I have an American Flyer 303 4-4-2 Atlantic with reverse unit problems. It doesn't always work, and you have to sorta hit the top of the tender for it to work. Can someone help?
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Welcome to the world of American Flyer!
Seriously, if you can usually get your reverse unit to cycle with a "tap", it may just be a bit sticky/gunky from sitting for extended periods. In such cases my first attempt is to expose the reverse unit (4 screws on the bottom of a 303 tender) and hit it lightly with something like Radio Shack TV tuner cleaner. Nine times out of ten his will free up a sticky unit and restore good operation. Be sparing with the spray and wipe any excess or drips with a cloth or paper towel being careful not to leave lint behind.
If the unit is still balky, some parts may be warn or out of adjustment. A simple rebuild may be required. Port Lines and other suppliers have inexpensive replacement parts, typically just the "fingers" or maybe the "drum". Port Lines has some repair tips here.
Also, YouTube has a video by Tom Barker with some repair tips starting with the reverse unit.
Thanks!
