect is not as realistic for a running layout anyhow. The one gondola is the worst. Oh, when I started buying trains again, to me it is a wiser investment then parking my money away in the bank, at the rate our inflation is rising.
Thanks! I do try and avoid oiling the center rail pickup, but sometimes it does help, but yeah, wiping off excess is a must. I hate when stuff, like glue, is stuck to the train, you run the rust of damaging them further just trying to clean it.
Buying Train Stuff is Not a Crime in any Way you look At it. It’s Your money it Beats Going to a Bar. If We Love Trains we Love Trains. If We Want to go Train Tarded for Trains let us. Nice train. Love the Layout And Good luck in your Layout.
Just cleaned grandma's attic and got some old lionel trains still in their boxes and they smell just like that ! Not sure what I got but good condition all the same
Beautiful set! I'm going with factory error for the wight rim drivers on one side only. I find it odd that Lionel did not bother to put passenger silhouettes on the windows.
Thanks! Factory error, interesting, didn’t think of that. I don’t think any of these MPC era sets had silhouettes. Never really thought about it. Now I kind of want to add some.
Wish I could be there, the Edison show is the Greenberg "Gold Standard!" But I'm 350 miles away! I was lucky enough to make the Edison show twice, I was in the area for visits to begin with.
On camera the set looks clean. I hope you can add that extra car, clean it all up, and do another run session because this is one set I don’t think I’ve seen before. I kinda think we’re all a bit hypocritical cuz I’ve been telling myself “no more buying”. And then came the UP caboose and boxcar and 4piece passenger car set all in the greyhound scheme And more stuff on the way LOL
The set is in pretty good condition, a good cleaning will make it better. I will definitely be running this, along with the other MPC era sets. Well, I’m done buying now, I just got a talking to about this one!
Under $200 is a fair price for a running steam locomotive: with the passenger cars, that is a good deal! Congratulations! It's a nice looking set - one of the few from this era I'm interested in (I'm a pre-WWII tinplater). The K-Line version of this set is handsome too, but they seem to go for more $, probably because there's more detail on those. Your stench may from the set living in a smoker's home for years? It's a distinct odor. I opened up a box from eBay this week with that reek. Best solution I have is washing the shells with a solution of mild soap & water (obviously avoiding electronics), letting them dry thoroughly, and setting them outside in the sun for a few hours to air/vent out. Enjoy! 😀 P.S. White vinegar is effective at removing rust too: just soak overnight, then scrub with an old toothbrush and dish soap.
I’m thrilled with the price. The cheapest I found just the engine previously was $150 and it was a mess. I do like the K Line passenger cars, the extra details are a nice touch. The smell is finally dissipating. Not too bad. The set will definitely get a good cleaning. I haven’t tried white vinegar. I’d like to give that a shot too.
Did you get the Mighty sound of Steam tender? I bought a set of cars that were a little more premium grade and then acquired an engine and tender to pull them. It's just that my tender needs a rheostat or a resistor to quiet it down. Have you ever experienced that with those tenders?
I have found the sound of steam to be wildly unreliable and not at all uniform. It may be due to design or due to time and usage. Some of the later boards may have a small adjustment on the board to change the volume. Most of my sound of steam boards are out of the tenders and awaiting a day that I feel brave enough to work on them .
Maybe you have a very rare Factory defect model where it's white on one side and black on the other side could be highly collectable. Just yanking your chain.
I take all of the MPC passenger train sets did not have Silhouettes in the windows come to think of it. Is Jersey Comet doesn't his Southern Crescent doesn't and my Milwaukee special doesn't so maybe they don't have silhouettes stock from the factory
The C&A is a nice set. I was able to replace a broken wheel on the tender and runs perfect! I have been saying no more buying too. I have made a deal with myself, I am looking for MPC blue comet set and MPC Wabash Fallen Flags Steam engine. And then that’s it!!! Promise!
You have a problem Dave. You need to admit. As a friend, I will help you. The first step in the healing process is to get rid of the trains. Because I am your friend and want to help, I will allow you to send me all of your trains. You are welcome!! Kidding aside, great eBay find!
