How to Make a Wooden Strombecker Locomotive run!
By Mike Stella
There are probably a number of old-timer TCA members that paid $1.00 as a kid and purchased a Strombecker kit of an early American steam locomotive, and had a great time mixing the packet of wood glue, and holding the pieces together waiting for that glue to dry.
I have had a lot of fun locating a few of these wooden kits and spending enjoyable hours sanding, filling, painting, and gluing. (All parts included, even the glue!)
I have been pleased with the final results but a static model is not as much fun as one that can run the “miles” around my Lionel railroad. The solution was easy. I simply took a few old Lionel flatcars, mounted simulated wooden ties, used some Flyer rails, and “chained” my locomotives down so as not to lose them in a long tunnel.
I pretend they are on the way to the Sacramento Railfair to take part in the celebration of American Steam Power. I’ve written articles in the past about special flatcar loads I have added to my roster. One even showed up in the Lionel catalog a year later! I know there are many TCA members that have created their own loads and it would be great to see them all.
Happy Collecting!