Hi,
I am intrigued by Gilbert S gauge up until the mid-1950s. I'm looking for a solid vintage set that represents all that is good about Gilbert American Flyer. Wouldn't have to be a boxed set but suggestions for making a set up. A certain steamer or diesel, certain operating cars, link versus knuckle couplers, etc.

I'm being vague just because I don't know alot about what specifically was quality and reliable from Flyer. I don't want to get an equivilent of Lionel's Scout engines! I've been perusing RFG's website of old catalogs and just about everything looks nice in the catalog but is reality a different matter?

Thanks for any help!

You don't mention whether or not you want just the best looking AF or do you want it to be the best running?

If you want best running, here are my suggestions: Steam engines tend to operate better than diesels. Knuckle couplers perform better than link. Although, a finely tuned diesel will run great and properly adjusted link couplers will also work great.

Engines: 313 K5, 326 Hudson, or 336 Northern. All have pul-mor tires, smoke and choo-choo. You can find versions of these engines that have a "super" motor that was larger than the standard AF steamer motor.

Cars: 973 Milk car is a fun operating car. You can't go wrong with any of 980 series boxcars, they are very colorful. Other items to look for would be a 977 action caboose that has a conductor that moves back and forth. There are numerous classic freight cars.

To check out pictures of what Gilbert actually produced, check out "The Gilbert Gallery"

Happy Hunting!

I'd add the 293 Pacific - balanced, simple, reliable, choo-choo, smoke, and pulmor. Some freight and Budd or streamlined passenger cars. The heavyweights are nice, but I prefer AM's version of those - - roll much easier.

The NYC Hudson sucked me into S gauge. I'd recommend starting with a 322 Hudson with the smoke and choo choo in the boiler. If you want to try link coupler cars, you're set. If you prefer knuckle coupler cars, its easy to convert the tender coupler. This way, you can find out if you like Flyer.

Thanks all. How do the earlier Northern's compare in quality/reliability?

quote:

Originally posted by Ironhorse:
How do the earlier Northern's compare in quality/reliability?

When in proper repair, they're all the same.

Ironhorse,

What part of the country are you located in? Maybe we can direct you to a store where you can see AF in person.

Richie