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All Aboard Sets Digest 450 to 301

Message 450

re: Snow Panel Yellowing

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: June 29, 2003
Time: 12:30 PM
Comments

My panels were also very dirty, but the washing did not really remove totally the yellow tint. I am not sure if the color is due to staining from being so dirty, or just normal discoloration due to age. Perhaps long term exposure to light is an issue... But, the ones on eBay do not look dirty, but seem to have the yellow tint.

Message 449

Snow Panel Yellowing

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.178.185
Date: June 28, 2003
Time: 12:26 PM
Comments

Several years ago I purchased a set of snow panels that had damaged track and were almost brown from dirt. The track was removed and them I washed the panels in the sink using cool water and "Joy" dish detergent, padded them off with a towel, and used a blow dryer to finish them off. Some of the sparkle came off in the process but the panels were nice and white again. I chose not to try and replace the lost sparkle material although many of the craft stores have loose glitter that you could probably just sprinkle over the panels for a nice effect.

Message 448

Winter set on eBay good example of yellowing...

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: June 27, 2003
Time: 12:20 PM
Comments

I have seen this a quite a bit. It seems that the glue used to attach the sparkles, mica chips, to the panels has yellowed with age. Not real attractive! You can see in the auction photos, where there are no sparkles, the snow is still white. I will get the photos from this auction on the site eventually. For now, you can see the auction at the link below...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3136247314&category=480

Chuck

Message 447

Web Site Decision, the site stays up but...

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: June 27, 2003
Time: 09:54 AM
Comments

Ok, I have decided to leave the All Aboard site as is, and not move it back to Yahoo. To accomplish this, I now have it hosted on a free site that does have banners and popups. Something had to give, and this seems like the least of all evils. Thanks for your support. Chuck...

Message 446

re : Winter Wonderland set on Ebay

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: June 23, 2003
Time: 07:32 PM
Comments

Nice winter set. Another one was on eBay this last week, in original box and all. It closed at $800 or so, but reserve was not met. Someone on the S-List chat Sunday said the reserve was $2000. Pricey!

Message 445

re: K-Line "S" Boxcars

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: June 23, 2003
Time: 07:30 PM
Comments

Karl, good to hear from you! I would really like to see one of the K-Line boxcars. I suppose that probably will not happen until October York though. Not likely to find one way done here in Florida.

Chuck

Message 444

Winter Wonderland set on Ebay

From: Karl
Remote Name: 64.12.96.204
Date: June 22, 2003
Time: 11:33 PM
Comments

OK.Heres's one for you. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3136247314&category=480

It looks almost complete... Karl

Message 443

K-Line "S" Boxcars

From: Karl
Remote Name: 205.188.209.71
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:21 AM
Comments

Hi Group I just picked up a couple of the K-Line Boxcars at my local Hobby Shop this evening. I'm not familiar with the old Marx tooling but the boxcar shells use for the new S-gauge line do have a distinct O-27 look.... Gilbert boxcars are a scale 40ft in length. K-Line come in slightly over 43ft long. Width is 9.2ft for Gilbert, 10.6ft for K-Line and proportionally higher. The finish, paint and lettering is crisp, very well done. ...(one odd aspect here is very large reporting marks lettering where the length is listed as 36 ft?) Body, doors, door slides, and frame are all plastic with cast in detail (ladders, brake wheel, grabs. There is cast in brake detail on the underframe. The really great news, as previously reported are the neatly detailed diecast sprung trucks and couplers. These should give Flyonel something to seriously envy. I haven't had a chance to try them on a layout but they roll extremely smooth and easy. . I didn't pick up any of the Tank cars yet (they have this really chessy looking ladder). Scalers probably won't be happy with these cars as kitbash candidates because of the size. ...but for the price as toy trains these will be GREAT for the kid in us all to play with, while we save our Vintage Gilbert, and beautifully detailed S-Helper for more serious model railroading sessions... Thumbs up to K-Lines first S-Gauge effort.... Karl Chicago

Message 442

Moving the club site

From: John deT
Remote Name: 67.30.205.197
Date: June 11, 2003
Time: 08:49 PM
Comments

Chuck: The site here is great (even if we don't post comments often) -- on the other hand, your catalog pages are SUPER great, and if you need the space go for it. It did seem that the yahoo site was more easily found by new All Aboard collectors, but maybe that's just an impression. John

Message 441

Moving Club Site

From: JudgeatKCK
Remote Name: 66.140.92.229
Date: June 10, 2003
Time: 05:25 PM
Comments

Chuck, I don't see any problem in moving All Aboard Club back to Yahoo. I certainly enjoy the new catalogs you have posted. They have proved useful in researching particular items and accessories.

Message 440

gilbert accessories for slotcars or trains

From: judgeatkck
Remote Name: 66.140.93.31
Date: May 19, 2003
Time: 10:07 PM
Comments

I just purchased an American Flyer slot car/train accessory the keg loader. It is complete except for the small barrels. Does anyone know if replicas are made and what the approximate value of this accessory is. Thanks Judgeatkck

Message 439

American Flyer Collection Posted

From: greg@nickstrains.com
Remote Name: 68.109.72.58
Date: May 18, 2003
Time: 08:38 PM
Comments

I've listed some nice Flyer items on my site, www.NicksTrains.com. Click on American Flyer Collection under Newly Listed Items. In particular are the:

21139 UP Northern Exc+ 24016 Katy Boxcar LN/OB 21920 1958 PAs Exc- 21918 Baldwins Exc w/ screw crack 24800 series 1963 MP passenger cars Exc 24413 ART Reefer LN/OB and more with more to be added within the next few weeks.

I should mention also that I have not had a chance to really clean these items so they may look better with a little effort.

So, take a look at the site and let me know if you have any interest. Some of the photos are very large so it may take a minute or two to load them but the photos will give you a good sense of condition. You may also need to use your horizontal and vertical scroll bars to view the item once the photo has loaded (it'll make sense once you're there).

Thanks much! Happy railroading!

Greg Nicholas www.NicksTrains.com TCA, TTOS, LCCA 949-305-TRAIN (8724)

Message 438

800 Set / Is anyone out there?

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: May 04, 2003
Time: 09:32 AM
Comments

Just listed today, a set of 8 panels on eBay. 4 curves, 2 straights, 2 switches.

AMERICAN FLYER #1 PIKEMASTER LAYOUT SECTIONS Item # 3129960895

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3129960895&category=480

PS: Is anyone out there and actually visiting the All Aboard site?

Chuck

Message 437

All Aboard Accessory Lot

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: April 27, 2003
Time: 09:18 PM
Comments

Sure accessories, for those in need...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3129161759

As always, Let the Buyer beware!

Chuck

Message 436

Cross over panel - looks new in box!

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: April 07, 2003
Time: 09:04 PM
Comments

On eBay, what appears to be a crossover panel, new in the box. A bit rare!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3125178342

As always, Cavet Emptor

Chuck

Message 435

panel layout for train show

From: JudgeatKCK
Remote Name: 66.140.92.242
Date: April 06, 2003
Time: 05:31 PM
Comments

I am looking for suggestions for displaying an all aboard panel layout at a train show here in Kansas City the first weekend in May. The Kansas City S-Gaugers will also be setting up our 40 foot long module layout. I have all of the panels and will have 3 four by 8 tables with which to work. Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Message 434

Re: 12 Panel box

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.176.91
Date: March 22, 2003
Time: 01:32 AM
Comments

In my 12 panel set is a box stamped with black letters B4N877, Train Set #3. It contains the locomotive, cars, and transformer. There is a second box stamped with green letters 20813 Train Set #3 That contains all the scenery items. Both boxes are approx 17 x 17 x 5. The box stamped B4N877 opens at the center while the 20813 box opens at the end.

Message 433

12 Panel box

From: Stan9432 / posted from old club
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: March 15, 2003
Time: 08:35 AM
Comments

can anyone tell me if the 12 set pannel box had a smaller box inside of it tha was made by eastern corrugated container corp of clifton new jersey and had train set # 3 b 4n877 in it . The lettering on the box is blue please let me know i have this box and would like to know what went in it thanks Stanley Sobieski americanflyer@cox.net

Message 432

Crossover panel on eBay, if you need one...

