F3 and 6464 Screw questions

I'd call Mike at >mikestrainsandhobbies.com<

Mike knows everything.

The post war F3 engine uses 2 flat head tapping screws #6 x 1/2a Z in the rear, I think the front screw is a #4 x 3/8. These are flat head sheet metal type screws. I bought two bags from Fastenal company. What is a 6363? I have no idea what that is. If you meant 6464 type, I think it uses a 4 x 1/4 round head, standard thread like 4/40.

Rob

You are best off buying screws for these pieces from a parts dealer.

If you want them in bulk, try Ted the screw guy. He sets up in the orange hall, along the wall where all the entry doors are located.

He also sells mail order (not aware on any web site).

Currently Ted gets one dollar per dozen for plain, commonly used screws such as these. His shipping is currently a flat four dollars per order

The screws for Postwar Lionel F3's and 6464 boxcars are not common hardware that you will find in a hardware store.

As the original poster noted the F3 uses a flat head type "Z" screw, #4 by 3/8.

The original postwar 6464 boxcars used a Rec. flat head type "Z" screw #4 by 3/8.

The difference is in the design of the threads.

You probably could use common hardware store stuff, but risk damaging the threaded holes in which they go.

Also, the odds are that the screws you find will be plated. Ted's screws are black (where appropriate), as were most of the orginal screws Lionel used.

Here are Ted's descriptions to order by:

"6464 boxcar body mtg screw"

"F3 front cab mtg. Screw"

I've found that the LGB 69002 bag of 100 assorted screws is very handy, and seems to contain suitable screws for most O gauge use. I've used these to replace missing/rusty screws on quite a bit of my post-war stock.  They are nicely finished in black too.

NODY:

Your smiley has a witches hat.  Been sorted into Hogwarts yet?

Everybody:

Thanks for giving me guggestions which will not "screw" me up!