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1947 Vintage Lionel Train
Chris asks:
“We believe our Lionel train is a 1947 vintage train set. Our power source works. The lights come on the locomotive and the caboose. The train went around twice and then stopped. We can tell the engine is engaged and makes somewhat of a growling sound, but it won’t go forward or backward. We have checked the tracks and they are intact. Any suggestions?”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
Sounds like something is either broken or jammed inside the locomotive. It will need to be opened up and inspected inside. If you are not mechanically minded, ask for help at your local model railroad club.
Frank is on the right track, but check whether the rods connecting the drivings wheels (steam outline loco) are properly squared and the pins fully engaged first. Sloppy con rods are a regular cause of growling recalcitrant steam locos.
There are many things to consider for that vintage locomotive. The grease usually hardens or becomes gummy. A good cleaning and re-lubricating should be done. Also, the track and wheels should be thoroughly cleaned. Inside of the Lionel engine, is an “E” unit, that controls the direction, and idol of the engine. Those can become sticky and corroded over time, it may need to have the contacts cleaned. If your engine hits a dead spot on the tracks, the E unit will toggle and go into neutral or stall.