726RR problem

Get the correct parts. Are the nubs that seat into the wheel still on the crank? 

jim pastorius posted:

I hate to use Loctite in case I have to take it apart or don't quarter it correctly.  Any thoughts ??

Loctite isn't limited only to the red, "permanent" stuff that would require heat to soften it.

 Loctite also comes in lower-strength grades which can keep screws/bolts from backing out yet removable using hand tools.  Blue (medium) or purple (low-medium) Loctite should work fine.

I always use clear fingernail polish on the threads. Easy to find, easy to use, holds the screw tightly, but not too tightly to remove easily.

I have used good old Testers plastic model glue to help secure screws in holes that have worn out threads. The screw will back out when required.

Richar

agreed on the Loctite, different strengths. never thought about the fingernail polish, will have to remember that.

I worked on it today and will see what happens. I use a clear  plastic cement in a tube made by DUCO. Really amazing stuff. I have used it on metal so I tried a dab of that after cleaning it good. We have a Greenberg show in July and maybe I can pick up the parts I need.

Like Stew asked, are both nubs there on the crank, or is 1 or both broken off? There is also a special formed external lock washer for the purpose of not letting the screw back out. I have both if needed.

No nubs, no lock washer.  How about an original screw ??  There is a spacer in there too. How much ??  I can send you a postal money order for it.  I would like to bring it back to original.  Thanks.  My e-mail is panzerjames@gmail.com.

Be careful with Duco.  It damages plastic.

RoyBoy posted:

I always use clear fingernail polish on the threads. Easy to find, easy to use, holds the screw tightly, but not too tightly to remove easily.

This - inexpensive, works great, screws are easily backed out if necessary (great for those pesky screws in eyeglasses, too).

Get the correct parts and fix this correctly - it's survived this long, and will live on another 50 years with corrective repairs and maintenance.

I agree. I should have done it long ago.

Email me your mailing address and I'll mail the parts off tomorrow. My email in profile.

Regarding the lock washer:

I keep some of the special dished lock washers on hand.

Still, I have not seen many postwar 726RR or 736 Berkshires that had them. (Certainly some do).
The 1951 explosion diagram of the rod assembly does not show them, and I do not see them in the 736 parts list that Olsen's has in their library.
However, the 726 (1952) listing does include them. 

Nothing particularly important here. But I find it interesting. 

I have the K Line reprint of the Lionel manual that I bought a long time ago. The drawing doesn't show any lock washer. I don't want to take apart my 736, runs too good !! I noticed my 2056 and 646 use the same boiler but different motors and only 6 drivers. The  side rods, etc are shorter but same basic design. The 646, especially, is a nice runner. yes, it is all interesting.