American Flyer: Fun With Fiber Pins #4, Spectacular Two-Train Operation

[@MarkWick]

Thanks, that was fun, until right at the end. Oh, well, these trains are durable. I am amazed at what options Gilbert was able to offer 60 to 70 years ago.

[@HallofScienceWest]

I think no matter what you do there is always an element of error that creeps in with operating these trains, but trying your mitigate that is what keeps it interesting, at least to a point. In fact, my switch slipped out of two-train operation the other day and it took me by surprise when old 290 barreled right through the switch and derailed. The words “What the…” are still echoing in the Hall of Science (my garage) Lol! I think the realism Flyer put into their early trains is truly amazing and went beyond just selling toys. I’m finding there are limitations though and will explore those in upcoming videos. I’m glad you enjoyed the vid. RT

[@willamettevalleyAFtrains]

A lot of fun options there. I was wondering how long it would be before a timing error occured ha ha. Thanks for showing.

[@HallofScienceWest]

Yes, it was inevitable. I’m glad you watched until the end. I shouldn’t be laughing about it, but I was having too much fun to cuss. lol!

[@willamettevalleyAFtrains]

I used the left side of a 12B for power to the isolated track section on my prewar layout. The right side for the rest of the layout. That way I could have higher voltage so the stopped train and cars could pull away fast enough that the second train would not run into the rear before it cleared the isolated section.

[@HallofScienceWest]

That’s a great idea. 12B’s are neat transformers for that sort of thing. When my turntable layout was still running I used a rectifier from Radio Shack to power the DC motor on the turntable from one side of a 12B. 👍

[@romanpapierz5066]

the 12B transformer dispite it antique appearance, is cheap and powerfull ( 250 watts)

[@HallofScienceWest]

That was my first transformer for my Christmas train when I was a kid. I still have it and use it quite often. 12b’s are a hidden gem. Thanks!

[@SOU6900]

Out of curiosity did American Flyer have anything in S gauge that had the same popularity and collectability as Lionels O gauge 6464 boxcars?

[@HallofScienceWest]

Not too familiar with Lionel, but Flyer did make several different boxcars and stock cars with the colorful road names in the late 50’s. They are popular for collectors. There are some more rare than others making them extra desirable for collectors. These usually are associated with Flyers change from a 3 digit numbering system to a 5 digit numbering system in 1957. 5 digit cars found in 3 digit boxes seem to be worth more. Some cars were printed with 5 digits and then not produced after late 1957 so there are very few of them. I’m sure Lionel has similar nuances for their 6464 cars.