Ask Dr. Toy:  Your Questions And Answers About Toys

 


Ask Dr. Toy Questions and Answers Archives

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SAKURA THE BEANIE BABY
Where can I buy a Sakura beanie baby online? Thank you, Paul.

SANDBOX
I'm looking for a sandbox for two to three year old.

SARAH HARDING FIGURINE
I've been in search of the Sarah Harding figurine from the Jurassic Park Lost World collection, I haven't ever come across it, and have even contacted the company but to no satisfaction. Do you have any information or suggestions for me? Thanks for any help you might offer.

SCIENCE PROJECT - ELECTRICITY
I am looking for toys for science projects on electricity, such as building a small motor, generator, or transformer, or anything along the lines of electromagnetism. Thank you, Randy.

SCOOTER - HONDA KICK AND GO SCOOTER
I am looking for a Honda Kick And Go Scooter that was made in the 1970's. I found one on the Internet, but it was sold before I got to it.

SEA-MONKEYS
My name is Marcelo and I live in Uruguay. Many years ago, I got an aquarium with Sea-Monkeys, and it was very amusing. Then, one day I was looking for them on in Internet, and I found the address of the company that works with them. I would like to know, if you sell the Kit of Sea-Monkeys and the price. Thanks for your cooperation, I look forward a prompt response.

SEA-MONKEYS - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
I don't sell products. You should try the manufacturers at Exlpora Toys.

SEWING MACHINE TOY
Hello, I am looking for a toy sewing machine for my grand-daughter. I would like one that really sews. Thank you.

SHAPE SORTER
I am looking for a toy that can probably be classified as a shape sorter. When the proper shape is placed in the proper hole, the toy makes a distinct sound. The shapes are easy to hold and are in several bright colors. The only identification marking is "Bendt". The only one I know of was found at a yard sale some time ago. I work with visually impaired children. If you can help me, it would be appreciated both by myself, and the parents I work with.

SIT AND SPIN OCTOPUS
Do you remember a toy for toddlers from around 1998? Is it still available? Who made it? Barbara.

SKEEBOGGAN
I own a Skeeboggan manufactured by Hunt, Helm, Ferris & Co. in Harvard, IL. I am looking for information about the Skeeboggan Snowboard. Information about the company, the year it was made, and its value would be helpful. Kimberly.

SKY KIDS TOY BOX
I found a toy made by SKY KIDS. The cardboard packaging shows them in Cresskill, NJ, but I cannot locate them there. Basically, the toy is a crate/box that contains a mystery something that is trying to get out. You push a button on the crate/box, and a muffled voice says: Scuse me! SCUSE ME! SCUSE ME! Will you let me outta here? The crate/box shakes in your hand (or on the desk, with a rubber suction cup on the bottom) simulating something trying to get out of the box.

SKY RACER
My name is Ross, and I am the Youth Minister at First Baptist Church of Center Point in Birmingham, Alabama. We have a student center that is equipped with all kind of interesting items. One used to be a toy called the Sky Racer. It was a car that ran on a plastic wire suspended from the ceiling. There was a claw on the bottom of the car which could be used to attach various things, and to deliver them to the front of the stage, much like a trolley. The Sky Racer took a corner a little to fast one night and jumped the track and fell to her death. Since then I have been looking for another one or something like it. Any information that might help me would be great. Thanks for your help, Ross.

SLED
I have a 1920's children's sled. It's nine and a half feet long. I believe its called a RIPPER. It's in mint condition with original paint and rope. I can't find any information on it. Would you happen to know anything about it? I really would like to know its worth, and who might be interested in it. Please get back to me. I have emailed many places with no responses so far. Thanks so much.

SMOKING MONKEY
I have a figurine of a smoking monkey. It has the word "Oxley" on the bottom. Does anyone know the value of this 1960's collectible? Also, where can I find the little cigarettes it smokes? Melanie.

SMURFS
I collect Smurf figurines. I know they are still made, but I can't find any place that sells them. Thanks, Jenifer.

SNAP
I wrote to you a couple of months a go about finding information about the card game snap. I received your message that you had found some information, but I wasn't able to access your site for a while. When I looked I couldn't find the information. Thank you very much.

SNAP - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
I recall someone sent in information and he attempted to send it to you as well. Did you change email address? We will try to locate the information and post you query again to see what happens. Stay tuned.

SNAP ART
My name is Candice. I teach at a Presbyterian School in Houston, TX. My colleague has a collection of manipulative-type interlocking puzzle-like pieces called Snap-art. They look like a typical two-head/two-hole puzzle piece with a circle in the center so the pieces can interlock horizontally and vertically. They come in rainbow colors and some with sparkles. The pieces are the size of the tip of my pinkie. I have searched the web and the stores with no success. Other information I have on Snap-art is as follows: They were originally made by Crafthouse Corp. in Toledo, OH 43607; the corporation was a division of RPM company. They were copyrighted in 1992. Another address I saw was CE, European Distributor, Dexim GMBH, 4980 Buende, Germany. This was written on the example creations cards that came with the sets. Do you have any information?

