I have a 345 culvert unloader that I purchased recently. I had to adjust the position of the string so it would match the diagram in the old instruction manual. It operates well until the carriage reaches the end where it is supposed to let go of the culvert. When it gets to that end, the mechanism binds. It almost seems as though the string is too short. I have enclosed some photos. The first photo shows how the carriage hits the pulley where the magnet lets go of the culvert.
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I agree; your string is too short. The attached doesn't specifically address your issue but it explains the need for refinement and proper string length.
Brian Olson posted:I agree; your string is too short. The attached doesn't specifically address your issue but it explains the need for refinement and proper string length.
Thanks Brian. I have a spool of braided fishing line that is about the same diameter as the existing string on the 345. I think I will experiment with it to see if I can get satisfactory results.
I had some time tonight to play with the unloader. After I put my magnifying glasses on, I actually was able to untie the knot in the string, see photo. I adjusted it so the knot has less spare string. Maybe that wasn't an interesting task ! Now the 345 works like a charm.
Whoever came up with the vibrator motor has to be applauded. In most cases, with Lionel items that use the vibrator, it works well. What amazes me more is that I have a toy that is over 60 years old and still performs well.
This is the knot before adjusting it. Sorry, I neglected to take a shot after the fix.
If the above does't work. Check my post 12/07/20 (I mistakenly said #346 Culvert unloader I meant #345) I found the screw on the counter weight needed to be adjusted. Read that thread see if that helps.
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