If I wanted to acquire my own collection of standard gauge railroad equipment, where would be the very best place to start?
2007-09-17 13:28:37 · 8 answers · asked by Mike M. 7 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Rail
...By this, I mean REAL equipment, no model stuff. I'm after rolling stock, tools, supplies and so on.
2007-09-17 13:43:35 · update #1
OK, time has been extended for this question. So I would appreciate it very much if everyone who answered this could elaborate. And if you could, please provide weblinks where possible. Thanks everyone. :)
2007-09-18 14:40:55 · update #2
antique stores are a good place. I have found tons of tools, lanterns, uniforms etc. may try ebay.
2007-09-22 18:16:45 · answer #1 · answered by turkey 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I always start with e-bay, you can find about anything on there! If you're wanting antiques, try some antique shops. If you're wanting more current stuff, contact a railroad company directly, I guess. Wouldn't be the cheapest route, I don't think, but they'd surely know where to get it all at! Good luck!
2007-09-19 09:32:51 · answer #2 · answered by baymast13 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All railroads have surplus property yards--ask around and see if they are near you. Or try a service facility in the area--trains are like cars--they do need service. It may or may NOT help. Sometimes making frequent visits will allow you to become friendly with the people. Of course security has been an issue, lately
2007-09-17 21:41:19 · answer #3 · answered by fire_inur_eyes 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Mike,
It depends on what you're after. Do you have anything in mind? If I knew what I was after I would begin by visiting or contacting various railroad museums/tourist lines and ask if they have anything extra they might be interested in selling me. You might also want to contact various railroads from Class Is to shortlines.
Lastly, check Rail Merchants International, they have all kinds of goodies for sale (their website is listed below).
2007-09-17 20:36:37 · answer #4 · answered by Alco83 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Mike, I think I'd start south of the border. There's still vintage equipment in use and probably getting tired.
But, I can tell you who to contact. I don't have the address, but, if you track down the folks who maintain and run the SP #4449, in particular Mr. Doyle McCormick (I think I spelled the last name wrong). It is his show, and I know he owns a couple other older diesel electrics, including a couple F units, beautifully restored.
But, I think I'd take a couple of partners on board and incorporate. You may be able to secure grants from the US Historical Society for monies for restoration. To upgrade an old passenger coach, for example, to meet current specs for movement on main track, you're gonna need major cash.
2007-09-17 22:47:40 · answer #5 · answered by Samurai Hoghead 7 · 1⤊ 2⤋
If you were in the UK you would need a small fortune. On an antiques programme on TV just this past weekend a nameplate from a steam loco was valued at £15,000 ($30,000)!
2007-09-18 05:57:22 · answer #6 · answered by rdenig_male 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they're are train shops that are set up for train enthusiasts ,
Cherry Creek hobbies 5851 Road 35 Torrington, Wy. 82240 Phone (307) 532-4253
2007-09-17 20:38:55 · answer #7 · answered by fuzzykitty 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
You might want to sign on to http://www.trains.com and post this question on their forums. Maybe someone there can help you more.
2007-09-24 14:24:23 · answer #8 · answered by Electro-Fogey 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