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: March 14, 2003
Time: 12:36 PM
Comments

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3121193077

As always, cavet emptor!

Chuck

Message 431

eBay Auction - you wouldn't find this one!

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.185.192
Date: March 14, 2003
Time: 12:24 PM
Comments

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3120966667

Really hidden. 600 panels and more....

Enjoy....

Message 430

Panels sold at Cal Stewart

From: Ed Eckert
Remote Name: 207.214.211.248
Date: March 05, 2003
Time: 07:57 PM
Comments

I was at the Cal Stewart (TCA) meet in Santa Clara, Ca. A gentleman had 14 new/like new panels and 8 boxes. One rh switch boxed, two lh switches boxed, one crossover boxed, one curve boxed, one straight boxed, one crossover box with six straight panels incomplete. One box had 4 cream colonial houses in it and one regular colonial house, all in original wrapping. He was asking $700.00 and got $500.00 while I was standing there. Also a 20811 set without all of the pieces, but with the rolling stock brought $50.00. No other All Aboard stuff was there.

Message 429

Track for the sets

From: Philip.Howe2@verizon.net
Remote Name: 141.156.187.249
Date: February 28, 2003
Time: 06:03 PM
Comments

If you are considering track to replace the pikemaster on some or all of your panels, you might look at the American Models Universal Track flexible sections, or the S Helper flexible track. The newest track is from American Classics in California. They all look great, and have solid rails. They are easier to bend than the Gargraves track, probably, and look as good.

To attach them, you could try using the plastic ties from a hardware store which are used to bind bundles. Classic Toy Trains had an article last year on one layout built with O gauge track on which the owner secured the track to the table by using those plastic ties. Using them would avoid the need to drill into the panels, and if you wanted to move the track later, you could snip the plastic tie.

As I was considering this question, I thought that if the panels did not already have the raised trackbed, and were 20 or 21 inches square, the S Helper track with the roadbed would look very good on the panel. If Gilbert made the panels with a trough, the S Helper track would slip nicely into a wider panel with the trough. We can always dream of "what if".

These are my ideas. Track for operating accessories can be built with these modern track sections, or the manufacturers may make them now.

Message 428

Re: Why not flyer track

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 27, 2003
Time: 05:13 PM
Comments

I tried placing flyer curved track on the curve panels and you would have to bend the connecting pins so much that it would not hold a loco on the curves. I have not tried bending the track itself and probably will not. I am going to simply remove a section of pikemaster from a straight section so as to get it to lay in the accessory and then replace the track. Only problem I see with that is I will have to drill a hole in the accessory so I can replace the rivets. Dont really want to do that either..Suggestions? Thanks to all,John.

Message 427

Re; Why Not Flyer Track

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: February 26, 2003
Time: 11:25 PM
Comments

Standard curve track is 21 inch radius, and will not fit on the panels. Pikemaster track was approx 16 inch radius. I don't know if it would be possible to rebend standard track to fit; I have not tried. You could certainly use standard straight track though.

Message 426

re: New layout Photos

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 26, 2003
Time: 11:47 AM
Comments

GREAT Photos Chuck, what took you so long? What else have you got to do? Why not go a step further and just lay down flyer track with roadbed on the panels? I know you like cargraves but if I am going to remove all the pikemaster why not just replace with all the flyer track I have along with the switches? Then I can run all the locos I have. I am interested in how well the cattle yard works with cargraves tho. Your thoughts---and keep up the excellent site,John.

to #450

Message 450

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Message 428

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Message 426

Message 425

New Layout Photos are Posted!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: February 26, 2003
Time: 09:43 AM
Comments

Ok, I was in a hurry, but there are 8 photos of my new under construction layout posted. Click on Photos (the camera icon) to the left, then select "Myflyertrains", and you will see them. Yes, I know these will be considered by some to be really "revolutionary"!

Enjoy...Chuck

Message 424

re: Panel accessories and misc

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: February 26, 2003
Time: 12:11 AM
Comments

Why not put the accessories directly onto real panels. Thats what I have done. I see I really need to get the pictures up, though I am not done wiring the layout. My layout has A Mystic station, a 593 switch tower, a Plasticville factory, a log unloader, a barrel loader, a 752a coaler, a 785 coaler, a cattle pen, a Mysto Magic factory, a tool shed, a saw mill, a Gabe, a 772 bubbling tower, four Flyer switches, a whistling billboard, an Erector Bridge and a homemade Erector / Gulf Tanker fueling station! Whew, it would have been easier to take the pictures. I will get them up before the end of the week! The whole thing is on 14 panels, and has an extra track where no track has gone before. Stay tuned!

Message 423

Panel accessories and misc

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 24, 2003
Time: 05:11 PM
Comments

Hi All, seems like the group is comming alive,GREAT! Hurry up with those photos Chuck, I would like to see what you have done. I have been using some woodland scenics trees on my 8 panels and wife says it looks much better than what comes with the panels. I have to agree but that is only my opinion. Any comments on my idea to use foam board with flyer track on a makeshift straight panel for flyer accessories? Thanks and Hi again to all,John.

Message 422

re: winter switch panel for $175?

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.178.178
Date: February 23, 2003
Time: 02:24 PM
Comments

Hi Chuck! Yes, things here are fine...a little cold and snowy today however. Maybe I got a deal on the snow panel but personally I just can't see $175.00 for one. The guy I bought it from was out in Los Angeles. Around Denver you just don't see very many of them. Collecting All Aboard is more of a nostalgic thing with me than anything else because I had them as a kid. I am curious, what do panels sell for in a big show like York?

Message 421

all aboard panel accessories

From: judgeatkck
Remote Name: 66.140.93.197
Date: February 23, 2003
Time: 12:30 PM
Comments

Glad to see all the posts recently about using accessories with all aboard panels. You can definitely tell it's winter and everyone is inside working on train layouts. I picked up a large sack of the small trees for the all aboard layouts several weeks ago. If anyone needs these to complete their layouts let me know. I can be reached at whutton@prodigy.net.

Message 420

re: winter switch panel for $175?

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: February 23, 2003
Time: 10:16 AM
Comments

Brad, where do you keep coming up with all those All Aboard bargains. I spend thousands traveling to York, and you just pick up panels in hobby shops out west! :-)

It is nice to see people posting. It has been a long dry spell. I will be putting up pictures of my new non-standard All Aboard layout soon. It contains most major Flyer accessories, uses 720a switches, and has an extra piece of track down the center. (I said it was non standard, but I like it a lot)

Hope you are well Brad!

Later...Chuck

Message 419

winter switch panel for $175?

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.176.145
Date: February 23, 2003
Time: 01:28 AM
Comments

$175.00 for a snow switch panel seems pretty steep. I purchased one brand new in the box a little over a year ago from a guy in the TCA for just about a third of that price.

Message 418

All aboard sets etc.

From: Ed Eckert
Remote Name: 207.214.211.66
Date: February 22, 2003
Time: 01:49 PM
Comments

Hi:

I just received your link from a fellow AF club member so I could see the K-Line items in S. To my surprise her is the All Aboard club. My friend knows of my interests in these but never thought to say anything. I have around a 100 panels and need one RH Winter switch panel. I have at 20 winter panels, some of which I am going to sell, including 1 crossover panel. If you check the Bubeck/Garrigues book, you will see that winter set is at $800.00 plus 30% boxed ($1040.00). So paying $175.00 for a winter switch panel is reasonable. Currently I have the 6 panel Winter set up in the center of my S layout for the last two years.

Message 417

Re; further thoughts on accessories

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 20, 2003
Time: 05:06 PM
Comments

Many thanks to all who have supplied excellent ideas. I may try using woodland scenics foam board cut to 17x17x1&1/4" to get the track level with the AA panels and place flyer track on it as a straight panel. Then use the adapter pins available so I can connect regular flyer track to the pikemaster. Then use the accessory on this panel as all of them require a straight section of AF track. Comments? John.