SNOW SLED - CHILD/ADULT
Please, advise me on the choices for a child's snow sled, or an adult snow sled that could also be used by an adult and a child simultaneously. CJS.

SOCCER SET
Where can I find a soccer set for two to four year olds which includes a ball and goal? Thanks, Cathy.

SOLAR SYSTEM MOBILE
I am looking for a forty-eight inch mobile of our solar system which sold for $55.00. The St. Louis Science Museum no longer sells it, and I can't find it anywhere.

SONY PLAYSTATIONS
I have heard that Sony Playstations will be discontinued. Can you tell me anything about this?

SOUND STIMULATION TOY
I work with kids suffering from cerebral palsy. I'm looking for a tubular clear device with spirals running down the length of the tube. The tube contains beads. When the tube is tilted, it makes a noise like cascading raindrops. I cannot find them here in Singapore, so the web seems my best bet. Thanks, Gabriel.

SPACE CAPSULE
I am looking for a tin toy. It is a space capsule that travels on wheels. It has lights, and it has bay doors that open to allow a little space guy to come out and fire a space gun. He then pops back into the capsule, and does it again. Thank you, William.

SPACE FIDGIT
Where can I find Space Fidgit? It is a thin, clear plastic, octagon, about four inches across, resembling a drink coaster. It has a "space age" colorful liquid material inside. When the bottom of the octagon is touched or scratched, the material inside changes colors. Even the warmth of your fingers can make the colors change. Thanks! Chuck

SPACE SUIT
I have a five year old boy who wants a space suit for Christmas. The kind with tanks for breathing, gloves and boots. I can't afford the ones from NASA.

SPACEWARP
Where can I buy a reasonably priced Spacewarp by Bandai?

SPEAK AND SPELL
I would like to find a Speak and Spell! Troy.

SPECIAL NEEDS
I am desperately seeking recommended toys for children with autism. Specifically, I need toys for an eight year old boy (non-verbal). Thanks, Jeannette.

SPECIAL NEEDS TOY
My twelve year-old niece was diagnosed with Leukemia. She is going to be in the hospital for some time. Please, suggest a toy that I can order online and have shipped to her. I want a toy that she will appreciate and use, and one that will help her pass the time, either alone or with others. Maybe something that will be stimulating and interactive, but doesn't require strenuous mental or physical activity on "down" days. I have no idea what toys are "hot" in this age group. Fabien.

SPECIAL NEEDS TOYS
Are there specially made toys for disabled children? Is there a web site that shows these toys?

SPINNING WHEEL
I have been searching the internet trying to find information on a toy that was purchased for my children this Christmas. I am looking for the address of the company which made the following toy: Toy Name: Light up - Battery Operated Spinning Wheel, Company Name: U / I Fortune, Item No: (from box): 688, Made in China, Age Recommended: For ages 3 and over.

SPORTS - BASEBALL - POP-UP
We are in the market for a baseball pop-up toy that a relative of ours found at a garage sale. It is made by a company called Today's Child. It works like this: the child puts a plastic ball in a cylinder, then presses a pedal with her foot; after a few seconds, the ball pops up in the air for batting practice. If you can help us find this toy on the web, our children would really appreciate it!

SPORTS - FOOTBALL w/BUNGEE CORD
We need footballs that are attached to bungee cords. We think they may be named after Jerry Rice. The cord is tied to a fence, so when you throw the ball, it comes back to you. Please, help us if you know what the heck we are talking about. If you can't trust a doctor to help, whom can you trust? Dave.

STAR COM or MANTA FORCE
I would like to know if they still sell STAR COM and MANTA FORCE toys in the United Kingdom. I was going through my old things when I found them. They were on sale about six years ago. Please find what you can about them and e-mail me. Thank you, Richard.

STETHOSCOPE
I want to buy a child's stethoscope that really works. Where I can find one? Thanks.

STICK GAME
What is the name for this toy? It is three sticks, which resemble drumsticks. One is held in each hand. The third is flipped back and forth with those. Thanks, Chad.

STICK TOY HORSE
I've looked for an old fashioned stick horse. Is there no demand or no manufacturers?

STOMPERS
Have you heard of a toy company called Stompers or Stommpers? I am looking for a 'drag'. This is used in tractor pull competitions. My friend's children have one, and they have a lot of fun with it. It is small enough to be used on a large tabletop. Thank you, Sylvia.

STOMPERS
I have collected Stompers ( I joined the adventure ) in the 1980's, and now I cannot find them anywhere. I believe Schaver was making them, and then TYCO bought them out and stopped making them. Are their any groups that still deal with them, like tractor pulls and such? They were mostly powered by AA batteries. They even had a McDonald's Stomper give away as well. Please help. Thanks.

