All,

I have just inherited a Santa Fe diesel set from my recently deceased brother. I have two questions?

1. Where is the Reversing Gear control located. My engine runs only in F/N.

2. The D size battery compartment has a 9 Volt connector wired into it. When I just insert a 9V battery the horn sounds??

Any advice or help would be appreciated, thank you.

Hello. I haven't owned a train since I was a pre-teen and that was a N-Scale setup I had in my room. My father has a HUGE American flyer collection, but it's all the vintage stuff. Needless to say he and I are both newbies to the bluetooth, constant power train variety. I was hoping someone could answer a question I have about track layout size and the power requirement.

I recently purchased The Polar Express FlyerChief Ready to Run Set (SKU: 6-49632). Along with the ready to run set I purchased the AF FasTrack Outer Passing Loop Add-on (SKU: 6-49990) track pack. I have not set up my layout yet and I'm traveling for work for the next week so I'm unable to test my concern. I was curious if there was any need for me to add power injection on the furtherest parts of the track since I am expanding the layout from the original size. I have read online that the original 36w wall pack does well for the original sized track but adding an expansion pack increases the original 6' of track and could require additional power. The Lionel dealer I purchased the two sets from is currently moving their store location so I'm unable to stop by and ask them for help.

If additional power is needed, even if it would be helpful for smoother operation, can you please recommend the best way to accomplish the task? I wasn't sure if getting a more powerful Lionel wall pack would be enough or if adding a second FasTrack Power piece opposite of the first would be easier. But if I add another power track section is it as simple as branching off the orgianl wall pack? I've searched but I can't find a straight answer. I'm very handy so soldering and working with power cords is of no concern to me. 

Thank you for any information you can provide me.

I'm no expert but I if i can make a few suggestions to get you started with the process. You might want to pick up a copy of Greenbergs pocket price guide to Lionel trains 2025 edition.  You can get it in a lot of places. It will give you an Idea of about how much certain items are worth.
 I think that selling them to the right people is the key. Things like condition and rarity are always the big factor. Some places just buy collections bulk and are looking to get them as cheap as possible for resale. Collectors might pay a bit more per item but you will have to connect with them individually and it will take more time to sell them all.  Search the internet about how to go about selling Lionel collections and see recommendations on what to do by people who have done it.  Hope it turns out well for you.

I am a new member here.  I have what i would call a rather large lionel train collection I am trying to liquidate for my mother in law.   What is the best way to determine the pricing?  Is there a trusted site or publication for pricing?  I have seen things listed on ebay but you never know what they sell for.   

Any help would be greatly appreciated.   All the train items are located in Arkansas now. 

I recently acquired a 1953-1954 Scout train. I worked on the locomotive and got it running. Several of the detachable couplers on the cars are deteriorated. I was wondering if they make replacements?
I am new to the hobby and would appreciate any assistance that you can offer.
Thank you, Mark