Message 416

Further thoughts on accessories with track channels

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 67.30.221.27
Date: February 19, 2003
Time: 08:48 PM
Comments

Here are a couple of other ways that might work with accessories like the Guilford Station and cattle loader: One way would still require removing the track from a junker panel, but using a rotary sander attachment for an electric drill, sand off about a quarter inch (whatever the difference between old S flyer and pikemaster of the base edges and the posts underneath the panel. Put the accessory on the panel, bracking it with modeling clay, etc, then used old Flyer S-track or pikemaster elevated to the proper level for the accessory. B. Another technique would preserve the panel (but still remove the track). To do this put 1/4" plywood under all the non-accessory panels. If you wanted flexibility, cut as many 17x17x1/4 inch pieces of plywood as you have non-accessory panels. This would elevate all the panels, except the ones on which you want to place the accessories. As before, use old flyer track, or elevate pikemaster on the accessory panel.

Message 415

Flyer accessories with panels.

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 67.30.220.239
Date: February 19, 2003
Time: 05:29 PM
Comments

What to do about accessories in which the track runs through the accessory and which have built in track trips is a good question. Hopefully someone has figured a way. Here are a couple of ideas I've thought about but haven't tried. One is to buy a junker panel with rusty track, remove the track, and put the accessory under new track, either pikemaster raised up or using original size ttrack (for the latter there track pins that mate the two --basically a old style track pin curved over on itself half way to fit into the pikemaster. The accessory might have to be propped on the panel to keep it level, and there would still be a hump where the track was raised -- might cause cars to uncouple, especially link couplers. Another alternative would be to make your own 17"x17" panel of some lightweight material and run pikemaster track across it, sink the accessory a bit so the track would be level. One drastic solution I saw once was to saw off the track portion of the Guilford station (this guy did it for 0), but changing a panel is a lot cheaper.

Message 414

Lionel/American Flyer 2003 catalog

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 67.30.220.239
Date: February 19, 2003
Time: 05:17 PM
Comments

Lionel has just posted its 2003 catalog online. Several pages of S, including a reissue of Moe and Joe lumber unloading car (they're also going to make it in O) and some old AF accessories at: http://www.lionel.com/Products/Catalogs/cat-2003-c-1/pgs-90-91.htm

by the way, K-line now has pictures of their new S gauge, but they seem to be artists conceptions, and can't tell much about relative size.

Message 413

re: flyer accessories with panels

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 19, 2003
Time: 05:10 PM
Comments

I was mainly interested in the accessories that require a section of track to fit into a "channel" which is part of the accessory itself. Such as the cattle loader,baggage loader and guilford stations. So the accessory is "attached " to the track itself. Thanks to all for their help, now to quiet down the "noise",John.

Message 412

Flyer accessories with panels

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.177.196
Date: February 19, 2003
Time: 01:45 AM
Comments

John....I just set the accessories along the sides of the panels. My reproduction "Gabe" sits on a curve where the mountain should be. The talking station along a straight panel. Actually if you wanted to, you could insulate one straight panel and attach the white wire from the station so it would actually stop and start your train. The operating water tank will fit on a curve or just place it along a straight panel. Same with the whistle and horn billboards. Lionel makes an infrared detector that probably could be used to activate some of the signal or crossing accessories...bell danger signal etc. There is no right or wrong way, just do it how you like it.

Message 411

Flyer accessories with panels

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 18, 2003
Time: 05:02 PM
Comments

Thanks for all the great info. Have my first set of panels up and trains running with switches working properly too. What is the best way, if any, to use flyer accessories that need to be attached to flyer track such as the cattle loader and guilford station to name a few? Thanks again for the great help,John.

Message 410

RE: Wire under switch panels

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.176.42
Date: February 18, 2003
Time: 03:29 AM
Comments

John...Every scenic panel was prewired at the factory, the idea being that all you had to do was install the track pins and spring clips and the scenery and it was ready to run. The wiring for a switch panel is as follows: One yellow wire between eyelets on straight rail of switch...one yellow wire from eyelet at point end of switch to eyelet at curved end of switch. Yellow wire from switch motor also connects at eyelet at point end of switch. Black wire from control box to outside rail joiner terminal (sticks down underneath the panel). Red wire from control box to outside terminal on switch motor. Green wire on control box to inside terminal on switch motor. Pushing the red button should line the switch for the curve, green button for the straight. If it works just the opposite swap the red and green wires. To make the system work properly you have to install all the spring clips that hold the panels together. This makes the fixed voltage connection from the transformer.

Message 409

Re: Wire under switch panels

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 17, 2003
Time: 05:34 PM
Comments

Thanks for the reply Brad. Makes sense now. How are the switches to be wired? John.

Message 408

Wire under AA panels

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 165.121.176.79
Date: February 17, 2003
Time: 03:16 PM
Comments

The yellow wire that runs underneath the panels conducts the 15v. accessory voltage to run the switch motors and the whistle on the whistle panel. The spring clips that install in the eyelets connect the wire from one panel to another as well as holding the panels together.

Message 407

Track trips for AA panels

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 17, 2003
Time: 11:47 AM
Comments

Thanks for the comments on the trips. I will contact a few dealers and see what they have. I know I have seen infra-red detectors for this purpose in CTT mag. But I have another question. Why is there a wire soldered to the underside of each panel from one end of the track to the other? The wire only seems to go to an eylet in the track ties. Purpose? Thanks for any replys,John.

Message 406

RE: Operating Accessories track trips

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 67.30.221.27
Date: February 15, 2003
Time: 08:36 PM
Comments

RE: Feb 6 query on track trips for All Aboard panels for operating accessories. A couple of years ago Hobby Surplus Sales still had a blinker track trip that fit between the rails of Pikemaster track -- it only had a part number XA16593(?), so orinally may have had a cover, but it does work on AA Panels, though couple weights sometimes bent the springs. For operating crossing gates, etc., Thomas B. Barker describes how to make a track trip using an insulated rail section (could insulate one rail on a whole panel, and not have to alter it or take it apart) in "Greenberg"s American Flyer S Gauge Operating and Repair Manual, second edition, pp. 55-56. Sounds pretty simple to build, but he gives Radio Shack part numbers which may have changed in the last 20 years. Track trips for operating cars can be made out of sheet brass or tinplate, and clip under the pikemaster track -- I gather Gilbert made these originally, but I don't recall seeing any at shows, etc.

Message 405

re:K-Line s gauge

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 14, 2003
Time: 12:55 PM
Comments

Ditto on the penn salt! Can these be run on panels, does not say pikemaster trucks so I think not. Even so, the price is sure right!!!Just curious,John.

Message 404

re: K-line s gauge box cars & tank cars

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: February 13, 2003
Time: 07:23 PM
Comments

Yes, this is interesting. Finally a Penn Sault tanker I can afford to own. The web site says that the actual calaog should be up in several days. I am looking forward to seeing some pictures. I understand Marx 3/16 dies were used...

Message 403

K-line s gauge box cars & tank cars

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 67.30.220.115
Date: February 12, 2003
Time: 06:24 PM
Comments

K-line's 2003 catalog apparently will have s gauge box cars listing at $20.00. No pictures yet, but a list at http://www.k-linetrains.com/2003fe_preview.htm

Does anyone know if they're from new dies, or from old Marx??

Message 402

New Photo Uploaded

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: February 09, 2003
Time: 11:40 AM
Comments

Carl Anererson / Carl552 has submitted a new photo of a winter layout. Click on the camera icon / Photos at the left to see this picture.

Thanks for the picture Carl!

Chuck

Message 401

Operating Accessories

From: Hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 06, 2003
Time: 05:21 PM
Comments

Sorry, I have another question. How does one activate flyer accessories such as crossing signals that require track trips on the all aboard panels? Thanks,John.

Message 400

Layout Questions

From: Hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: February 05, 2003
Time: 03:56 PM
Comments

Hi all, If you wanted to have two layouts in the same room about 10x10, how would you do it? I would like to make a panel layout and still keep my traditional flyer layout with flyer track elevated off the floor. I could put a piece of plywood on the floor about 4x8 and put the panels on that. Only problems with that is the framing for my existing table, and the lighting for a floor layout. I cannot run anything around the walls either. Probably easier to set up another layout in my limited basement space eh? Any Ideas? Thanks,John.

Message 399

X-Over Panels for sale?

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: January 29, 2003
Time: 11:28 AM
Comments

Hi all. Anyone have cross over panels they would be willing to part with? I know they are hard to find but if anyone has one it would save me a lot of headaches. Let me know,thanks,John.

