GG1 Vision Line 6-82749 for example...

It's a vision line product. Lionel' s past track record is that they do not post parts until after the warranty. They want the vision line engines to come in for repair. If you call/email Dean in customer service he may send you the parts now. He is great with helping people. My son's vision big boy had one running light out. I had to contact Mike Regan directly to get the part since Lionel wanted to do the repair. Like you I did not want to risk damage sending it in for a minor repair. I got the part, installed it and happy I did not have to ship it out.

Yep. They'll post it after the warranty period is up. 

I would do what the others suggested, email them and explain what you need and that you do not want to risk further damage in shipping.  Hopefully they will send you the needed parts.     Mike the Aspie

It never hurts to ask. I agree send Dean an email. 

I emailed Lionel, so we’ll see. If they stick to their procedure, that’s ok. I’ll just have to wait another year.