Could This Old Train Work?

From looking at the photos, it looks to be wel worth restoring and sure someone on the forum could get it running.  If no one responds I have a name and phone number of good repairman in western Pa. Good luck !!  Awesome  little thing.

Nice pieces there! At first glance, the components seem to be in decent shape. Maybe there's enough track there for a figure-eight layout using that 90-degree crossing. Definitely worth looking into an operational restoration. I'd keep that lovely patina for a genuine working 113-year old layout, but that's just me.

Here's a 2 7/8" rundown from Joe Mania's site: http://www.jlmtrains.com/278text.htm

...and Jim Kelly-Evans' Tinplate Times: http://www.tinplatetimes.com/T...78%20Motor/motor.htm

Of course the train is your property to do with as you please.
If it were mine, I would get it in working order, and gently clean it.
I would not restore it, I think the piece is much more interesting with it's patina, scratches and all.
It's an over 100 year old toy that was played with. I would not expect it to look new.
If you want a new looking piece, might as well get a reproduction.
(Again, this is just my opinion)

You have great links provided by "Firewood".

JLM Trains does restorations.

Here is a YouTube video of a pair of Jail cars running.