Message 398

Track /panel picture

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: January 28, 2003
Time: 05:20 PM
Comments

Chuck, how about posting a picture here of a panel showing how the track looks on a panel? Just an idea. Thanks,John

Message 397

re: Flyer track on panels

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: January 28, 2003
Time: 04:47 PM
Comments

Well, taking the track off the panels is not tricky. You just don't want the eyelet to spin while you are removing it, or it will burn a larger hole through the plastic. I grind off with a cone shaped dremil stone. Works Great. Regarding rebending flyer track. It that the look / type of track you want? My new layout has standard Flyer switches with Gargraves track, and I am quite happy with this. The wider spaced tie look of real Flyer trains is not the look I want on All Aboard Panels anyway. Others, may want it, however...

Message 396

re: Flyer track on panels

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.223.35
Date: January 24, 2003
Time: 03:44 PM
Comments

I wonder if all that would be worth it. One would have to take off the pikemaster from the panels which I understand is tricky. Yes/No? Your thoughts... Would re-bending flyer track for these panels be worth it?

Message 395

re: Flyer track on panels

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: January 23, 2003
Time: 09:04 AM
Comments

A recent discussion on the s-list has centered on rebending original Flyer track to wider radius. Makes me wonder if the track could be rebent to Pikemaster radius. They take the track apart, rebend the rails, and the reassemble it. They build a jig out of wood to bend to the correct radius. Looks like it would be worth a try perhaps...

Message 394

Flyer track on panels

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 205.188.208.5
Date: January 19, 2003
Time: 02:04 PM
Comments

I found out that you cannot use flyer track on these panels.Thats ok, I will keep my other layout anyway. I will set up another layout using the panels with pikemaster. Thanks to you and this site and other members, I have found out more than I needed to know. Chuck Harrington was especially helpfull. Hope othere will start posting more,John.

Message 393

re: New to All Aboard - standard flyer track

From: chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: January 19, 2003
Time: 12:46 PM
Comments

John, All Aboard panels use Pikemaster track, which is something like 16 inch turning radius, while standard AF track is like 21 inch radius. I have heard of tools available to bend standard Flyer track to wider radius, but not more narrow. I am not sure that it is possible. I used Gargraves Tinplate flex track, and bent to All Aboard / Pikemaster radius....Welcome to the club! Chuck....

Message 392

Panel Gilbert never made

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.6.35
Date: January 17, 2003
Time: 01:14 PM
Comments

Hey JFred, did you ever make your three way panel? Any problems? Looks like I will try to get the cheaper panels and convert them to the switches and crossovers I need. Thanks,John

Message 391

All aboard panels and accessories

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.6.35
Date: January 15, 2003
Time: 01:19 PM
Comments

Hi all, does anyone have all aboard panels and/or accessories for sale? What is reasonable for a panel with and without accessories? Thanks in advance for any help you can give me,John B.

Message 390

All aboard panels and accessories

From: hcopter52/John
Remote Name: 198.208.6.35
Date: January 15, 2003
Time: 12:19 PM
Comments

Hi all, does anyone have panels and accessories for sale? What is reasonable for a panel with and without accessories such as trees,signs,etc. How readily available are the panels and accessories? Thanks in advance for any help,John B.

Message 389

All Aboard panels and accessories

From: Phil Howe
Remote Name: 68.72.165.25
Date: January 11, 2003
Time: 10:05 AM
Comments

After Bill Hutton helped me at the Fall S Fest get a better understanding of the All Aboard Sets, I stumbled upon a man who had 22 panels, four houses, 16 street lights, 15 telephone poles, 30+ trees, four bridges, stop signs, and 8 mountains and tunnels, with extra track and switches. I bought them and cleaned them. Among the 22 panels, there were 6 straights, 4 switches, and the remainder curved. One panel is broken in half, and I must figure out a way to restore the other half and perhaps convert it to a snow panel straight. I have four curved snow panels I got at the S Fest. The panels are out there and available, if you are lucky and persistent in finding them. They make nice layouts, and set up very quickly. I intend to use some for a traction layout in S gauge. It is really amazing how the designers got the road to link up, and make the detailed fields and ponds. Thanks to Bill Hutton I have a new aspect of S gauge to enjoy.

Phil Howe - pshowe@ameritech.net

Message 388

snow panels

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 209.244.77.104
Date: January 06, 2003
Time: 02:31 AM
Comments

Bill...Sent you 4 pictures by email. The house roofs are the same glitter material as was sprayed on the panels. Almost looks like a dusting of flat white paint with the glitter mixed in. The Glitterex brand that Chuck talks about in an earlier posting would be fairly close to the original. I need to paint a set of roofs and two mountains and a tunnel. My current project is to apply a correct whistle motor from a billboard whistle and a whistle button to a straight snow panel for a home made snow whistle panel.

Message 387

snow panels

From: judgeatkck
Remote Name: 66.140.94.152
Date: January 05, 2003
Time: 09:14 PM
Comments

Brad, Appreciate your information. If you could either post pictures on website or forward by e-mail they would be much appreciated. I purchased 6 snow panels without accessories other than one mountain piece for 50.00 from a long time flyer collector who is selling off his collection other than personal layout items.He didn't collect panels but did have a 600 Pioneer set and the 6 snow panels without boxes or accessories. Looking forward to hearing from you. My e-mail address is whutton@prodigy.net Thanks, Bill Hutton

Message 386

snow panel prices

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 209.245.9.54
Date: January 05, 2003
Time: 02:15 PM
Comments

A little over a year ago I purchased a new in the box snow switch panel for $65.00. That was from a private collector. From the same guy I also purchased a full snow panel set for $800. Previous to that I purchased 6 snow panels that needed a little work from Port Lines for 135.00. The boxed set has all the correct snow covered scenery items except for the small roof on the colonial house. I would be willing to provide some pictures if you are interested.....Brad....belairchevy@earthlink.net

Message 385

snow panels

From: judgeatkck
Remote Name: 66.140.92.231
Date: January 04, 2003
Time: 04:56 PM
Comments

Following the recent discussion about snow panels I can confirm that on a set I purchased from original owner that there is a round unpainted spot where the transformer sits on one of the curve panels. I purchased 6 panels(2 straights and 4 curves with the base for the overpass. Has anyone posted pictures of the houses, as I have several I would like to experiment on by adding snow. Also, what is the going price for the snow panels. None of the price guides provide much help. Happy New Year! Bill Hutton

Message 384

re: Snow Set on eBay

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 209.245.1.46
Date: December 21, 2002
Time: 02:01 AM
Comments

I have one curve panel in each of my snow sets that has the green circle and the power wires attached.

Message 383

re: Snow Set on eBay

From: Carl552
Remote Name: 192.35.232.241
Date: December 20, 2002
Time: 10:02 AM
Comments

The Winterland set I have has an area without the snow. I assumed it was were the transformer went. Carl

Message 382

re: Snow Set on eBay

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: December 20, 2002
Time: 09:17 AM
Comments

In the previously mentioned auction on eBay, one of the corner panels has in its corner a round green circle where there was no paint. It is the same panel where the wiring for track power comes out. I assumed that on the old panels that I bought, that someone has poured some solvent in that area. But after seeing them on eBay that way, makes me wonder if that was deliberate for some reason. Does anyone else have a snow set with this green circle showing?

Message 381

Mica Flakes

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: December 20, 2002
Time: 09:13 AM
Comments

I found the mica flakes auctions on eBay. Thanks for the tip. It seems this stuff was actually sold back in the 20th century as a Christmas Snow decoration. Sometimes we overlook the obvious!

Message 380

All Aboard set for sale

From: ruth.leahy@colorado.edu
Remote Name: 161.97.80.68
Date: December 18, 2002
Time: 12:17 PM
Comments

I have an All Aboard set (no boxes) with the 4 curved sections along with 2 straight plus the two switches (right & left hand). Also included are the houses, signs, fences, street lights, trees, etc. The train & transformer do not go with the set. Interested? Email with an offer.

Mike Leahy (Boulder, CO.)