STOMPERS - RESPONSE
Wal-Mart still stocks Stompers. They cost $4.95 in the United States ($6.95 in Canada). Alecta.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE
Strawberry Shortcake dolls came out in the late 1970's or very early 1980's. I remember having a few of the toys that were manufactured by Kenner. At the time she was under copyright with a company called Those Characters from Cleveland. She appeared on greeting cards for American Greetings and Carlton cards, both of whom I've been in touch with. Carlton wrote me back saying that the company just recently dissolved. However, I know they made a small comeback in 1991; the toys were distributed by THQ Toy Distributors, and she was still under copyright with Those Characters from Cleveland. I'm a mother with two children. I want them to have an opportunity to play with these dolls. They are now collectibles and it is very difficult to pay the outrageous prices people are selling them for and also time consuming. I want to write to whoever has the ownership of the copyrights to Strawberry Shortcake, and ask what became of this doll and if they will ever make another comeback with her. I have had very few leads. I know this may sound trivial to some, but I really want to put my mind to rest and find out exactly what happened.

STUFFED CHICKENS
I am looking for singing stuffed chickens. I have one, but cannot get anymore from the same source. The one I have is a funky looking white rooster with a red comb topping his head. He sings the "Chicken Dance" song while gyrating. Where can I find more? Thanks, Jack.

STUFFED COLORED CLOWN - BY EDEN TOYS
I am looking for a primary colored stuffed clown that was sold in the early 1990's. Eden Toys made it. My son's is falling apart and I would like to get a new one. I have checked with the company, and they couldn't help me. It has a blue body, red feet and is made out of terry cloth. Joy.

SUBBETEO - BRITISH GAME
Hello, I'm trying to get my son away from the fast pace mindless video games. I used to play a British game called Subbuteo. It was a table soccer game. However, I'm having extreme trouble finding it in North America. I'm looking for a distributor (wholesaler) for the equipment, if you could assist I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks.

SUBMARINE
I am trying to find a remote control submarine for a nine year old boy. Can you direct me?

SUPER ELASTIC BUBBLE PLASTIC
I grew up in the 1970's and we played with Super Elastic Bubble Plastic. Does this still exist? What was it made of? Gary.

SUPER ELASTIC BUBBLE PLASTIC - RESPONSE
I grew up in the 1970's and despite the supposed toxicity of Super Elastic Bubble Plastic, I remember playing with it. I have been looking for something similar. I have heard that Tootsie Toys/Strombecker in Chicago makes a product called Blo-loon. Is this true? Does anyone else make a similar product? Thanks, Skippy.

SUPERBIRD TOY
I am looking for a toy from the 1970's called "Superbird." It was a plastic bird that would walk up a wall on four or five revolving suction cups on its underside. I think you had to pull a string to get it going. Thank you. Edzo.

T.O.Y.S INTERNATIONAL
I am looking for the number of a toy company called T.O.Y.S. International out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. I am missing the instruction sheets that were supposed to be included with a puzzle. The other boxes at the store where I bought it were also missing instructions. Deb.

TALKING BUBBA BEAR
I have a Bubba Bear, stuffed animal, which once talked, but is now sick. He no longer talks, and I want to have him repaired. This is the model # P976240, Bubba, 1997, TYCO. I live in Maryland, USA. The bear was given to me during a recuperative period, so it is special to me.

TALKING MICKEY MOUSE - BATTERY COVER NEEDED
Where can I buy a replacement battery cover for our Talking Mickey Mouse by Worlds of Wonder? Gina.

TALKING PARROT
I have been trying to locate a toy I saw a few years ago. It was a parrot that answered back when you talked to it. I have been trying to locate who makes or carries it. Thanks, Glenn

TALKING PARROT
What company manufacturers talking lifelike parrots? Time is of the essence. Patrick

TALKING TOY
I have been attempting to find this interactive board type talking toy. All the big toy stores have no idea what I'm referring to. I purchased two: Mother Goose and a counting type one, a few years back. They are wonderful long-lasting toys that children do not lose interest in quickly. The two my grandchildren have are still going strong with just one battery change on the Mother Goose. Can you see if they are still being made and who sells them? Thanks, Pat.

TEA SET - VINTAGE
I am looking for a child's tea set made in the 1920's by Royal Rudolstadt. The pattern is of various chunky children playing, and therefore, the pattern is called Happifats. My mom had this set as a child and only one piece survived. I would like very much to be able to give her a complete set.

TECHNOLOGY
I am doing a project for school, and would like to find information from toy companies. I specifically need information on their past and present research on toys, and how toys teach technology to children. Any kind of survey or experiment on children's response to toys would be suffice. Also, information on history of toys and how companies modeled their toys after changing technology.

TEDDY BEAR
I own a red stuffed teddy bear with a human looking plastic face. I think it is from the 1950's or 1960's. I bought it at a rummage sale. The boy/bear is crying. Do you have any information about this toy? Pamela.