Dave great catch. And for an Super Dave price. It's my favorite train from that mpc era. Would you consider switching out the trailing truck to make it a Pacific and not a Hudson since the Alton didn’t run Hudsons with this train? Hopefully we will get to see the full color special of the Crescent, Alton and Blue Comet for a train zen moment. What is the Dave price for an extra passenger car?
Switching out the four-wheel truck for a two-wheel Pacific type's not too difficult, I've done it with a post-war Lionel 2065. My only complaint, for lack of a better term, with post-war and MPC Era Lionel steam engines is the majority are all "Variations On A Hudson" with little variety otherwise. All railroads didn't run Hudsons after all. But it's a minor beef, better than no Lionels at all! Hey, next train show I'll be looking for a rough condition Lionel 736 Berkshire I can re-do into a Mikado! Wish me luck!
Not a bad idea. I’ve thought of switching the trailing truck on other locos, haven’t had much luck with them fitting right, but if I get a good parts supply I should be able to find one that fits well eventually. If I can get the upper loop completed then I can run three of the trains together, and that would be awesome. If I look for an extra car, I like it to be 15 but would go up to 20. Maybe 25 for a diner car.
@@dagryffynhobby it's from a Canadian show called Trailer Park Boys where a character named Bubbles is obsessed with trainsets, and they used his train set to transport weed from US to Canada lol they called it the Patrick Swayze Express
Maybe the covid has affected your judgement Dave...lol. All kidding aside that is a bargain. Nice pairing with the Blue Comet and with your skills it will be smelling and running like new. I have had good success with white vinegar for rust and cleaning. I enjoy your channel.
Dave, I am so glad you got a Chicago and Alton set. It and the Powhatan Arrow are my favorite mpc era sets. Quite honestly, don't complain about the stank, $200 for the complete set is a bargain. Now, did the seller illustrate the unpainted drivers? If not, I would contact them and complain. You may get a partial refund. I'm sure you know how to paint them!
The smell is going away, and for the price I wouldn’t care if it hung on longer. I saw the condition of the drivers in the posting, I’d love to know the story behind it.
@@dagryffynhobby You're an excellent speaker and down to earth guy. A RUclips on escaping this lifes drama (that's affected everyone recently) can be achieved by this hobby or something similar would be viral. I trust the Lord for my needs but trains are very helpful for quick smiles and satisfaction. Consider, Dave. Have a good weekend.
For less than $200 any of those MPC passenger sets is a steal as long as it is in decent runable condition and yours is. One thing that I absolutely love about the MPC era is that they added a pop of color to the steam engines. The big Post War steamers from Lionel were all black with only the 746 having a small pop of color. Some of the smaller steamers had some red and blue stripes, but even they were mostly black. Then in the MPC era out came steamers in an impressive array of colors with passenger sets to match. I have the Wabash and Norfolk & Western sets from the MPC era and absolutely love running them.
There is no such thing as too much stuff. I am disappointed if I go to a train show and I go home still with money. I always take at least three or four hundred dollars cash with me for the people who don't take plastic. I have run out of money at train shows and still wanted to buy something and the guy didn't take plastic but his friends would ring up the sale so I can get my purchase and he would get his money. After all we are not normal people! We are train people!
Personally before I buy it I want to see it in person. Maybe I miss out on a lot of good deals not buying on-line but that doesn't bother me in the least, it's worth it for the peace of mind.
Train shopping will Be Train shopping It’s Not a Crime If I did That I would do it Myself. If I am Gonna spend My Money on Somethig It Would be On trains.
we can never have too many trains
I agree wholeheartedly with you. My wife does not!
@@dagryffynhobby my wife does not realy care she is ok with it
So many trains so little time!!! Trains are so cool!! Home Depot full strength vinegar helps with rust!
