Why should we start a toy train blog?

My father has collected toy trains since he was a kid. That makes it over 60 years. He knows everything imaginable and has an amazing collection. This site attempts to develop a toy train community online by providing educational content,...

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Christmas with American Flyer

Christmas with American Flyer

The Holiday Season has always been a focus of toy trains. In some families it was the time of year to put up the train set under the Christmas tree with a village or putz to add to the festive décor in the living room. In other families it was the time of year for a...

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American Flyer Bridges and Tunnels – Part 1

American Flyer Bridges and Tunnels – Part 1

When Gilbert acquired American Flyer in 1938, they introduced Gilbert designed accessories to compliment the train line. The first Gilbert American Flyer design bridges used Gilbert Erector Set Gilbert AF 1st Bridgeparts. The migration of parts went the other way as well. The house at the top of an American Flyer signal tower became the Erector Set house.

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American Flyer Accessory Crossing Gates Guide

American Flyer Accessory Crossing Gates Guide

Gilbert American Flyer Crossing Gates were introduced in the pre war 3/16’s product line from 1938 to 1941. Many of the parts that were in inventory when toy production was stopped for the war were saved and then used in the post war products. The first crossing gate introduced in the post war period was the 591 which continued the prewar 591 design but with the wiring adapted to the newly introduced two rail track system.

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What are the different types of American Flyer Train Motors

What are the different types of American Flyer Train Motors

Gilbert American Flyer made a variety of train motors based on the various train models they were manufacturing. In general, the motors were designed to match the type of locomotives they were modeled after and had a variety of features. It appears that there were approximately 6 different types of American Flyer Train motors as well as a variety used in accessories and other components.

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What American Flyer Locomotive Service Manual Do I need?

What American Flyer Locomotive Service Manual Do I need?

So you have an old Gilbert American Flyer Train Engine that is broken or needs service. This page will provide you an index and links to the appropriate original service manual. The left column provides the original American Flyer Locomotive part number and the right column is the link to the manual itself.

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2 Comments

  1. majordcc

    Hello, I have a 18B 190 watt American Transformer. One side works well, but the other side there is no juice. I open the casing and inspected the wire visually and cannot see any disconnect. Do you have any suggestion on how to repair this problem. The transformer otherwise looks very good. Thanks. Doug

  2. duvputer

    I am looking for a parts diagram for the American Flyer 21004 0-6-0 yard switcher so I can order the correct parts for it. Does anyone know where I can find that? Thanks

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