TEDDY BEAR - JUMO-SIZED
I need a jumbo teddy bear for a friend, no smaller than three feet high. Do you know any online places to order one?

TEDDY BEAR - JUMO-SIZED - REPSONSE
Try Applause and Commonwealth.

TEDDY BEAR - MY FIRST TEDDY
My eight year old son had a teddy bear that his four year old sister fell in love with. The bear was lost in summer 1999. My daughter still asks for it. I think Fisher Price or Playskool made it. It's name was "My First Teddy". Where may I find another?

TEDDY BEAR - RECORDABLE
I wanted to record my voice on a recordable teddy bear. There was one at Spencer's gifts for $35, but I thought that too expensive. Where may I find one for less?

TEDDY BEAR SEAMTRESSES WANTED
I am looking for someone who can make a teddy bear from a mink stole. I would like the bear to be eight to ten inches high. Grace.

TEDDY BEARS - MICHTOM
I am the creative director of the annual wall calendar for BRIC (Brooklyn information & Culture). I am trying to locate a photograph of the original Michtom teddy bear. Can you help? Madeline.

TEDDY RUXPIN - NEW VERSION
I cannot find the new Teddy Ruxpin. I believe it is called Teddy III. It has several cassettes that can be played. My niece desperately wants this for Christmas! Thanks, Desperate Uncle.

TEDDY RUXPIN - YES! VERSION - 1
I am looking for tapes and books for the New Teddy Ruxpin. This Teddy Ruxpin was manufactured by Yes. Todd.

TEDDY RUXPIN - YES! VERSION - 2
I bought one of the toys you selected in 1998 the Teddy Ruxpin doll made by YES!. I have been trying to find some of the accompanying books and cassettes for the doll, but no toy store seems to have them. I have tried to call the 800 number listed on your web site (and on the doll's box), but there is a message saying that I have dialed incorrectly. The operator is not able to locate another number. Could you please let me know if there is another way to reach the manufacturer, or if, as I fear, it's gone out of business? If it has gone out of business, do you know how I could locate some of the cassettes for the YES! version of Teddy? There are things available via auction on the NET, but they are for the older version made by another manufacturer.

TEDDY RUXPIN - YES! VERSION - 3
I purchased a Teddy Ruxpin, and haven't been able to find the accessories that go with him. I tried the YES! web page and their phone number. I had no luck with either one. Could you please tell me where I might get these items? Thank you, B. Hessong.

TEDDY RUXPIN - YES! VERSION - 4
I am looking for tapes and books for the New Teddy Ruxpin by Yes. Todd.

TEDDY RUXPIN - YES! VERSION - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
Yes! is out of business. We will post on Ask Dr. Toy in case someone knows how to get what you need.

TEDDY RUXPIN AUDIO TAPE
I am looking for audio tapes for Teddy Ruxpin, the talking bear which is no longer made. Where can I find resources for my son's favorite toy? Thanks, Kathy.

TENT
I am looking for a gift for my. It is a tent for kids that has a sheet built onto the bottom so that it can hook onto their beds. I had one when I was a kid and I loved it. Someone told me they saw one the other day but couldn't remember where. Buck.

TENT - RESPONSE
The Dr. Toy website has a link to a manufacturer of similar items www Playhut.com. They make them in colorful solid colors or as a school bus!

TERRY CLOTH ORANGE DOG - PLAYSKOOL
I want to buy a toy dog that I believe is called Filmore. He was made by Playskool in the late 1970's or early 1980's. He is a large orange terry cloth dog wearing a green collar. He is filled with small Styrofoam balls.

3D VIEWFINDER
I bought a 3D "Viewfinder" at a Chicago toy store in 1998. It was made by 3D Vision Internationale, Inc. I have a "Great America 1" film, and I would like to buy others in the series. Thanks, Vicki.

THUMBLENLINA - WIND-UP
We have a wind-up Thumblelina that is missing the knob for winding it up. Where can we find a replacement?

TIN TOY - JIMMY THE ACROBAT - VALUE
Where can I find information about Arnold's "Jimmy the Acrobat Clown?" It is a German mechanical tin toy. Lesley.

TINKER TOY SET
I have a Tinker Toy set: GRAD #146 Copyright 1965, 183 pieces. It is in its original cylindrical cardboard container with metal screw on lid and is complete with original instruction booklet. The container and pieces are in excellent condition. Could you tell me, what they would be worth and where I would sell them?

TINKER TOYS - 1
I am looking for the old fashioned Playskool Tinker Toys - colored wood dowels that fit into round wooden pieces and plastic joiner pieces, sails, etc. My son loves these, but I only have a small amount and can't find them anywhere. They come in a white canister in different size sets. I have found similar toys but they are not compatible size-wise, (even the new all plastic Tinker Toys are not compatible). Any idea where I could purchase used a used set or two?

