Ask if it goes into neutral. If not, then it's probably fine and just locked in forward. If it does, then there may be some mechanical issue with it. If you really like the color, have you looked for one in a newer locomotive (Read in PS2/3.)? If one wasn't made, you can always get the same locomotive in a PS-2/3 and swap the body. MTH hasn't changed much in the bodies over the years, just the guys.