The Lionel Brass Hybrid Challenger is the latest offering in this program for the train maker. First announced in the 2022 Vol. 2 catalog, it’s all-new tooling. This Legacy model is based on Union Pacific’s CSA-2-class 4-6-6-4s, which were the railroad’s earlier, lighter versions. When built in 1937, they were numbered into the 3900 series […]
Where do I find paint for toy train projects? Q: I am looking to restore some of my trains. How do I get started? Where do I find the paint for the job? – Ray Fiorini, Endicott, N.Y. A. Ray, if you have a handy pile of CTT back issues or access to the online […]
Name: Walt Urban Jr.’s HK&WU RR Gauge: ODimensions: 12½ x 16 feet Track and switches: Lionel (diameters range from 31 to 72 inches)Motive power: Lionel (postwar, modern)Rolling stock: Lionel (postwar, modern)Controls: Lionel type-ZW transformers (2)Accessories: Lionel (postwar, modern)Structures: MTH, PlasticvilleVehicles: Lionel Download the track plan for this layout! Buy the Classic Toy Trains […]
Name: Russ Boersma’s O gauge layout Dimensions: 22 x 34 feet Track and switches: GarGraves (diameters from 72 to 120 inches) Motive power: Lionel (postwar, modern), MTH Rolling stock: Atlas O, Lionel (postwar, modern), MTH, Williams Accessories: Lionel (postwar, modern), MTH Controls: Lionel type-ZW, MTH No. Z-4000 transformers with Lionel Legacy and MTH Digital Command […]
Do I need to add a circuit-breaker? Q: I have three postwar Lionel ZW transformers powering my layout. Until recently, I have run only postwar Lionel motive power on it. Now I also have some newer MTH locomotives. I was cautioned by a fellow operator to install a circuit breaker that will trip instantly in […]
How do I clean old Lionel trains? Q: I have a number of Lionel locomotives, freight cars, accessories, and track sections that have been stored in boxes for 55 years. Everything is covered with dust and dirt. What’s the best way to clean these items without ruining the paint and detail? A: For cleaning Lionel […]
What’s the best way to repaint an old Lionel steam locomotive? Q: What is the best way to repaint old Lionel die-cast steamer body shells and diesel frames? I have tried six times with no good result – the paint doesn’t stick very well. What kind of paint should I use? Do I need a […]
Why are my 1950s Lionel Geeps smoking? Q: I have a couple of Lionel Geeps from the 1950s. I took them out of the back and ran them for the first time in a long while the other night. All of a sudden, smoke started coming out of the cab windows. Are they junk now? […]
Fan won’t work on Lionel No. 3530 Generator Car Q: I’ve been have difficulty getting the “fan” to operate correctly on my Lionel No. 3530 Generator Car. It usually takes maximum transformer voltage, and even then the fan turns extremely slowly and stops on every full revolution. The vibrator motor has a rubber washer with […]
Q: I’d like some information about a Lionel tender numbered 234W and lettered for Lionel Lines. I can’t find any mention of this tender in Greenberg’s Guide to Lionel Trains. [Out of print–Ed.] Instead, the book shows a No. 243 engine with a tender numbered 243W. The tender is similar, but not the same. A: […]
Why do my trains slow down when I run them? Q. When I got back into the toy train hobby, I bought an MRC dual-contact transformer. Now I’m building a 13- by 16-foot layout with three track loops that are connected with switches. When I run several trains, things slow down. Should I consider buying […]
How do I store my toy trains? Q: How do I package and store my Lionel No. 2343 F3 diesel, which I run only once a year around the Christmas tree? Other than in a dry spot, what is the best way to store it? – Sean Mitchell, Corning, N.Y. A: Sean, you’re on the […]