TINKER TOYS - 2
I have been looking everywhere for Tinker Toys for my son. I found the new plastic kind at Toys R Us, but perhaps you could tell me where I might find the original wood kind that I loved when I was a kid? I live in Florida.

TINKER TOYS - 3
I was wondering if Tinker Toys are still on the market and where can I buy them, either in a store or on the Internet. Thanks. Elektra.

TINKER TOYS - 4
I am trying to locate Playskool Tinker Toy construction sets. Our local stores aren't selling any now. I tried the automated response on your site but there was no answer. Thank you for any help!

TINKER TOYS - 5
My husband and I are teaching a parenting course called REDIRECTING CHILDREN'S BEHAVIOR. We are in need of Tinker Toys. We've called Target, K-Mart, Toys R Us, Kay Bee Toys and other toy stores, only to be told that it is no longer being carried. Do you know a source?

TINKER TOYS - 6
I have looked everywhere for Tinker Toys. They were made out of plastic and popular in the 1970's. I cannot find any mention of them, save a few people extolling their virtues on Usenet, Ebay, Ask Jeeves. Michael.

TINKER TOYS - 7
I am searching for the plastic Tinker Toys made by Playskool. My four-year old does not like the wooden ones made by Fiddlestix. Where can I find these?

TINKER TOYS - 8
Where can I find Tinkertoys? Joseph.

TINKER TOYS - GIANT - 1
During the late 1970's, I remember building houses about 7' tall with Giant Tinker Toys. My parents sold mine in a yard sale. I have searched online auction sites, but cannot find them. They are probably worth a small fortune by now. Where can I find them and what is their value? KidAtHeart.

TINKER TOYS - GIANT - 2
Where can I find Giant Tinker Toys? Do you know who made them and when? Thanks, Pamela.

TINKER TOYS - PLASTIC - DINOSAUR SET
I am looking for the plastic Tinker Toy set that makes dinosaurs. Can you help?

TINKER TOYS - WOODEN - RESPONSE
I can help people looking for wooden Tinker Toys sets. I did a web browse for Tinker Toys and found a few different suppliers for the wooden ones.

TOBIN TOYS
Can you tell me how to contact Tobin toys? I need a phone number or at least an address. Thank you, Debra.

TODDLER PLAY UNIT
Where can I find a play unit suitable for a toddler, which has locking doors and keys that open them?

TOMORROWLAND ROCKET - by Disney, Wen-Mac/AMF
Hi, I came across your site as I was trying to find information on a toy I have had since the early 1960's. My parents bought this for me but I am not sure what year. This is what it is called on the box: Walt Disney's Tomorrowland Rocket Ride by Wen-Mac/AMF. Do you have any knowledge of this toy? If so, I would be interested in that, or where you might think I could learn more about it. Thanks.

TONY THE PONY - VALUE
We have a Tony the Pony from the mid 1960's. Where I can get it appraised, or find more information about it? Carol.

TOOL SETS - PLAYSKOOL COOL TOOLS
I am trying to find out if Playskool (or Hasbro) makes miniature shop tools such as the garden tools they manufactured as Cool Tool Lawn and Garden.

TOOTSIE TOYS - LAND ROVER
How would I find out information about this the Tootsie Toy Land Rover. It was bought in the mid 1960's. Any information you could give me would be appreciated. Thank you. B. Mansell

TOY - DEOBLOE
I am looking for a toy called a Deobloe. Where I can find it? Eileen.

TOY - DONATIONS
I am the president of a rescue squad in Trenton, New Jersey. I am looking for a toy distributor in New Jersey or New York who we can purchase a large quantity of Christmas toys from. The toys will be donated to the children of the Catholic Youth Organization in Mercer County. The trustees of this organization would like to present new gifts, rather than to see the children receive used gifts. We have $2500-$3000 to spend. If a company would like to donate anything over and above those figures, that would be greatly appreciated. What companies might be interested in dealing with us? Thank you for your time, Bruce.

TOY - IMPORTS
I heard that in order to import stuffed toys into the USA one must obtain a PA#. I believe PA stands for Pennsylvania, the rest, I don't know.

TOY - IMPORTS - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
Yes, PA is Pennsylvania. While I don't know all the details, I know that all the plush (and other things that are stuffed, like pillows, etc.) manufacturers have a registration from Pennsylvania. It is probably a requirement in that state to have it, and since they sell to all states, they need to have it. It is also possible that by having it from PA, a manufacturer then meets requirements in all states.

TOY - LAUGHS AND SHAKES
Where can I find this stuffed toy? It laughs and shakes, like Tickle Me Elmo? Thank you.

TOY - SALES - 1957
What was the biggest selling toy of 1957? Thanks, Phillip.

TOY AND GAME COURSES/WORKSHOPS
I would like information about toy and game courses and workshops around the world and on the net. Thank you, Lea.

