I retired from a career in the medical profession in 2010 after 35+ years. At that point I rekindled my American Flyer interest and in the summer of 2011 started servicing and repairing engines. I decided I could help those who had American Flyer and were looking for someone to fix their prized possessions. I've been asked why my price is so low. The answer is, I do it because I want to see these engines keep running so that future generations can have a chance at the enjoyment they brought to my generation. I hope they can bring many fun hours for kids, parents and grandparents. I have made many friends in the hobby through this and through the American Flyer facebook pages. They are a great group that are willing to share their knowledge and experience in a positive forum for every level of hobbyist.
I am also a volunteer at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center and work on the crew for the former SP 4449 and Oregon Railroad and Transportation Co.197. I am there 2 days a week helping with the maintenance and restoration of these two steam locomotives. I even got to sit in the fireman's seat of the 4449 for a few runs during our Holiday Express event last November 2015! An amazing experience. Now I am learning to run the lathes and mills in the shop as I work on the brake rigging on the 4449's tender.
Between the 1:64 scale and 1:1 scale trains I'm busier now than my original career!