Found in a junker bin: 1 Large Scale locomotive, missing parts, and painted in one of those horrendous Christmas schemes. It looked like it could be an attractive piece, with repairs and a better paint job.
The loco, an 0-6-0 woodburner steamer, was missing all rods and pistons plus the electrical contacts. I dissassembled it. Boiler and cab were repainted. Rub N Buff was used to bring our brass highlights (actually, antqiue gold makes for a nice, polished brass look).
The only problem was ordering parts. While Lionel's technical folks were quick to send a catalog, the service department was lacking. I called to order parts and was told I'd have to do it by mail. The woman was rude - wouldn't even verify if parts were in stock - and to every question responded with the same phrase in a snippy voice. I decided to make the parts rather than put up with insulting behavior. A company who allows customer service representatives to treat customers rudely is showing contempt toward those who buy its products. (By the way, a good comparison is Bachman customer service - quick and pleasant!)
Thus, I am currently making piston rods of brass. All I need are small springs for electrical contacts to make it work. Keep watching, folk, because this locomotive will run again.
|
|