Message 379

Snow Set on eBay

From: Carl552
Remote Name: 66.69.236.63
Date: December 18, 2002
Time: 12:36 AM
Comments

I looked at the pictures for the winter panels for how the accessories were painted with snow. The snow on the house rooses looks straight forward. I was surprized that there was no snow on the bridge. Several small trees and one large tree came with the winter set I bought and there was very little snow on them. I think that the snow is very eazily knocked off the trees. The large tree is very flexible so the paint will also fall off it. I also have a RR crossing that has no snow. Did any of the other accessories have snow on them? Carl

Message 378

Mica Snow on Ebay

From: Carl552
Remote Name: 66.69.236.63
Date: December 18, 2002
Time: 12:27 AM
Comments

I did a search on eBay for mica snow and found several for sale at reasonable prices.

Message 377

Mica snow for winter panels

From: Rich
Remote Name: 24.54.13.231
Date: December 16, 2002
Time: 12:35 PM
Comments

I have found old boxes of Christmas mica snow at flea markets. You can find it at antique shows but it costs more.

Message 376

Complete 1951 Gilbert Catalog!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: December 15, 2002
Time: 10:30 AM
Comments

Just uploaded the complete 1951 Gilbert Catalog in high Resolution! A little before All Aboard Sets, but other years of catalogs will follow. Just go to http://www.myflyertrains.org

Enjoy...Chuck

Message 375

Snow Set on eBay!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: December 12, 2002
Time: 08:27 AM
Comments

There is a snow / winter panel set on eBay that looks to be in pretty good shape...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1925485694

Enjoy....Chuck

Message 374

The Big One! Westerner 1200 set on eBay!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: December 06, 2002
Time: 12:26 AM
Comments

The 12 panel set, complete with switches and crossover!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1923944164

As always, Cavet Emptor! Chuck

Message 373

re: Winter Wonderland Set

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 67.8.236.70
Date: December 05, 2002
Time: 12:10 AM
Comments

Congrats on getting a snow set. I would also like to see those close-up pictures of the winter homes. I would be happy to post such photos on the web site, if they were available. There were some photos around a while back showing the snow mountains which I could use as well. We are in the process of setting up snow panels under the Christmas tree, which has been quite an effort in that I am two straight panels short, and my wife is using her craft skills to reproduce them. They are coming along well, and I think by next year, our Christmas tree layout will be 100% reproduction panels. One big problem, is the glitter. Gilbert apparently used mica chips, which we have been unable to find. We are going to use clear glitter from a craft store, but it is not going to look quite the same... So does anyone have the photos in question, and any ideas on where a guy can purchase mica chips?

Message 372

Winter Wonderland Set

From: carl552@aol.com
Remote Name: 66.69.236.63
Date: December 04, 2002
Time: 11:10 PM
Comments

I purchased a Winter Wonderland Set that was missing the houses and large trees. I have extra houses and trees from other sets and wanted paint snow them for the Winter Wonderland set. Does anyone have close up pictures of the Winter Wonderland Set. Thanks, Carl

Message 371

New Pioneer 600 set with six extra panels....

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 65.33.204.122
Date: December 02, 2002
Time: 11:45 PM
Comments

An interesting auction on eBay for "new" in the boxes All Aboard stuff. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1922361040 As always, Cavet Emptor..

Message 370

All Aboard Bumper! eBay auction...

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 65.33.204.122
Date: November 29, 2002
Time: 11:48 AM
Comments

An interesting auction on eBay, complete with photos that I will be adding to the web site later. An All Aboard Bumper from a Westerner set. Not real common... http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1921547500

Message 369

15 All Aboard Auctions on eBay!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 65.33.204.122
Date: November 26, 2002
Time: 12:03 AM
Comments

There are currently 15 (too many to list) All Aboard auctions going on eBay. Included is a 600 set, and 800 set, and even a crossover panel in its original box. You can access the list of current auction by clicking on "Search eBay for All Aboard at the left of this page. Happy Bidding! Chuck...

Message 368

Web Site Move in Progress

From: Chuck
Remote Name: 65.33.204.122
Date: November 24, 2002
Time: 12:17 PM
Comments

Please report any problems you see...

Thanks, Chuck

Message 367

All Aboard Website

From: Robb Jdukins
Remote Name: 66.42.121.5
Date: November 19, 2002
Time: 07:18 AM
Comments

Just wanted to echo in. Website isn't dying, I continue to check on a regular basis and am constantly reviewing old messages and photo for ideas. Perhaps some of us need to get going on presenting pictures of our layouts with specific things we have done. Maybe it is also time to share stories on scenes we have created and special purchases and rare finds we have made. The sucess of this site depends on all of us to provide input to share. I think maybe I need to take my own advice and offer up something. Will tale picture and write a story this week. Perhaps stories on how we became interested in All Aboard would be a nice addition. Perhaps profiles on individuals so we can become familiar with one another. Oh well food for thought, ANyone feeling inspired??????? By the way now is a good time to thank Chuch for all your effort on setting up and maintaining website. You have done an excellent job and I personally find iot very informative and enjoyable. Thanks so much. Robb

Message 366

Champion 800 Set For Sale

From: Mike Leahy
Remote Name: 128.138.85.54
Date: November 17, 2002
Time: 10:09 AM
Comments

I have what appears to be a Champion 800 All Aboard Set for sale (no train set or transformer). It has the panels & what appears to be the entire scenery, houses, signs, etc. Have considered selling it on ebay, but would take bids on them this week from those interested. Would also consider trades if anyone has some nice MoPac passenger cars for trade or . . . I could email you pictures as needed of the All Aboard Set. Mike Leahy (Boulder, CO.) ruth.leahy@colorado.edu

Message 365

All Aboard Website....

From: Karl Raab
Remote Name: 205.188.209.136
Date: November 13, 2002
Time: 12:07 AM
Comments

Hi Chuck The All Aboard Sets Club isn't dying a slow death...... ...But there doesn't seem to be the same level of participation as the old sight...maybe with "Train season" upon us... We need some excitement... I was lucky enough to be at S-Fest here in the Chicago area last month... How many of you were able to see the All Aboard layout set up by Andy Jugle and Art Doety. It was approx some 15 to 20 panels some regular some Winter Wonderland...all with original scenery items... inter-connected with 2 crossover panels back to back. I don't have a track plan and I wish that I had my camera, but hopefully there will be pictures in S-Gaugian or the Dispatch. It sure looked great and drew quite a bit of attention. Karl

Message 364

All Aboard Panels

From: Bill Hutton Judge at KCK
Remote Name: 66.140.95.241
Date: November 12, 2002
Time: 06:44 PM
Comments

Chuck, I don't think the topic of All Aboard Sets is dead at all. Doug Peck of Portlines is planning on reproducing accessories for the sets, and is bidding on new in the box panels, I presume to insure that the accessories are completely correct. I do have an idea for the old curve panels. I think they would make great centerpieces for S Banquets such as held here in the Midwest at S-Fest. Place the Meet car on the track add a billboard for the sponsering City or group and add trees and signs. So don't throw away those curve pieces, I may need them for 2004 S-Fest.

Message 363

re: New in Box all aboard panels

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.206.201
Date: November 12, 2002
Time: 10:19 AM
Comments

Bill, that was quite a find. I have not been quite that lucky, though I am pretty full on All Aboard Stuff right now. I have close to 60 regular panels, and a snow set. Kind of got carried away a little, though many many of the panels are curves! Congrats on your find though. It is encouraging to me when I hear about another big All Aboard find because it tells me there is still a lot of supply out there for the people who still need... Also, thanks for posting. I have been feeling lately like the All Aboard Sets Club is dying a slow death, having been very very few postings. Maybe everyone out there has gone to running their trains on green painted plywood instead... :-)

Message 362

New in Box all aboard panels

From: Bill Hutton, Judge at KCK
Remote Name: 64.218.109.59
Date: November 10, 2002
Time: 12:26 AM
Comments

I'm pleased to report that all aboard sets still pop up at train meets, not just e-bay. The Kansas City S-Gaugers are participating in an all gauge show this weekend at local mall. While setting up our 42 foot long module I spotted some all aboard boxes. Boxes were for right and left hand switches and cross over panels, there was a loose whistle panel and some accessories. Not knowing what was in the boxes made a deal, and now have 2 new cross-overs, 4 switches, 1 whistle panel, 3 other straight panels, 3 curved panels and all the accessories plus. The neatest thing was the Flyer instruction sheet with the original sales slip inside dated Nov 25, 1967 and a total price of 29.95 for "Kenny's trains" noted in pencil. As the only pikemaster collector in our club, I was certainly excited.