TOY by AMIGO and/or PROWELL
I have a question, unfortunately about a bad toy, not a good one. My sister-in-law has been trying to locate a toy manufacturer that she purchased a product from. We both have children, and we were taken aback when we discovered vulgar language on the toy's packaging. Of course there is no address or recognizable company name on it. Can you help us? One wording on it says: Patent by AMIGO, another says: Patent by PROWELL. Thank you!

TOY CATALOGS
In August 2000 we are opening an early childhood learning center (ages 1-6) in Tampico, Mexico. We do not have internet access at the center, nor at our houses, so this makes it very expensive to browse through online catalogs. How can we get offline catalogs? Mabel.

TOY CHEST - INFANT
I am looking for a soft toy chest for my infant. I would prefer one without a lid so that he can get his own toys when he is able. I can't find one anywhere, Kevin.

TOY CLEANING
I am expecting my first baby. I will like to know how to clean toys for my baby. Avani.

TOY CLEANING - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
Clorox diluted works well for washable products if needed or for plastic products. Cold water soap for soft animals would work well.

TOY COLLECTIBLES - REAL OR FAKE
What tricks are there to spot toy collectible fakes? I know there is a way to spot fake GI Joes, and I would like to know what it is. Are there tricks to spotting other toy fakes? Thank you, Gretchen, Toy Town Museum.

TOY COMPANY CONTACT INFORMATION
I'm an Italian communication engineer fond of strategy and board games. I am particularly attracted by mental challenges and social interactions. Recently I applied myself to creating a new original board game. It received unexpected success in my play test group. It has an interesting plot, and the right mix of chance and strategy. After the final revision I began I began approaching to games manufacturers online. However this has been discouraging, as they usually refuse contact with inventors. Can you suggest references, contacts, or publishers? Gero.

TOY HISTORY
I am currently researching a project involving toys and constructing a toy. Do you information on the history of toys?

TOY HISTORY - JACKS
I am looking for historical information about the game of jacks. Danielle, Pacific Plastic Technology

TOY HISTORY - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
See my new book Toys For a Lifetime. Also, our web site has some toy history. You can always check your library for more information.

TOY IRON
I am frantic. I have searched and searched for a child's toy iron on the Internet. I did find one, but lost connection. It was a plastic replica of a steam iron that sprayed water and operated on batteries. It cost about $10. Can you help me? Thanks much.

TOY MANUFACTURING
Can you send me some information on toy manufacturing?

TOY MARK
Who sells toys by the company Toy Mark? Thanks.

TOY MARKET - CANADIAN
I am researching the Canadian toy market for a British based toy company. I would like details about the Canadian toy market and consumer behavior. This will help promote bilateral relationship between Canada and Britain. Thanks very much, Ingrid.

TOY SAFETY FOR 1-3 YEARS OLD
I am doing a research project for my high school in London, England about the safety of toys for one to three year olds. I would like to know if there was a vote for the safest toys. If so, could you send me the results? Stefanie.

TOY SOLDIER - HISTORY OF:
What is the history of the toy soldier? Please, give me any information on this topic. Thanks, Liz.

TOY STORAGE NETS
I have stuffed animals that I'd like to put in a net attached to a wall in my bedroom, but I'm having difficulty locating a simple toy net. Thank you, Kristan.

TOY STORY - Action Figures
I am writing you to see if you know where I can get good old-fashioned army men, like those in Disney's Toy Story? Also, not just American soldiers, but German soldiers, and/or other nationalities. Do you know of any toy makers still producing them? Thank you for your time.

TOY STORY 2 - JESSE DOLL
Please, give us any information on where I could purchase a Jesse doll from Toy Story 2. Ron and Patricia.

TOY STORY 2 - JESSE DOLL - RESPONSE - 1
I emailed Disney about this non-existent toy. They claim Mattel makes one. I couldn't find it on the Mattel site. I plan to email Mattel to find out if this is so, what Jesse looks like, and how to get one. Others might try the same. Val and Pat.

TOY STORY 2 - JESSE DOLL - RESPONSE - 2
I purchased a Jesse Doll from Blockbuster Video! I had also been searching for one for some time.

TOY STORY 2 - MERCHANDISE
I want some of the movie promotional stuff I see at theaters for Toy Story 2, such as the appliqu?s or cutouts. I want them to decorate my child's room. Do you know where I can get them? I don't want just the movie posters that I have seen at stores. Thanks.

TOY VACUUM CLEANER
Where can I find a toy vacuum cleaner that really picks up dirt and is also durable? We have gone through ten Dirt Devil play vacuums. Nakita.

TOY WEAPON - BRADLEY'S MACHINE GUN
I emailed you about a toy gun from Milton Bradley called Bradley's Machine Gun Big Dick. It's a rear crank machine gun using a belt fed loader which you put the bullets in. I emailed you about this product looking for any information; since you're DR TOY, I figured you might have some insight as to its history. You said that you never heard of Milton Bradley making a machine gun, since they make board games. I went to the Antique Roadshow in Toronto in August and the toy guy there, said he has never heard of it either, but was quite interested in it. He offered me some cash on the spot, but I said no. I figured if he was going to offer me as much as he did, then it must be worth something. He mentioned that if it were to go into a toy auction, there would probably be a biding war for it. But I am not interested in selling it; I just wanted some history about it. Thanks, John.