It is a great looking set Dave. And you answered the question if you broke the budget, you are happy with the acquisition. In most cases, oil and grease are required before even running. So many of older Lionel pieces have not see the light of day for years. I recently acquired a Santa Fe and New York Central set of 2333's. From the way the person talked, I don't think they have seen the light of day for almost 45 years! So they are due for an overhaul. Part of that deal were 10 2500 series passenger cars. I pretty much spent my yearly budget for trains, but I was happy with the acquisition. The F3's were something I had been looking for a long time. They were in very good shape for being roughly 74 years old.
A good clean and underused set of F3s is awesome. So many of them were abused and show it. Santa Fe and NYCs, that’s just great. And 10 2500s!? Wow!
I checked all my references Dave you have a rare unlisted only 1 set made it’s called the Febreeze Express it’s priceless. Good job ! It’s amazing that engine won’t move u give it a nudge and it works! We have all experienced this phenomenon. Keep enjoy what you do!
You had me going there for a second! It is priceless 😆
I can’t wait to see what a good cleaning will do, should run beautifully after, even if it does still smell. I’m the upside, I was just painting in the garage so now that’s all I smell
It’s amazing what a little repair,oil , and grease will do to the simple mechanical sets . Roll like it’s new again. Well done Dave !
Thanks. That’s why I love them! There really isn’t much that would kill these old trains.
Congratulations. Dad bought us that set 40 years ago and still runs today. And no stink.
It will run forever. Glad yours didn’t come with the smell!
Love it! What a great addiction we have! It does smell funny. But what a great set!
The smell is starting to dissipate finally. Or my nose just can’t detect it anymore.
"I have this shopping problem"
Dave, that is so unbelievably relatable, especially in this hobby
Oh definitely. But I’ll stop for now if I know what’s good for me!
I understand totally. Nice fun video, reminds me of my self !
It just may be a sickness we all share!
Dave, Dave, Dave. No self control -- good for you. Love to see a video of the LED install for lights in the passenger cards. Thanks again.
Thanks! I know, I’m pathetic! 😂
Hopefully I’ll have a few vids on this set
Another great/fun video
Thanks!
Absolut cool trains
Thanks for watching!
Ebay it's just part of my day.nice find.
Definitely. There is just too much good stuff out there!
Dave nice set couldn't resist eh, i.get it, all she needs now is a bright led for a headlight right ? 👍👌🇺🇸😎
I could not resist. A bright led headlight would be nice, what I did on the blue comet didn’t work so I’ll have to come up with a new plan.
So funny. “I am done, for awhile.” So many times I have said the same thing.
I’ve said it so many times!
A really nice set , great colours from an underrated era of Lionel production, it was a great budget price so falls well within the channels realm.
Thanks. I agree!
We are invested in a hobby where we see it, like it, love it, want it and gotta have it but within reason. We all have been there where we went over budget on buying an engine, rolling stock or train set, I know I have. As long as it's not to often and you enjoy your purchase, enjoy railroading everybody.
I've spent more than I wanted to on current-production historically correct models, all of which had electronic features I'll never use and which certainly added to the cost. Now I've got all of those I wanted so it's back to the good old really affordable conventional models. A lot more affordable and definately more fixable!
It is a set I needed. But I had wanted to avoid spending for a few months. I’m thrilled to have it, it’s just that my wife isn’t thrilled I spent the money!
Dude you will be totally amazed at what the evaporist can do about 2 years ago I bought a whole bunch of track three box fulls gave me about 60 curved about 120 straight all of old Lionel and they were Rusty and they were corroded and I put them in the evapor rust let them soak for 24 hours and took them out and put them in the oven at 300° for 20 minutes to dry them out and they look like brand new and the best part of it is the evapor rust gets inside the rail and helps to make a better connection soak it down with some WD-40 wipe the tops down on the rails and you are golden..... Parts, track, accessories you name it it will clean it to almost like new condition you will not be disappointed
The Evaporust didn’t damage the center rail isolators?
I have a whole lot of rusty track that would be great to resurrect.
Love seeing all the cool stuff you find and watching the layout progress. Cant wait to see what you find next!
Thanks! Hopefully I don’t find anything for a while!
Nothing wrong with splurging! That’s a really nice set and you got a great deal! Another great video Dave.