Message 361

boysrailroadclub.com

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 65.56.166.209
Date: November 09, 2002
Time: 07:58 AM
Comments

Thanks. I guess he just doesn't answer his email or snail mail.

Message 360

boys railroad club

From: pshowe@ameritech.net
Remote Name: 68.72.100.137
Date: November 01, 2002
Time: 12:50 AM
Comments

He was at the S Fest in October in Tinley Park, Illinois. He had videos and cars.

Message 359

boysrailroadclub.com

From: jdetreville@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 65.56.165.207
Date: October 29, 2002
Time: 09:06 PM
Comments

Does anyone know if John Huster and the http://www.boysrailroadclub.com/index.html is still in business? I sent an order for flyer videos a couple of months back and received nothing, check not cashed either, and no answers to my emails. John

Message 358

Set of 6 Panels on eBay...

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.20.95
Date: October 29, 2002
Time: 06:57 PM
Comments

From my favorite train store, a set of 6 panels... http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1780794421 Good luck.... Chuck

Message 357

Left Hand Switch Panel on eBay...

From: Chuck / myflyertrains
Remote Name: 65.33.20.95
Date: October 29, 2002
Time: 06:55 PM
Comments

Hello, is anyone out there? Here is an eBay auction for a 26142 Left Switch All Aboard Panel in OB. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1782232617 Cavet Emptor, Chuck

Message 356

Set of Panels

From: jfred436@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 24.52.176.179
Date: October 24, 2002
Time: 03:08 PM
Comments

A set of 6 panels is going rather cheep today, would be worth a look if anyone needs them: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1778957056 jfred

Message 355

Snow Panel sparkles?

From: mylfyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: October 08, 2002
Time: 01:19 PM
Comments

We found some pretty nice "Crystal Clear" Glitter at Micheals Craft store. It comes in a 14 oz shaker bottle and is made by Glitterex Corp. It is stored with the Christmas stuff, so if you want some, better check it out soon. It is perhaps not quite as fine as the original stuff, but we are planning to use it to make some repro snow panels. For one thing, I need a couple more snow straights for my Chrismas layout! :-)

Message 354

York!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: October 03, 2002
Time: 01:04 PM
Comments

I am looking forward to seeing some of you at York. As in the past, I will be wearing the lanyard made from the All Aboard billboard, so come up and say hello! A reminder that the Gilbert meeting is at the Four Points Hotel Thursday evening, so try and make it if you are there! I expect I will be staying around the corner at the Days Inn. Later....Chuck

Message 353

RICH DUNLAP

From: jimmypace521@aol.com
Remote Name: 152.163.189.133
Date: September 05, 2002
Time: 10:54 PM
Comments

SEND ME YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I LOSTED YOURS.

Message 352

Re: How to paint mountains

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 199.174.226.81
Date: September 03, 2002
Time: 04:37 AM
Comments

Chuck...you are exactly right, the snow panels are regular panels that were painted over to make a winter scene. To the best of my knowledge all the scenic panels were hand painted although I'm sure they used some kind of masks or stencils to make the job go much faster. I have two sets of snow panels and the glittery, off white paint is different on each one. That would suggest hand painting. My full set contains 2 mountains that are not painted the same either. As far as recreating mountains I'm going to try white acrylic paint and then sprinkle glitter over it before the paint dries using an original mountain as a pattern....Brad

Message 351

re: Snow Panels / how to paint mountains?

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: September 02, 2002
Time: 12:13 PM
Comments

What is the best way to apply the paint to the summer mountains, in order to turn them into Winter ones. Are they best brushed? How do you think Gilbert did it? Is it just me, or does it look like snow panels were once summer panels that Gilbert added white paint and glitter to? I noticed that where paint is scraped off the road, it is about the same color gray as a normal panel....Chuck

Message 350

RE: Snow Panels

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 199.174.225.183
Date: August 31, 2002
Time: 12:23 PM
Comments

Chuck...Those snow panels cleaned up very well. The areas that are a little off white are where they applied the sparkle material. When I washed mine the some of the sparkle material came off but they still look good. I just went to a craft store here and got some acrylic paint with glitter in it and a tube of loose glitter that looks to be about the same as what was on the panels. My panels needed new track so I now need to add snow to the ties and paint two mountains and a tunnel to match the panels. Let me know if you don't find replacement track, might be able to help you out......Brad

Message 349

re: eBay 800 Set Hidden - 1 day left!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 31, 2002
Time: 11:56 AM
Comments

Wow, Pricey! Auctioned ended at $255.00

Message 348

Message 347

eBay 800 Set Hidden - 1 day left!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 29, 2002
Time: 07:48 PM
Comments

Hidden in the standard scale area on eBay, AMERICAN FLYER ALL ABOARD 65 TRAIN SET 20811 Item # 1761735882 8 panel set with some accessories, trains & box it seems... Looks like a nice set. Currently $50.99 Let the buyer beware! Chuck

Message 346

Brads Site - www.AllAboardSets.com Links updated

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 23, 2002
Time: 05:30 PM
Comments

Brad and all concerned. I have updated this web site's links to go directly to Brad's new url. AllAboardSets.com Enjoy, Chuck

Message 345

re: Snow Panels-Yes

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 23, 2002
Time: 02:51 PM
Comments

Brad, even "I" can not bring myself to modify a snow panel! I am going to restore them to as original condition as I can, and my winter layout will therefore have pikemaster track. I am going to need some photos though of how to reproduce the winter mountains and tunnel, as they do not come with the set of panels I purchased.

Message 344

Re: Snow Panels-Yes!

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 199.174.227.243
Date: August 23, 2002
Time: 01:34 PM
Comments

Chuck...ALL RIGHT!...You finally found some. Those don't look bad at all. They will clean up nicely, I think you will be very pleased with how they will come out. Will you keep them original or modify them? I'm working on painting a couple of mountains and a tunnel for mine. Enjoy!....Brad

Message 343

Snow Panels - Yes!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 23, 2002
Time: 12:53 PM
Comments

Happy days, it is Christmas in August! I was fortunate to find a set of snow panels on the S-List. They will need some cleaning and touch-up, but I am confident we will be able to restore them to their former glory. Looking forward to making these the center of our Christmas tree layout this year, and perhaps adding a couple of "reproductions" snow panels to compliment the set.

Message 342

snow panels

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 198.81.16.41
Date: August 14, 2002
Time: 11:17 PM
Comments

Chuck...I have 9 snow panels some of which were yellowed when I purchased them. The track was pretty badly damaged so I removed it and washed the panels with dish detergent and a gentle brush. Some of the glitter material came off but the panels were a nice clean flat white color. I think if you use a flat white (almost the color of the roadbed you will be pretty close. They also had a glitter material sprayed on them for a sparkle effect. The roads are a flat black with patches of snow and glitter. The track had a line of snow painted on the ties with glitter also. Look on the All Aboard site at My Snow Panel Set for a few pictures of my first set. Hope this helps.

Message 341

21004 Pennsy Steamer with Boxes/Inserts

From: NicksTrains.com
Remote Name: 68.5.43.176
Date: August 12, 2002
Time: 08:10 PM
Comments

I currently have listed a 21004 Pennsy Steamer/21404 Tender with Boxes/Inserts, as well as other Flyer items. Please visit www.NicksTrains.com for more info. Thanks!

