I just rebuilt a American Flyer Atlantic from parts and old junkers that I bought at train shows. It is (now) a 307 4-4-2. My question is how much play is there supposed to be in the motor. I followed the parts diagrams and I used only one shim/thrust washer on the motor. Is it normal for the armature to be able to move back and forth somewhat? Or is the armature needing more spacers so that it can not move.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I just rebuilt a American Flyer Atlantic from parts and old junkers that I bought at train shows. It is (now) a 307 4-4-2. My question is how much play is there supposed to be in the motor. I followed the parts diagrams and I used only one shim/thrust washer on the motor. Is it normal for the armature to be able to move back and forth somewhat? Or is the armature needing more spacers so that it can not move.
I shim them at the worm end to try and get as minimal amount of end float as possible. If you have the correct armature and brush cap this will be fine as the commutator will not touch the brush tubes. This keeps the maximum amount of brush tension to the amature as well. If you have the wrong armature/ brush cap combination then you may find the armature will touch the brush tubes.
Parts XA11077 (armature) and XA9565A (brush bracket assy) Just like the parts diagram shows for a 303 locomotive. I see that Port Lines sells several different thickness of the part.
It is quite normal to have some play with the armature in these motors. If the play is all taken out the armature will bind and thus you will not have a good operating locomotive, and you may burn it out. My advice is to try running with the shell off to see the motor operate and watch to make sure you have the clearance you need. If you have the correct parts as you describe you will be fine.
Ray
It most certainly is. I have yet to encounter an AF (or post-war Lionel,for that matter) engine that couldn't be revived with just a minimum of work and parts; these things were really built to last.
I seem to recall I've added an additional thin washer or two at times to eliminate some of the play. I believe as long as there is some play,you'll be ok; too much play will result in excessive sparking across the commutator, I think...
Mark in Oregon
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
