My dad got an American Flyer train set when he was a kid. Not sure how much he used it, or anything. I came upon it quite a few years ago, sitting in a box in the basement, and its a mess. Most of the wheels have corroded (they look eaten) or are just missing. It has a couple broken trucks on the cars as well. Also, I'm not up on S scale (I'm into N), and I'm not even sure its S. It looks like it also runs on 3 rails. Could it be O? I'd like to get this restored for him, and back to working order. I don't think I want to have it repainted or anything like that, but I'd like to get the wheelsets replaced, and any other parts that replaced/repaired/tuned-up, as well as find some track and a transformer for him. Can anyone recommend any reputable repair shops? Once I am able to sneak it out my parent's house (I don't want him asking where I'm going with it, as I'd like it to be a surprise for next Christmas [sneak into the house, and put it around the tree when he is out]), I'll take a photo and put it up. Thanks for any help/tips/advice anyone can give me. I'm out of my element with these big ones.
Todd- Prior to World War II, there were indeed three rail, (O gauge), "American Flyer" trains. My dad had some in the 1920's as a youth. I don't have any suggestions, as to where one might get these repaired, or restored. But I'd imagine the cost will be significant. I wonder if you could contact someone via the Train Collectors Association? (Caveat emptor.) Believe they have a web site. Try a Google Search? Good luck! Boxcab E50
