Unboxing an unbuilt Metroliner

[Carrera124]

The story behind

Born in the late 70s, I grew up in the 80s. My favourite themes were town (I received nearly all town sets from that era), and technic. Moreover, I'd always like to have one of those beautiful 4,5/12V train sets, like 7735 or 7745. But my parents told me that I could either get technic stuff set or train sets, but not both themes together. So, it always ended up with increasing my technic collection...

In 1991, I saw a new chance. A new system, a new era. 4563 was the set to go. But again, my parents refused, arguing that I would be too old for Lego in general. They were right, I went on to buy my first computer (which is another story) and bought my last Lego sets in 1992. The dark ages started.

But they were not 100% dark, as I never missed to grab the new catalog each year, what helped to keep me on track.

Some years ago, the dark ages were gone and I went into PF trains. Simply because they were available easily, they were affordable and they were close to 80s looks and standards. In contrast to the city theme, where cars and everything else seems to be extremely blown up, compared to 80s 4wide standards.

The story today

I never planned to get into 9V trains. TLG has dropped the 9V system quite some years ago, even the support has ended. Sets and parts are highly sought after, and therefore rather expensive, even if they are in used condition. But some days ago, it happened: I managed to get an unbuilt 4558 Metroliner at a reasonable price. I just couldn't resist. Seals are loose due to age, but the parts are still in their trans-clear bags.

Opening the set

The top of the box looks rather worn:

Parts in sorting tray and polybags:

Sorting tray, foil is still sticking firmy:

Compared to today's sets, the amount of parts looks somewhat small:

Instructions in perfect condition, stickers look also very good:

What's next?

I don't know.

Keep the set unbuilt?

Build it?

Try to get a box which is in better condition?

Try to swap it against an unbuilt 4563 set?

[RTZX9R]

I'd keep it un-built due to the value. If you really want to build the set, but a used copy off Bricklink and enjoy it.

[Carrera124]

To be honest, in most cases I have bad experience with buing used sets, no matter from bricklink, ebay or elsewhere. There was always something missing, or broken. Which resulted in additional purchases in order to complete or improve the used set. I'm tired of that.

[JopieK]

Wow that was a great find! Nice job Carrera, I think you have a piece of gold there!!! You could write a set review of course (even officially through the academy).

[Player]

Nice find. My advice is, to enjoy it to the fullest, and build it!! I have mine from when I was young, many good memories, spent many many hours playing with it. Now you need to find a new Club Car.. I would, however, look for a mint box..

[Rijkvv]

I must say I'm a little jealous.

I would build it. It's meant to be built.

After the Santa Fe train (which wasn't a single set), this is definitely the best train since, well, maybe ever. The 12 volt system has more features, but the trains look outdated, while I think the Metroliner is timeless.

It had opening doors (the last regular available set to have those), working lights, a functional platform (nowadays the platform will only be long enough for one door) and a design that's not only timeless, but can fit in any modern layout. It looks like it's designed as an electrical multiple unit like you can see in Europe, including the traditional buffers (although not common on EMU's) while the colours have a striking resemblance to the Amtrak scheme.

Be sure to check out the club car: 4547 or its later re-release 10002. It might be a little expensive, but since you already bought a new Metroliner...

Edited August 5, 2014 by Richie

[Carrera124]

Is there any difference between the 4547 club car and it's 10002 re-release? According to Bricklink, I can't spot anything.

[eurotrash]

PF is ok, but there's something special about 9V and there's something really freakin' awesome about the Metroliner.

Build it! Build it! Build it! Build it!

[dr_spock]

Nice find. If you can't build it, I am sure one of us here will be more than happy to help you build.

[Carrera124]

Okay, I guess I'll build it. But this won't happen today or tomorrow, I think it needs the right moment. Maybe around christmas.

To be honest, I didn't disclose everything

And it's not from Bricklink - 500$ is somewhere beyond everything...

Edited August 5, 2014 by Carrera124

[VintageLegoEra]

Yes...build it on the right time...these sets meant to be built, if not now then one day....great train u have!

[Rail Co]

Well you already have the box open your halfway there! These sets were meant to be opened and enjoyed, not to stay in a box forever on a shelf!

Enjoy it! Have fun with it!

-RailCo

[Pizzareno]

I will go along with the majority here and say build it. Unless of course you will think about selling it in the future. For me, I will probably never sell any of my LEGO so building it and playing with it is the priority. I bought a 41999 and promptly opened it, my daughter sat on the box and squished it and I took it outside (against the advice of the instructions) and drove it off a piece of play equipment onto the concrete. It did damage some of those nice silver pieces but I guess it is getting played with and the monetary value makes no difference to me as it won't get sold.

