Copyright 2002 T. Sheil & A. Sheil All Rights Reserved
All Gauge Model Railroading Page
Basic Wooden Train Sets with Wood Track
What would the All Gauge Model Railroading Page be without covering classic
wooden trains? It so happens a nearby toy store had them. In
fact, the price on the Imaginarium set was significantly lower than imported
or "famous name" sets. We paid less than $20 for it. Likewise,
the Lionel Learning Curve locomotive was priced nicely. Both items
were a great value, for the Imaginarium set was every bit as nice as the
pricey imports. It came with track, train, a block building, wood trees
and animals, and wood railway signs. These kind of train have been
around for a very long time and they are still among the most popular toys
for small children. In fact, once we finished photographing and testing
this sample, it was passed on to a neighbor's three-year-old boy. (The
Learning Curve locomotive is still here, seeing as it's a favorite toy for
our cats.) Wood train sets are the sort of thing that last through
several children and several generations.
Lionel Learning Curve set on left, Imaginarium all-wood set on the right |
The Imaginarium set includes a locomotive, two cars, "scenery" and two "loads"
for the cars. Loads slip over pegs on top of cars. |
The entire track layout. Also pictures is the Lionel Learning Curve
diecast "Pennsylvania Torpedo" locomotive. |
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The locomotive that came with the set. |
Lionel Learning Curve locomotive works with most wood trains. |
Close-up of "Torpedo" locomotive. It has a working headlight and
three-position switch for Forward, Reverse and Stop. |
An adult has to install the single battery. The task involves unscrewing
the top from the chassis. You need a thin screwdriver, as the screw
is countersunk in a hole deep enough that kids can't unscrew it themselves
(unless they know how to use a narrow phillips-head screwdriver). This
kind of construction is a good way to keep children's' hands off batteries
and working parts while allowing them to use use safe battery-operated toys.. |
Another view of the open locomotive. Note rubber tires. |
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