Thanks for the help everyone. I got the Bachmann Spectrum Keystone Pennsylvania set. I am going to try and work on a 4 x 8 layout with my son and set up on the floor in the mean time.
Thanks,
Hello,
>
> My son has taken an interest in model railroads after watching the Thomas
> the Tank shows and playing with their wooden rail systems. He's been
> asking for a "real" train that can go by itself. When I was growing up
> Lionel trains were the ones to have but I just found out they don't make
> HO anymore and the vintage ones are more than I'd like to spend right now
> for a 4 year old. Can anyone give me some idea of some brands and sets I
> should look at? The local Model Train store recommended the Silver Star
> set by Bachman but I'm not sure if this will allow him to expand as he
> grows. One thing I remember about the old Lionel trains was that you
> could buy pieces of track or engines separately as you grew. I'm
> concerned that the Bachmann tracks appear to be pre-mounted on plastic.
> Is this correct? If my son takes to this hobby I want a set that can be
> put down on a table and expanded without being stuck to one manufacturer. >
> Thanks for your help
>
> Michael
>