Thanks Corey. I’m really happy with it.
I knew it! I guessed right that it was going to be the Chicago Alton! I loved the look of that red engine just like the Blue Comet and Southern Crescent since I was very young!That tone of red is amazing in my book!
After only ever having the pre/post war steamers in black, the colors are a great addition to the collection.
The MPC Chicago Alton is a GREAT addition to your collection!!! If buying another train set is a sickness there are a LOT of us with the same illness!
I bought this set last year. It’s a sharp looking set. Enjoy your new purchase!
Thanks! I do love it. I really need to get some shelves up to display these sets.
Dave,
You scored big again! A little bit of cleaning and lubing and all of the magic is back!
(You may have a rare variation... )
Enjoy it.
Thanks Henry. 👍
I always liked that set. The closest I got was the C&O 4-4-2 and the additional cars for the Pennsylvania set and the Harry Truman Campaign observation car. Later I pulled it with a Williams GG 1 I got at an appliance store for 90.00.
It’s nice! That all sounds good to me. And a gg1 for 90? That’s a win!
Great buy, Dave, maybe they previously shipped a dead skunk in that box!
Entirely possible! Haha.
Awesome set Dave! Love the color! 👍😎
Thanks! It’s a handsome set
Nice find, Dave. Good lubricating tutorial too. 😉👍
Thank you John 👍
Awesome Set Dave.! Don't feel alone I have a train problem as well. Love the sound of the trains running on that tube track it's just fantastic. Thanks for the Video.! 👍Mark😀
Thanks Mark. That’s what I love about this, support and commiseration from fellow addicts, I mean hobbyists.
@@dagryffynhobby 😂
No complaining man...when your in it....you buy the farm...that's the joy.
Totally! 👍
Good find Dave! Love the 2 tone red and maroon passenger cars from that set.
Thanks! It does look pretty good!
Nice looking set, Dave! I applying some oil and grease to the locomotive made a noticeable difference in the operation. It does look like a fun set. Congratulations! Bill B.
Thanks Bill. Yup a little lubrication did a world of good. Should be even better after a complete cleaning. I’m enjoying it so far!
It looks like you took a chance on a winner, Dave! With a little attention to lube, oil and a quick repair job on a pick-up roller, that stunning consist rolls like it was meant to. With a little more care, I'm sure that train will be more impressive. Glad you made a great deal.
Thanks! It turned out pretty well. Definitely could have gone the other way. I hope I have time soon to really clean it up.
Great score Dave. Congratulations on getting this set that you wanted for such a long time. A little cleaning, preventative maintenance, and lighting upgrades will make this set spectacular. You should do a video on the cleaning and PM, a video testing the sound board in the tender, and if it works, 🤞 cleaning off the old foam rubber, and securing back down with Scotch double sided foam tape, and a video on your passenger car lighting upgrades! That would make for a great series.
Thanks! I hope to do an in depth video, or videos, on the cleaning and updating of this model. The sound board is not operating properly, the horn stays on constantly. I may have to switch it out for another board
Nice!!!!! That’s the next set I will collect just picked up the Chessie Steam Special all 6 cars also have all 6 Blue Comet cars no locomotive just too expensive on EBay hopefully I can find one at a reasonable price not now though and do have the entire Southern Crescent love those MPC trains I too a budget collector/operator nice buy Dav
Thanks Mike. This was the cheapest I got one of these sets. The southern crescent cost me a flat 200, and I think the blue comet was 230.
Dave, I attended a train auction today and there were modern era Lionel sets, engines, cars and accessories ALL new in the boxes. I bid the Chicago and Alton engine and tender to $235 - all my budget would stand. It sold for $ 245
There were no cars with it.
Not the end of the world, there's others out there.
Here's the trouble with auctions, some people can get in a "Gotta have it!" frenzy and drive the price up, which is certainly good for the seller but in this case no so good for you. And it seems there's always someone there with more dough than you've got. Both of the above are the reasons I don't bother with auctions.
You'll be a lot better off hunting at train shows where's there's likely to be competition between exhibitors.