Message 340

Replicating / painting snow panels

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 11, 2002
Time: 10:13 AM
Comments

The question was raised on the S-list, about repainting regular All Aboard Panels into winter or snow panels. I have been unable to find a snow panel to use as a sample, so I would be interested in hearing from some of you that have them. One of my biggest questions concerns the color of the paint. If you have ever seen a snow panel, they are not just white, but but have shinney component to them. I have to believe that over time, they have greyed though. Of the few I have seen, they range from grey to almost yellow, which is not very attactive. I would like the panels for a Christmas layout, perhaps combined with our Christmas Villiage ceramic pieces, and I definately want white snow, not yellow. If I am going to paint panels, then I am going to paint them in the color I "think" they might have been when they were made in the 1950s. Still, it is a little hard without a sample... I believe the panels would have been quite white, with occassional shinney flecks. Acrylic paint has been wonderful for the summer panels. You can buy inexpensive paint at a craft store or Walmart, and mix it to nearly perfectly match. My touched up panels are very hard to see that they have been painted, so I feel that this is the type of paint to use for replicating snow panels as well. I have seen the glitter stuff as an additive as well. Comments and Ideas from the club would be most appreciated! ....Chuck

Message 339

re: All Aboard Scenic Panel Site Has Moved!!!!!!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 06, 2002
Time: 06:05 PM
Comments

Congratulations are in order for Brad and his relocated All Aboard Site, complete with a new url! Access to his site is real fast, and I know that he will enjoy not getting the "friendly reminders" that he is using too many server resources! Try out his new site, great as always, but fast and spamless! http://www.allaboardsets.com

Message 338

Layout Building Time in the South!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: August 06, 2002
Time: 06:00 PM
Comments

Here in Florida, we wait for the hot weather when it is too hot to go outside, and then pass the time building AF Layouts. At least, that is what some of us do! Well, the 14 panel layout I have pictured on this site is no more! I am excited about the new layout I am building, and will start to put up some pictures soon. The Gargraves switches had to go, and I have gone to 720A switches. This started something, I put in a pair of switches, and was really impressed how good they looked and ran. I then took all the accessories off the layout, and put all real Classic Gilbert accessories on the panels. Everything from Gabe to a Union Talking Station! I got real excited, and then realized my limitations. My patchwork table was not flat. Also, it was too hard to run wiring to all the accessories with the panels just setting on the table. The answer, real benchwork, designed specifically for All Aboard Panels! The table is built, and I have my new track pattern designed! Wow, what a difference. The panels lay flatter and now I can access the bottom of the panels in order to run wiring to accessories and lighting. Get ready, but be warned, this ain't your father's All Aboard Layout! Later....Chuck

Message 337

All Aboard Scenic Panel Site Has Moved!!!!!!

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 209.245.3.172
Date: August 05, 2002
Time: 03:29 AM
Comments

The All Aboard Scenic Panel site has moved to...http://www.allaboardsets.com

The new site is ad free as in "no pop up ads" and is on the same server with the All Aboard Club. Please come visit!

Message 336

panels on eBay

From: Robb Judkins
Remote Name: 207.94.119.209
Date: August 05, 2002
Time: 12:03 AM
Comments

Someone is definately out of touch with reality. People like this are what cause other people to be unreasonable in pricing thier items. Some people don't know where to find value and just overprice everything because they have "heard" that toy trains are valuable. It is unfortunate that this happens as it makes difficult for those who really desire pieces to obtain them.

Message 335

panels on eBay

From: jfred436@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 24.52.182.198
Date: August 04, 2002
Time: 04:04 PM
Comments

A set of panels on eBay now, the rails must be gold plated to cost that much. I sure don't think they are worth over $40.00 a panel. Or, am I like the NYC RR exec who looked at the tracks of the NYC&StL RR and said "I wouldn't own that road if the rails were Nickle Plated". As I recall the story, He did later run that road. jfred

Message 334

Panel parts

From: Doug Peck (doug@portlines.com)
Remote Name: 24.61.158.184
Date: July 23, 2002
Time: 09:42 AM
Comments

After a LONG period of getting pricing quotes, etc, I have given the "GO" for production of repro streetlights and stop signs for the AA panels. These will be injection-molded in white plastic, like originals. I hope to have them available by fall. Will keep everyone informed. If this works out successfully, I hope to do the long picket fences next. www.portlines.com Doug

Message 333

caution!

From: belairchevy
Remote Name: 65.58.57.231
Date: July 16, 2002
Time: 01:50 PM
Comments

In the July 2002 issue of the TCA National Headquarters News are listed a sealed Pioneer 600 and Champion 800 set by the same person. Because of a past dealing on an All Aboard set with this person I urge you to use extreme caution here as the condition of the sets may be misrepresented.

Message 332

Re: Winter Wonderland Set

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: June 30, 2002
Time: 05:33 AM
Comments

What can I say? WOW This one is not going cheap. I would love to have just a single Winter Panel, and here is a whole set! Later...Chuck

Message 331

Winter Wonderland set

From: Robb Judkins
Remote Name: 207.94.240.192
Date: June 29, 2002
Time: 05:54 PM
Comments

Winter Wonderland Set on EBAY http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1745319342

Message 330

Ooops... Regarding the preceding auction

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: June 17, 2002
Time: 07:12 PM
Comments

I see in looking at the auction, that one of the panels is actually a switch panel. Please proceed to eBay in an orderly manner; no pushing or shoving. And as always, "let the buyer beware". Chuck

Message 329

Oh My, a Crossover Panel and more on eBay!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: June 17, 2002
Time: 06:49 PM
Comments

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1741773003 Crossovers are hard to come by! Two Curves, a straight and a crossover. Good Luck!

Message 328

A Couple More Interesting eBay Auctions!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: June 08, 2002
Time: 08:21 AM
Comments

Left Hand Switch Panel in Original Box: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1738107728

Pioneer 600 Set With Trains: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1739258473

Enjoy, and let the buyer beware! Chuck

Message 327

Re: another set on ebay - fixing panels up!

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: June 08, 2002
Time: 08:13 AM
Comments

This set of panels has no track and is a little worn. Here are a few tips on restoring panels like these. First, craft paint available at places like Walmart and other craft stores can be mixed to recreate the colors on these panels exactly. We have repaired straight panels with pieces taken off broken curved panels, by glueing them in place with fast setting epozy, and then mixing different shades of green until an exact match was found. After the paint dried, you could not see the repair from the top of the panel. Obviously, replacement pikemaster track and eyelets are available in a number of places, including eBay and Hobby Surplus. It you look at my layout pictures, they show that Gargraves track can also be used, and I prefer it on a layout where I am going to run the trains a lot. Also, S-Helper has a new flex track that can be bent into tight radius, and would probably also be a possibility. The main thing is, have fun with your All Aboard Panels! Chuck

Message 326

another set on ebay

From: Robbjud
Remote Name: 207.93.150.233
Date: June 07, 2002
Time: 11:37 PM
Comments

Another panel set with no track. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1738870416

Message 325

eBay Auction of an exceptional 6 panel set

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: June 03, 2002
Time: 05:47 PM
Comments

Not going cheap, but looks close to LN with original box, etc. Take a look and good luck! http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1737390931

Message 324

Panel set

From: jfred436
Remote Name: 24.52.182.198
Date: May 29, 2002
Time: 10:42 PM
Comments

That's different, the panels with no track, they look clean enough to have never had the track

Message 323

eBay Auction of Pioneer 600 Panel Set

From: myflyertrains / Chuck
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: May 29, 2002
Time: 08:41 PM
Comments

Some All Aboard Panels, without track! http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1736384950

Message 322

Another set on eBay

From: Jfred436@yahoo.com
Remote Name: 24.52.182.198
Date: May 24, 2002
Time: 10:50 PM
Comments

Here's an AA set, perhaps not quite right, but so far going cheep enough. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1734572225

Message 321

cars and people

From: Robb Judkins
Remote Name: 207.94.119.206
Date: May 18, 2002
Time: 10:25 PM
Comments

Chuck thanks for info. Gives me some tplace to start. Here in Southern California theres a Walmart and Target on practically every corner. Am in the process of building a semi permanent yet portable layout table to display my pioneer 600 set. This set has stayed in box when not in use until now. Want to build display table with a rectangular frame that panels sit down into so they don't slide apart. Am going to finish edges and legs in oak so blends in with other furniture. I will post pictures of construction when I get a chance. Want to keep portable as I like to do Railroad Merit Badge Clinics for Boy Scouts and this makes a nice display. Have also used for Cub scout pack meetings as well. Am very excited to have learned about these sets and am enjoying information on all the web sites I have looked at. Until Later Robb

Message 320

S people and cars

From: Robb Judkins
Remote Name: 207.94.118.154
Date: May 18, 2002
Time: 01:28 AM
Comments

Am new to "S" and am having trouble finding a source for S people and cars. Read in an archived message about matchbox cars, but cant find anything on people. Any help appreciated Thanks Robb

Message 319

Re: New all aboard enthusiast

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: May 12, 2002
Time: 05:02 PM
Comments

Welcome Robb! We are glad to have you with us. All Aboarding has a lot of potential; more than a lot of Flyer folks know. There a couple of photo collections on this site (Gene's and Rich's) that display some exceptional and imaginative layouts using All Aboard Panels. And, I am sure there are many possiblilities that no one has even thought about yet....Enjoy and please continue to post! Thanks, Chuck

Message 318

New all aboard enthusiast

From: Robb Judkins
Remote Name: 207.93.150.20
Date: May 12, 2002
Time: 10:05 AM
Comments

I have had a pioneer 600 set that I bought about ten years ago simply because I liked the looks of it. After displaying at a train show a few weeks ago several people explained to me what it was(I didn't know before) I than began looking and found your website and Brads site. Am delighted to learn about these sets and look forward to starting to collect them.