I did cringe when I saw what happened to the pieces but now after a few months it doesn't bother me. I don't go out to actively destroy my LEGO it just happened that the controller lost contact with receiver and I couldn't stop it!

[opn2]

Edited September 27, 2014 by opn2

[v6TransAM]

Build it, build it, build it.

That is all.

[1980-Something-Space-Guy]

This set is amazing... I remember getting it for Christmas, back in '04... Ahhhh good memories from childhood.

Build it! You won't regret it. And if you get the additional club car that was sold as a separate set, get it and build it! It's totally worth it!

[Carrera124]

I'm convinced, I think I'll build it around Christmas 2014. Until then, maybe I'll find a box top that comes in better condition.

Edited August 6, 2014 by Carrera124

[KringlesBricks]

Totally worth building it for yourself for sure! It's yours to enjoy and to keep in your collection. I wouldn't sell it if I were in your shoes with those sets.

[zephyr1934]

Wow, great find! If you are a MISB collector don't build it. If you like running trains, definitely build it.

Is there any difference between the 4547 club car and it's 10002 re-release? According to Bricklink, I can't spot anything.

I think someone posted that there is a very small difference, e.g., one has 1x2x2 with solid studs the other has them with hollow studs. As for the metroliner, I think the original has a door that is printed while the reproduction has stickers. I think the number of holes in the baseplates might also differ. You could compare the part inventories on bricklink or other sites.

It did damage some of those nice silver pieces but I guess it is getting played with and the monetary value makes no difference to me as it won't get sold.

I did cringe when I saw what happened to the pieces but now after a few months it doesn't bother me. I don't go out to actively destroy my LEGO it just happened that the controller lost contact with receiver and I couldn't stop it!

That's one of the great things about lego, you break a part or scratch it up, you just have to get a new piece. You don't have to replace the whole set.

[VintageLegoEra]

When build it, we need a building thread..;-)

I would prefer this on the re-re 10001. You know why?..here is the reason.

In 4558, the contents are well packed in blister and the sticker and the manual are well placed too so upon unboxing everything will appear nice and in perfect condition.

In 10001, the packing method sucks and bad. Everything is mixed together were you will see many scratches. As for the sticker and the manual, they are the worst ( if you are nit Lucky ), manual is squeezed and the sticker is squeezed and peeled off from their places.

I love how lego illustrated their interior sets with blisters and cartons as from 2000 the packing is so cheap.

Regards

[1980-Something-Space-Guy]

I would prefer this on the re-re 10001.

I've heard some people complain about the Legends sets. I'll say though that I had 10001 and 10002, and I was satisfied with the conditions. Granted, I was 12 years old, but I was a picky fan even then. I guess it's also a matter of luck.

[jaesroe]

To be honest, in most cases I have bad experience with buing used sets, no matter from bricklink, ebay or elsewhere. There was always something missing, or broken. Which resulted in additional purchases in order to complete or improve the used set. I'm tired of that.

I Do agree cannot agree with you more. I have had bad experience of buying and building used lego set. 10197, smelly (smoke) and missing bricks though seller proudly mentioned 100% complete, but 8 missing pieces and one extra 1x8 tile bricks...which is impossible for lego set. Since then, no used set for modular..

Train...I have bought second hand 4512 and 4564 ...overall condition was relatively better than 10197, but since they are used set....worn out edge of train logo stickers... foggy,scratched wind screen... a bit scratched of plate's edge...and...had to wash again as i cannot know where all these bricks have come from.... the one of the issues of used set is loosen clutch power. In case of 4564, the 2x2 of rear coupling holder was loose...so every time it is connected with rear cargo train, it was disassembled as the clutch power was loose...annoyed..also, since the set was so great and I liked it. I decided to buy new one and...purchased it...Happy...new is the answer if you really really want it..

Edited May 25, 2015 by jaesroe

[ecmo47]

I picked up a used 4558 from Craigslist. The box was in better shape but it does not have the interior packing materials. I'm curious as to what the piece of literature is in the upper left of the instruction picture that show the pirate and space man fleeing from the train on a handcar. Also, since this is an old thread, did you ever build it for Christmas?

[VintageLegoEra]

I am getting mine (10001 and 10002) soon amd thought to keep this thread alive as i will post some detailed photos of the sets

Edited November 18, 2015 by VintageLegoEra

[Jim]

I am getting mine (10001 and 10002) soon amd thought to keep this thread alive as i will post some detailed photos of the sets

If you are bumping a topic, please wait till you actually have something useful to add. Now you are just bumping to say you will be adding something later.