Most of the times I’ve seen the larger MPC engines, people are asking around 200 for just the engine.
@@dagryffynhobby That's actually not too bad, especially considering what the new stuff with all the electronics in 'em go for. Sometimes you can get lucky like I did and get off under $200. If I like it and it's less than two bills I jump on it.
I was LMBO at the start of the video! Really enjoyed the video, thanks for sharing. I've wanted a set like that, just haven't let myself pull the trigger. But with your skills you can fix stuff. Good Job!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! 😆
I’ve wanted the set but wasn’t ready to spend too much on it, but it came up with just the right price, couldn’t let it go.
I will clean it and it should be great,
@@dagryffynhobby Trainz has got 3 MPC's.....206, 283, and 302.....engine and tender in original boxes plus shipping. Working with Trainz is great BUT I just can't pull the trigger PLUS finding the cars. Have a great W/E
Great find. A little TLC and she'll run like a clock. I can't wait to see a vid in the dark with the LED lights in the cars. Maybe you could put some clear material in the widows and some human figures inside?
Thanks! Yeah led lit cars in the dark is going to be neat.
Clear windows would require modifying the roof of the cars since the windows are molded into it, that doesn’t mean I won’t try, it just might be a while.
Nice set 😀👍
Thanks!!
For less than two bills that's a hell of set Dave, even if it's got a case of the "whiffs." You can most likely kill the aroma by giving it a scrub-down in a bath of water and dish detergent then putting it out in the sun to air dry, or just leaving it on some shop towels in the garage.
I'm not a C&A fan but that set's gorgeous!
"Somebody stop me!" Yeah, I can understand. If I don't stop spending money on engines I'll NEVER get people on the layout. The town looks like a neutron bomb went off, buildings but no people!
The club's train show is coming up August 6th, so it's a given I'll come away with another engine, always happens.
I’m going to take it all apart and clean it, re wire it, add LEDs, so it will all get a nice bath.
I’m not a C&A fan necessarily but I just wanted to set. It goes so well with the others from that era.
If I can stop spending for a few months that would be good, but I don’t know if I’m that’s strong!
No people, I barely have buildings!
@@dagryffynhobby Certainly a hard set to resist, the color's absolutley beautiful!
I always bought excellent condition American Flyer. I am a detective with sellers. Nothing missing, no chips, very little rust if any. Close up photos helped a lot. Mostly lightly run and what most people think is clean is still dirty to me. I am the factory clean🙍. I have lots of like new items in original boxes because I am an expert in my judgement after collecting since 1961! Clean with pure mineral oil especially on plastic. Every thing else will ruin it or melt it, especially Alcohol. Use track cleaning fluid made by Lionel for track only and Scotch brite pads are safe and work well. Removes light rust too, and safely on metal only. WD40 is messy for track. That 626 spray stuff is best I have heard. I forgot who makes it.
You must have one beautiful collection!
I don’t mind flaws if it means I can get it cheaper.
Mineral oil, got it.
Early on I tried wd-40 on the track, it cleans it, but the residue it leaves! My rails ended up sticky!
Now I just use a scotch brite pad and alcohol.
Evapo-rust is just shy of amazing. I just tried it for the first time about a month ago.
People keep recommending it and I keep saying I’ll try it. And never do. It’s about time!
No stopping now! You don’t want to be known as a quitter do you? Love watching your vids!
I do not want to be a quitter!
Thanks!
I can’t stop either looking at e bay can always sell if you have to
I figure if I get a good deal on everything, then if I have to sell, at least I should be able to make a few bucks on it.
And it’s fun buying trains I quit smoking to buy trains lol 😆
Nice set
Thanks, I m enjoying it.
