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I have an older Life-Like F7 unit that will not run. However, I have discovered that if I squeeze both sides of the pancake motor with my fingers the engine will operate. Once I let go it will stop dead with the light on. Is there anyway to fix this, or should I turn it into a dummy engine?
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Without photos, this is only a guess.
I would look for worn out brushes, bad connections in wiring or weak motor magnets.
Also motor shaft could be sticking in bearings, needing cleaning and new oil.
Donor F7s can be found on ebay, cheap.
Pancake motors are junk but your problem sounds like a loose wire. Take the body off and check for loose connections.
Dave
Here are some photos. Thank you all for your suggestions and information!
There are no visible loose connections.
Update: Locomotive was running great...now it is making a horrible grinding noise. Is the motor about to burn out?
Most likely cause is burnt out brush springs. You used to be able to buy brush and brush spring kits from Bachmann for those motors, but not sure now. The noise is most likely coming from the brass bearing on the front and rear of the armature. One light drop of oil should do it.
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