TOYS - ANCIENT
The doll is the oldest toy in the world, what is the second oldest? Any help would be appreciated.

TOYS - ANCIENT - RESOPNSE - DR. TOY
I would guess a wheeled cart of some kind, or a carved toy, or the yo yo, as these appear in Greek ruins. We will put this on Ask Dr. Toy and try to find out more.

TOYS - CONTROVERSIAL TOYS
What kind of controversy is there in the toy world? What kinds of toys are controversial? This is for a school report. Thank you, Kirsten.

TOYS - HISTORY OF
I need to know what the first toy ever invented was and who invented it. Thanks a lot.

TOYS - HISTORY OF - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
This is what I know, archeologists have turned up dolls from the earliest digs. I know the Yo-Yo goes way back in China. Also a Grecian bowl from 450 B.C. shows a Yo-Yo.

TOYS CREATED FROM SCRAP MATERIAL
I need information on how to make toys from scrap material. I am working on a project with children working and living on the streets in Ankara, Turkey. I would like the children to produce toys, both for themselves and their siblings and peers. Thank you, Nil.

TRACTOR AND WAGON RIDING TOY - EMPIRE TOYS
I am trying to locate the phone number of Empire in Taroboro, NC. They make a riding toy for kids. My son has one and has worn-out the tires, and I'd like to replace them. Also listed on the wagon is Carolina Enterprises, Inc., Tarboro, NC 27886. If you know anything about this, please e-mail me. Thank you.

TRACTORS - VALUE
I have some toy tractors which I was told are collectibles. Where can I find their worth? Thanks, Bob

TRAIN - KOO-KOO CHOO-CHOO
Where can I find a toy called "Koo-Koo Choo-Choo" Train? Thanks, Anne.

TRAIN - LIONEL
We have a Lionel Electric Train Outfit #1091W with 027 track. How old is this set, and what is it worth? It is in the original carton, and each car is in its original box. We have an engine, a coal car, a side loader, a caboose, and a freight car, though some cars need to be rewired. The paint is in excellent condition.

TRAIN - LIONEL - RESPONSE
Your local hobby or train shop should have Greenberg's Guide to Lionel Trains. This book will tell you the value of your trains. Before you try to sell them, realize that a dealer will give you about 25-35% of that value, since they sell them at guide prices. The best bet is to sell them privately to get the best price. Brad.

TRAIN - LIONEL TRAIN SET
In 1948, my father-in-law received a Lionel train Set #2026. It is still in its shipping box, and all the cars are in their original boxes. It is in mint condition. He hopes to pass it down to our children. How do you think it should be stored? Do methods exist to deter the aging process, or should it be allowed to age? Do you know what this item is worth? We never intend to sell them, but we are thinking about insuring them. Any advice you can offer will be appreciated, Mrs. Sivertsen.

TRAIN - LIONEL TRAIN SET - RESPONSE
Lionel's website is www.lionel.com.
Lionel's customer service number is on our website at Customer Service Numbers.
The California State Railroad Museum might also be of help.
There are train collector books at Amazon.Com.

TRAIN - MAR LINES UNION PACIFIC
I have a painted metal caboose with plastic wheels made before 1970. The company inscription says Mar Lines. The body is yellow, the top is brown, and the trim and lettering is orange. The lettering says Union Pacific 3824. It is in good condition, but not perfect. Is there any value to it? Steven.

TRAMPOLINE
Where can we find a child's trampoline that is low to the ground? Thank you, Steve.

TRAMPOLINE - REPLACEMENT PARTS
I have a twelve foot trampoline. The rings and loops that hold it to the frame have torn away. And there is a small hole in its jumping surface. Who sells replacement parts? Ann.

TRANSFORMERS - VALUES
I would like to know how much a toy I have is worth. It is an action figure--a Transformer. It is still in its packaging. It was when the Transformers did not transform, only their weapons. It is an official Transformer?

TREEHOUSE
I am trying to find a toy from the late 1970's. It is a treehouse that popped up revealing an interior. Inside the trunk was an elevator. It had a swing. There was a cute little family and a dog. Please, let me know if you have more information.

TROLLEY
I am looking for a trolley system that you connect to two trees which allows you to slide the trolley between the two ends. I am looking for one large enough to sit on. Thank you for your help, Jason.

TRUCK
I want to find the name of a truck made in the late 1970's or early 1980's. It had about ten wheels and was linked like a centipede. It had a big rig body in the middle. Abe.

TRUCK - BUDDY L
Is the Buddy L Corporation still in business? If so where are they located and how can I get in touch with them? If not, do you know if parts can be bought to repair vintage Buddy L trucks? Thank you.