Message 317

Spring Spree Middletown Ohio

From: Dave Garber
Remote Name: 68.1.180.58
Date: May 08, 2002
Time: 03:37 AM
Comments

Bill I will try to hook up with them. i am staying in the Inn and going to the dinner Friday night.

Message 316

Spring Spree

From: Bill Hutton
Remote Name: 64.154.125.248
Date: May 06, 2002
Time: 11:40 PM
Comments

Dave I won't be able to make S-Spree. I am sending Fred Hauser and Tom Thomason of the Kansas City S-Gaugers to look for All Aboard accessories as well as a heavy duty transformer. Hope you will get to meet these guys, they are both delightful and a credit to our hobby(both collect and operate a lot of flyer, Fred even repairs pikemaster cars and locomotives)

Spring Spree Middletown Ohio

From: Dave Garber
Remote Name: 68.1.180.58
Date: May 03, 2002
Time: 07:55 PM
Comments

Any All Aboard Sets Club members going to the Spree May 10-11. I plan on going and would like to say HELLO to any other that will be going. thanks dave,d.garber@cox.net or dngarb@yahoo.com

Message 315

Re: Filler used on homemade crossover panel

From: Rich Dunlap / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:24 AM
Comments

Date: April 26, 2002 Time: 10:34 AM BelaireChevy asked what type of fill I used on the homemade crossover panel. It was either Bondo with the hardener or a polyester product made by Evercoat called Evercoat Easy Sand, #421. According to my paint and body friend, the Evercoat flows smoother and is a little easier to work with than the Bondo. We can't remember which we used, but either one should do the job.

Message 314

Source for repair parts

From: *Don / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:21 AM
Comments

Date: April 23, 2002 Time: 09:36 AM I remember, way back in the Yahoo days, that there was some discussion about replacing the rivets securing the tracks to the All Aboard panels. I found this site, and it seems to have many small repair pieces for these sets. http://www.ssstrains.com/ One the first parts mentioned is the eyelets for securing the track. Hope this helps.

Message 313

All Aboard Set 800 on eBay - with extras

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:20 AM
Comments

Date: April 14, 2002 Time: 09:36 PM Comments On eBay, Item # 1722565244. An 8 panel 800 set with extra engines, etc. This is a reserve auction, but depending upon what the reserve is, could be a good buy for someone. Good Luck...Chuck

Message 312

re: Homemade Crossover Panel

From: belairchevy / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:19 AM
Comments

Date: April 12, 2002 Time: 02:15 AM Very clever modification and it looks good. I was curious about the autobody repair material you used. Is this the same thing as "bondo", is it in putty form, where can it be purchased (auto parts store)? My idea is to take a straight panel and fill in the lake and house area and then add a talking station with a parking lot.

Message 311

re: Homemade Crossover Panel

From: Jfred436@yahoo.com / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:18 AM
Comments

Date: April 11, 2002 Time: 10:18 PM I like Rich's idea. It takes a bit of surgery to the panel, but looks good with the roadway as a roadbed. At least it's another way to go, with the prices I've seen the Gilbert ones go at. And the more of us that are using the panels, the higher prices of good ones are likely to go. We do need more than the common streight and curve panels to make more than a very simple layout.

Message 310

Homemade Crossover Panel

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:16 AM
Comments

Date: April 10, 2002 Time: 05:29 PM My thanks to Rich Dunlap, for his contribution of photo of a homemade crossover panel, which was kitbashed out of a straight panel. A great idea, considering the price of crossovers! You will find his picture in the Photos section, under Rich Dunlap. Thanks.....Chuck

Message 309

York

From: David Garber / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:15 AM
Comments

Date: April 09, 2002 Time: 09:18 PM Chuck ,I will be there. In the same motel as last year, Red Roof from Tues. thru Sat Am. see you Thursday if not B4

Message 308

Who is going to York? !!!

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:14 AM
Comments

Date: April 09, 2002 Time: 05:40 PM Hello All. I am getting ready to leave soon for York, and wondered how many All Aboard Sets Club" members are going to be there trying to beat me to that MINT Winter Panel Set? Actually, at the moment I would settle for just one beat up snow panel. We are hoping to repaint some normal panels into snow panels, and nead a sample so we can match the paint. If you see a guy at York wearing a lanyard around his neck that says "All Aboard" on it, it may be me! I expect to be at the Wednesday night Gilbert meeting, so if you see me there or at the main meet, say hello! See You at York! Chuck

Message 307

Re: 36 Panel Layout

From: Rich Dunlap / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:13 AM
Comments

Date: March 28, 2002 Time: 10:06 AM BelairChevy asked how long it takes to set up the layout. We set it on top of banquet tables with a king size blanket between the panels and the tables. This helps dampen some of the sound. It takes us a couple of hours to set up, most of this time being spent putting on the buildings, vehicles, trees, etc. Rich

Message 306

Re: 36 Panel layout

From: freddok1 / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:12 AM
Comments

Date: March 27, 2002 Time: 08:08 PM Nice job. Like the giraffe cars and the "hit or miss" setup. One can really do a lot with All Aboard panels. Frederick P. Kopetz

Message 305

Re: NIce Looking Champion 800 set with trains

From: freddok1 / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:10 AM
Comments

Date: March 27, 2002 Time: 08:03 PM Well, the auction is over...the Champion 800 went over what I was willing to spend this particular week and I didn't win it. I have a bonus coming around May or June, so when this comes up again on eBay, I can try again, bidding about $75 more than my maximum bid this time, I think I should be able to get it. They seem to be going for around $250 right now and I was just $25 under that. Trying again in a few weeks... Frederick P. Kopetz

Message 304

Re: 36 Panel Layout

From: belairchevy / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:09 AM
Comments

Date: March 27, 2002 Time: 03:12 AM WOW! What a cool layout that is. How long does it take to set up? I know the kids love those giraffe cars, what a clever idea. Once again this shows what a little imagination can do to really enhance an All Aboard layout. Thanks for sharing with us!!!!!!!

Message 303

36 Panel Layout Pictures

From: Rich Dunlap / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:08 AM
Comments

Date: March 26, 2002 Time: 09:33 PM Thanks Chuck, for posting the pictures. To give credit where it is due, my friend Gene Linder was the mastermind behind the giraffe car setup. We co-own this layout and have great fun with it. This is a great website and should generate a lot of interest.

Message 302

Rich (Richard Dunlap) 36 Layout Pictures!

From: myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:07 AM
Comments

Date: March 26, 2002 Time: 07:41 PM Added to the site tonight, are photos of a unique All Aboard Sets Layout contributed by Richard Dunlap. Rich's layout features lighted buildings, a "hit and miss train", and Lionel Giraffe cars modified for S Gauge. A great contribution to the site for all to enjoy! Thanks Rich for sharing your photos with us!

Message 301

Snow Panel

From: Dave Garber / c/o myflyertrains
Remote Name: 24.26.38.153
Date: April 27, 2002
Time: 10:06 AM
Comments

Date: March 25, 2002 Time: 09:16 PM It would have to snow 2in. Chucks part of the world for me to go that high. What would the person pay for the set? Good luck in York and you will not have to fight me off .