Great showing and oil and lube job. Yes you can carefully put light oil on the center roller shaft ends as well. I have seen recently instruction to do that, but I would wipe off any excess ASAP once it gets rolling lose again. Speaking of things it a un-expected state that you buy. I received a set of cars this week that appeared dirty from age, but when I got them it looks like someone had their fun with wood or Elmers glue; just sloped here and there over these cars. Cleaned the simple box car Thursday evening with dish soap and a tooth brush three times with some picking at this glue like substance a few times as well. Did not get it all off, but then again perfect is not as realistic for a running layout anyhow. The one gondola is the worst. Oh, when I started buying trains again, to me it is a wiser investment then parking my money away in the bank, at the rate our inflation is rising.
Thanks! I do try and avoid oiling the center rail pickup, but sometimes it does help, but yeah, wiping off excess is a must.
I hate when stuff, like glue, is stuck to the train, you run the rust of damaging them further just trying to clean it.
Buying Train Stuff is Not a Crime in any Way you look At it. It’s Your money it Beats Going to a Bar. If We Love Trains we Love Trains. If We Want to go Train Tarded for Trains let us. Nice train. Love the Layout And Good luck in your Layout.
Thanks!
Train tarded! I love it. I’ve been good since but I found myself on eBay this morning. Didn’t find anything good yet.
Just cleaned grandma's attic and got some old lionel trains still in their boxes and they smell just like that ! Not sure what I got but good condition all the same
Nice! I’d be interested in knowing what you found. I love finding old trains!
Beautiful set! I'm going with factory error for the wight rim drivers on one side only. I find it odd that Lionel did not bother to put passenger silhouettes on the windows.
Thanks! Factory error, interesting, didn’t think of that. I don’t think any of these MPC era sets had silhouettes. Never really thought about it. Now I kind of want to add some.
Maybe I’ll see you at Greenberg’s next weekend
Wish I could be there, the Edison show is the Greenberg "Gold Standard!" But I'm 350 miles away! I was lucky enough to make the Edison show twice, I was in the area for visits to begin with.
Not sure which day I’m going, but I do hope to get there.
Somebody stop you? How about no! 😁😁
Yes, please lead me into temptation!
I always thought the MPC Chicago & Alton set (next to the Blue Comet) was ine of Lionel's best!
It’s a nice one. Hopefully I can get this one all cleaned up and repaired before too long.
Those MPC guys may have been cut-rate engineers, but they sure were artists when it came topaint schemes.
They sure did make some interesting variations. I’m sure they weren’t given the budget for new stuff
On camera the set looks clean. I hope you can add that extra car, clean it all up, and do another run session because this is one set I don’t think I’ve seen before. I kinda think we’re all a bit hypocritical cuz I’ve been telling myself “no more buying”. And then came the UP caboose and boxcar and 4piece passenger car set all in the greyhound scheme And more stuff on the way LOL
The set is in pretty good condition, a good cleaning will make it better. I will definitely be running this, along with the other MPC era sets.
Well, I’m done buying now, I just got a talking to about this one!
@@dagryffynhobby hahahaha - oops!
Under $200 is a fair price for a running steam locomotive: with the passenger cars, that is a good deal! Congratulations! It's a nice looking set - one of the few from this era I'm interested in (I'm a pre-WWII tinplater). The K-Line version of this set is handsome too, but they seem to go for more $, probably because there's more detail on those. Your stench may from the set living in a smoker's home for years? It's a distinct odor. I opened up a box from eBay this week with that reek. Best solution I have is washing the shells with a solution of mild soap & water (obviously avoiding electronics), letting them dry thoroughly, and setting them outside in the sun for a few hours to air/vent out. Enjoy! 😀
P.S. White vinegar is effective at removing rust too: just soak overnight, then scrub with an old toothbrush and dish soap.
I’m thrilled with the price. The cheapest I found just the engine previously was $150 and it was a mess.
I do like the K Line passenger cars, the extra details are a nice touch.
The smell is finally dissipating. Not too bad.
The set will definitely get a good cleaning.
I haven’t tried white vinegar. I’d like to give that a shot too.
2 days later… goes to eBay again. It is a very nice set reminds me of the polar express cars from 2006.
Nope, no eBay for me. Not if I know what’s good for me!
I think all those baby Madison’s used the same mold.
That set will air out on its own.
If it doesn’t, I’ll still enjoy running it.
