Lionel O Gauge Trains

Lionel O Gauge trains are hobby grade model trains.  They aren't toy trains.  Why?  80 years later they can still run like new.  They were built to last.   They were not advertised as toys, but as trains.  Often with Dad in the picture.   They appealed to both generations.

I like the postwar trains, 1945-1969, a few of the prewar scale engines and some Modern styles. Why, I like their heavyweight durability.  With basic skills and a few parts you can make them work like new.  

I like good condition, run-able trains.  I am not fond of the "Display Queens"  If I only want to display it, a picture is just as good to me.   Not-for-running to me is not added value.

My notes on the "Toy Train" hobby.

Some of my Train Videos

What is the value of a Lionel train?

Lionel Train Power usage

A quick outline of Lionel Conventional, TMCC, LEGACY, LionChief and Blue Tooth

Why you should always check a new-to-you engine, inside and out

Making the 783 Hudson run  The 1980's reproduction of the 1950/1964 773.

Pre-war 228 notes and repair.  One of my favorite engines.

Kit bashing the 6465-85 Lionel lines Tanker


E units function, maintenance and noise

Getting a Postwar Whistle to Sound Like New


Flying Shoe couplers from 1946

Tuning up a Missile Launcher 6630

Fixing a modern coupler that would not hold


O22 switch repair

Basic Engine cleaning and electrical repair

Reflectors for Interior LED lights


3512 Fire Car, repair and tuning

SD70MAC 18250 fixes


Buck Convertors to simplify Accessory Wiring

Tools for working on Trains

Icon for Base 3 System Utility software

3D Printer Projects for O Gauge Trains

Lionel O Scale Trains last update Oct 24 2024.