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       #Post#: 949--------------------------------------------------
       Basic Lionel Repair
       By: Streetview Date: January 7, 2015, 12:36 am
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       Hi, I am new to the forum and somewhat new to Lionel, even
       though I have had many HO layouts as a kid and a decent amount
       of MTH around the Christmas tree for my kids.  I purchased a 244
       Scout on EBay, knowing that it had some issues, but I figured it
       was a good start for learning the lionel repair hobby. There are
       three problems that I need to fix, and I would really appreciate
       some advice.  First, the two screws that hold the plastic shell
       on from underneath the front of the engine have stripped out the
       threads in the plastic shell.  Is there any way to secure these
       critical screws, or is there a way to use oversized screws, or
       do I need to order a replacement body if that's even possible?
       Second, even though the motor runs strong, it makes a somewhat
       loud hum/buzz when attempting to run the engine at low speed.  I
       oiled it up and it improved, but is there some additional
       lubrication or maintenance I should try?  And finally, the rear
       hook that attaches to the tender is about to snap off due to too
       many bends that have made the metal brittle.  Is there any way
       to buy a replacement linkage?  I would appreciate any advice, as
       I am willing to listen and learn.  Thank you
       #Post#: 952--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Basic Lionel Repair
       By: TrainLarry Date: January 7, 2015, 12:51 pm
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       Welcome to the forum!
       For the stripped screws, you can try wrapping some plumbers'
       Teflon tape around the threads to build them up enough that they
       will hold.
       The second not so easy option would be to fill in the holes in
       the shell with epoxy, and drill the holes again. The screws are
       #6 self tapping, fillister head. Lining up the drill properly
       centered to drill the holes is the hard part.
       The next option would be to drill the holes oversize, and use #8
       screws, but only if there is enough material to do so.
       The hum/buzz you hear may be the e-unit coil. If it is, there is
       not much that can be done to silence it. The hum/buzz of e-units
       is part of the charm of older Lionel locomotives.
       The motor can be dis-assembled and the brushes, brushplate,
       copper commutator and brush springs all cleaned with hardware
       store naphtha. Reassemble the motor and lightly oil both ends of
       the armature shaft. Oil the wheel axle bearings, and grease the
       gears lightly. Clean the wheels and roller pickups with the
       naphtha also.
       The rear truck with the drawbar can be replaced as a unit.
       Brasseurs has it, part #1130-20.
  HTML http://www.brasseurelectrictrains.com/service/lionel/720to1600.php
  HTML http://www.brasseurelectrictrains.com/service/lionel/720to1600.php
       Larry
       #Post#: 958--------------------------------------------------
       Re: Basic Lionel Repair
       By: Streetview Date: January 10, 2015, 11:46 am
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       Thanks so much, I'll start with the Teflon tape and then ask my
       neighbor who has a drill press to help me fix it right. Thank
       you again!
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