TRUCK - BUDDY L
I have a 1992 Buddy L Good Year Voice Command Semi-Trailer with a Good Year racing car. The truck is twenty-three inches long and made of blue plastic. On voice command its lights blink, its horn blows, its engine turns on, and it actually moves. I would like to know the value of it. The truck is in very good condition with all stickers intact. There are a few scratches on the bed of the trailer where the racecar sits. Thank you, Candy.

TRUCK - BUDDY L - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
Buddy L was a great company with outstanding products, but is sadly long gone.

TRUCK - BUDDY L TRUCKS
I am interested in finding out the value, or if there is a market, for Buddy L Trucks?

TRUCK - BUDDY L TRUCKS - Texaco Fire Truck
Recently a friend gave me a fire truck for my grandson. It is a Texaco Fire Truck made by Buddy L. The box has never been opened and other than some discoloration, it is in perfect condition. The box has a picture of a fire truck with the name Texaco Fire Chief. The box is about two feet long. The contents are described as: Actual scale model made of heavy steel. Real siren and bell. Real water deluge gun (operates on direct feed from garden hose). Real extension ladder with hoses. The end of the box has One 5741, which I assume is the model number. This is the original box and has never been opened. The guy that gave it to me said it is about thirty years old. I would appreciate any help you could give me. The address of the manufacturer is Buddy L, East Moline, IL. A response to several e-mails indicated that this truck was made in 1960. Would you have any idea what this would be worth?

TRUCK - ERTL - TRANSTAR
I have a metal dump truck. It is an ERTL Transtar, iccmc-72126 PSC MO T2165. What is its value? Thanks, MSorge.

TRUCK - GARBAGE TRUCK - 1
I am looking for a toy garbage truck for my grandson. He is very interested in such an item and always wants to watch the garbage pickup. I have only found one that is hand crafted out of wood for $110 plus $12.95 shipping. I'm looking for something more reasonably prices.

TRUCK - GARBAGE TRUCK - 2
I am looking for someone who sells toy garbage trucks. Do you have any suggestions.

TRUCK - GARBAGE TRUCK - RESPONSE
I can supply you with 1/87 (HO) scale garbage trucks. Brad.

TRUCK - ICE CREAM
Where can I find a toy ice cream truck? My godson is crazy about ice cream trucks. Nancy.

TRUCK - NIKKO - RED HUMMER
My son's new truck was run over by a real truck. The whole front end was destroyed. Can it be repaired, or do I have to buy a new truck? It was a red Hummer by Nikko toys, serial number 14181A.

TRUCK - PICKUP TRUCK MODEL OR TOY
I am looking for a pickup truck model or toy, scale 1/6 or 1/7 or 1/8. I would like the body to be metal, but wood or plastic or composite will do.

TRUCK - PICKUP TRUCK MODEL OR TOY - RESPONSE
Contact Susie at evers@mwci.net. They carry a wide selection of diecast trucks in all scales. Brad.

TRUCK - SLIK TOY TRUCK - By Lansing
I found an old toy truck in the dirt at my house and it says it is an aluminum SLIK-TOYS manufactured by Lansing. Iowa Larry.

TRUCK - SNOWPLOW TRUCKS
I am interested in finding toy snowplow trucks. Any help would be appreciated.

TRUCK - STREET SWEEPER
I am looking for a street sweeper or street cleaner toy. I have not been able to find them.

TRUCK - STREET SWEEPER - RESPONSE - DR. TOY
Look at the Bruder site. I think they have them. Good luck.

TRUCK - VINTAGE
I have an old toy tow truck that was my father's. I think it is from the late 1940's or early 1950's. It has a logo on it that reads: MARS TOY CO., NEW YORK. If you could help me find out about it, I would appreciate it. Thank you, Michael.

TRUCK WITH CONTROL PANEL
I am looking for the name of a toy I saw advertised on television one night. It was a truck with a control panel in the bed of it with commands. The child hits the commands he wants the truck to perform. Do you know what the name of this particular toy is and were I can find it? Steve

TUNE-A-VISION
I am searching for a toy called TUNE A VISION. It was made of cardboard with wooden knobs. The knobs allowed you to rotate the face, eyes, nose, mouth, hat, ears, etc. I'm pretty sure it was Ideal Toys that made it.

TYCO U.S. TRUCKING 1 RACE SET
I am trying to locate a TYCO Trucking Race Set and Accessories. Thank you.

UNDERDOG HAT
Where can I find an Underdog hat? I got one in 1998 at a Suncoast Video Store. It was a gift with sentimental value, but it is nearly worn out. Can you help me find another?

UP & AWAY HAMMOCK (BABY BUDDIES)
Where can I buy the Up & Away Hammock made by Baby Buddies, or a similar product, in the United Kingdom? I want to store my children's teddies in one. Paul.


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