397 Coal Loader Changing Belt?

Using the pictorial parts diagram, the shaft must be removed so the belt housing can be removed.  Comprehensive information is included in "Greenberg's Repair & Operating Manual for Lionel Trains".

The issue is that I can't get the cams off the shaft to pull it out.....

I replaced a belt years ago. The cam was stuck fast, I resorted to using Vise Grips and applied pressure which resulted in the cam shattering and pieces flying everywhere. So go purchase two replacement cams and than try it. On reassembly pay attention to the way the cams are placed on the shaft. Kind of a brute force fix but whatever works, works.

I have tried to pull them off with a pair of Channel Locks, but I was afraid to bend the shaft....changing the belt has turned into an all day cluster****.  I have spent hours looking at the Greenberg's Manual, but it only shows the schematic....not really much help.

Grady

I squeezed the "crap" out of one cam, destroying it in the process, but I had an replacement cam on hand. maybe heat from a propane torch to expand the cam, than lay the cam across a slightly open vise and tap the vertical shaft off. Whatever will work, but be safe.

IMHO, the last thing you want to do is squeeze the cam when it is stuck. It's been a while since I have taken a 397 apart. But I do recall that the last one did have the cams stuck on the shaft.

I'd suggest a few drops of Liquid Wrench (make certain its a fresh bottle). Give the stuff a chance to work. then some sharp taps to the side of the cam. I'd try to slide a 1/4 inch deep socket over the shaft, and rap the end of the socket. If you cannot fit the socket, try a small pin punch or the end of a flat bladed screwdriver.

Once you've freed the cam, it may just slide off.

I believe you only need to remove one cam to get the unit apart.

You may want to free the other while the shaft is out.

Regardless: Make certain the cam is installed the same way upon reassembly. If you put the cam in backwards the unit will jam. If you put the cam in out of phase, it won't work properly, and may jam.

(My older son prefers PB Blaster)

I have found that old Liquid Wrench looses it's effectiveness. I think the light solvent(s) must evaporate off.

I have replaced the belt on many loaders and never use any thing except  WD-40 on both cams. Spray it on using the long red extension to keep the solution  where you want it. Use extreme caution with heat here, as I have never had to esort to this.

The cams must be exactally right as does the shield at the top of the loader.

On the most stubborn I have used a pair of needle nose pliers on the shaft next to the cam and tap the cam with a small hammer, I have only done this a couple of times though.

Take your time and have patience, its cheaper in the long run..

Rod

Or you can cut the shaft in half and replace everything with new.