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Why Does My Train Only Run In Reverse?

Warren asks readers:

“I have a Lionel engine with 8604 on side. It has been boxed for 15 years. It will only run in reverse and there are no switches on the engine anywhere. I think we used to change directions by moving the voltage regulator to off and then back on but that does nothing now. It just runs in reverse. Why would this be?”

2 Responses to Why Does My Train Only Run In Reverse?

  • W Rusty Lane says:

    Your e-unit is probably bad. Two of my Lionel engines won’t run and one only runs backwards. I talked to a Lionel expert and he told me the e-units would have to be replaced. So I just park them on a siding and probably will never get them fixed. Parts for the old engines are hard to find these days.

  • Mike allen says:

    Is there what appears to be a lever in a slot on the top of the boiler? It can lock the engine into one direction. If it’s there, try moving it to the opposite side of the slot. good luck!

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