Did you get the Mighty sound of Steam tender? I bought a set of cars that were a little more premium grade and then acquired an engine and tender to pull them. It's just that my tender needs a rheostat or a resistor to quiet it down. Have you ever experienced that with those tenders?
I have found the sound of steam to be wildly unreliable and not at all uniform.
It may be due to design or due to time and usage. Some of the later boards may have a small adjustment on the board to change the volume.
Most of my sound of steam boards are out of the tenders and awaiting a day that I feel brave enough to work on them .
I got the same problem, I see a HO locomotive I like, I buy it.
I feel your pain
Maybe you have a very rare Factory defect model where it's white on one side and black on the other side could be highly collectable. Just yanking your chain.
Factory error or not, the drivers have since been painted, so I hope it wasn’t worth a lot of money! Haha
I take all of the MPC passenger train sets did not have Silhouettes in the windows come to think of it. Is Jersey Comet doesn't his Southern Crescent doesn't and my Milwaukee special doesn't so maybe they don't have silhouettes stock from the factory
I believe the cars of that era did not have silhouettes at all. Some of the later era baby Madison’s do though
The C&A is a nice set. I was able to replace a broken wheel on the tender and runs perfect!
I have been saying no more buying too. I have made a deal with myself, I am looking for MPC blue comet set and MPC Wabash Fallen Flags Steam engine. And then that’s it!!! Promise!
I keep making deals with myself and then breaking them. But that’s it now. I’m done! (Probably)
@@dagryffynhobby yup sounds familiar!!
We all have the sickness e bay is a disease lol I have the same problem dave
The cure may come in the form of a good swift butt kicking from my wife! 😆
You have a problem Dave. You need to admit. As a friend, I will help you. The first step in the healing process is to get rid of the trains. Because I am your friend and want to help, I will allow you to send me all of your trains. You are welcome!!
Kidding aside, great eBay find!
I appreciate the support! 😆
Not another one!
What can I say? I’m sick, I need help!
It's better than shoes right
Yup!
She just needs some tlc😊
Every train I have needs tlc!
Spending Money on Model Railroading is Better than Going to a Bar hands Down.
Definitely! Healthier and easier to explain! Lol.
Sweet. To me, “budget friendly” includes buying out an estate. The total dollars spent may be equal, but we get FAR more than one engine.
Great point Bill. I would not spend 2500 on one engine, but a collection? That would be much better.
Dave great catch. And for an Super Dave price. It's my favorite train from that mpc era. Would you consider switching out the trailing truck to make it a Pacific and not a Hudson since the Alton didn’t run Hudsons with this train? Hopefully we will get to see the full color special of the Crescent, Alton and Blue Comet for a train zen moment. What is the Dave price for an extra passenger car?
Switching out the four-wheel truck for a two-wheel Pacific type's not too difficult, I've done it with a post-war Lionel 2065.
My only complaint, for lack of a better term, with post-war and MPC Era Lionel steam engines is the majority are all "Variations On A Hudson" with little variety otherwise. All railroads didn't run Hudsons after all. But it's a minor beef, better than no Lionels at all!
Hey, next train show I'll be looking for a rough condition Lionel 736 Berkshire I can re-do into a Mikado! Wish me luck!
Not a bad idea. I’ve thought of switching the trailing truck on other locos, haven’t had much luck with them fitting right, but if I get a good parts supply I should be able to find one that fits well eventually.
If I can get the upper loop completed then I can run three of the trains together, and that would be awesome.
If I look for an extra car, I like it to be 15 but would go up to 20. Maybe 25 for a diner car.
@@wayneantoniazzi2706 good luck getting a 736 for that project!
@@dagryffynhobby Thanks! We've got the club show this weekend, keeping my fingers crossed!
You can send it back if it’s not to your liking!
Heck no!! I’ll clean it up and it will be great! And if it still smells, it’s ok, my sense of smell has never been very strong.
Ahhhh Flea Bay……..
Now that’s funny ,I like it . “ flea bay” lol .
