WOW! GREAT, GREAT work creating those. And what a truly pleasant video to watch that you created.
thanks for contributing that.
- walt
Walt, thank you for all your fine work and enthusiasm for the hobby!!!!
Over the years I learned a lot about the Lionel handcars. If anyone is having an issue with traction with the Lionel handcars, check to see if the lower frame is twisted where the wheel with the traction tire rides higher than the rest. Since the frame takes a "set" after 30+ years, it's a simple fix to just add a thicker traction tire or double up on the regular tire (you may have to shave off a fraction of an inch of the fake break shoe on the body, if a thicker tire doesn't clear it). Also, running them on filtered DC makes for smooth operation. Keep wheels a rail clean. You can add an electrolytic cap as an "electronic flywheel.'
What I found is that non-train people (those who otherwise don't care much about trains) love the handcars. Lionel should partner with with Hallmark and make these products for Halloween and Christmas. Think of the other products they could sell, like dump cars and illuminated Fastrack.
Take care, Joe.