No fleas this time, just stink 😂
Is that the Patrick Swayze Express??
I don’t get the reference. I mean I know who he is but how does it apply to the train?
@@dagryffynhobby it's from a Canadian show called Trailer Park Boys where a character named Bubbles is obsessed with trainsets, and they used his train set to transport weed from US to Canada lol they called it the Patrick Swayze Express
@@dagryffynhobby m.ruclips.net/video/iAbZi14-i6s/видео.html
@@BlueCollarDude101 gotcha! One more reason I should probably watch that show 👍
@@dagryffynhobby definitely brother
Hey Dave I have a rare Lionel AC⚡️DC train set custom painted
Sweet!
@@dagryffynhobby I uploaded a video of the Lionel ac dc train
Maybe the covid has affected your judgement Dave...lol. All kidding aside that is a bargain. Nice pairing with the Blue Comet and with your skills it will be smelling and running like new. I have had good success with white vinegar for rust and cleaning. I enjoy your channel.
Thanks Kevin! Well the Covid did mess with my brain, it has definitely caused a significant brain fog, although it seems to be going away now.
Hi my name is Dave and I am a train a holic hello Dave hahaha aren't we all
There are a few of us out there!
Dave, I am so glad you got a Chicago and Alton set. It and the Powhatan Arrow are my favorite mpc era sets. Quite honestly, don't complain about the stank, $200 for the complete set is a bargain.
Now, did the seller illustrate the unpainted drivers? If not, I would contact them and complain. You may get a partial refund.
I'm sure you know how to paint them!
The smell is going away, and for the price I wouldn’t care if it hung on longer.
I saw the condition of the drivers in the posting, I’d love to know the story behind it.
We feel your pain; how can you ignore a good deal?
I obviously cannot! But if I had, I would be so mad with myself, so really it’s better for my mental health that I bought it.
@@dagryffynhobby Mental health matters!
@@joeystrains.9316 it really does!
@@dagryffynhobby You're an excellent speaker and down to earth guy. A RUclips on escaping this lifes drama (that's affected everyone recently) can be achieved by this hobby or something similar would be viral. I trust the Lord for my needs but trains are very helpful for quick smiles and satisfaction. Consider, Dave. Have a good weekend.
My Friend When he Has Money He hits Thirtstores and Hits the Mother Load Nothing wrong with that. For Me I Need Some Switches To Finish my Yard.
Thrift stores is a good idea, I should look into that.
You Might Hit and Miss But it’s Worth it.
@@elleryparsons2433 the thrill of a good find would make it worth the time
That’s The Power of Model Railroading.
For less than $200 any of those MPC passenger sets is a steal as long as it is in decent runable condition and yours is.
One thing that I absolutely love about the MPC era is that they added a pop of color to the steam engines. The big Post War steamers from Lionel were all black with only the 746 having a small pop of color. Some of the smaller steamers had some red and blue stripes, but even they were mostly black.
Then in the MPC era out came steamers in an impressive array of colors with passenger sets to match. I have the Wabash and Norfolk & Western sets from the MPC era and absolutely love running them.
The color and affordability is what I like about them. Before these, all my steam engines were black.
There is no such thing as too much stuff. I am disappointed if I go to a train show and I go home still with money. I always take at least three or four hundred dollars cash with me for the people who don't take plastic. I have run out of money at train shows and still wanted to buy something and the guy didn't take plastic but his friends would ring up the sale so I can get my purchase and he would get his money. After all we are not normal people! We are train people!
Trains need to be collected!
Hey, sometimes you just gotta splurge.
Yes, yes you do.
If you can figure out a way to stop yourself from buying on eBay please let us all know.
Personally before I buy it I want to see it in person. Maybe I miss out on a lot of good deals not buying on-line but that doesn't bother me in the least, it's worth it for the peace of mind.
Fear of a beating from my wife does the trick for me!
Train shopping will Be Train shopping It’s Not a Crime If I did That I would do it Myself. If I am Gonna spend My Money on Somethig It Would be On trains.
Trains! You just can’t be unhappy when shopping for trains!