The Lionel 53 runs great until I attach the side rods. The pictures show the rods not aligning. Any suggestions?
Attachments
Images (2)
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Wheels are out of quarter. Does the other side line up? If not, the wheel slipped on the axle. If other side is misaligned the same amount, then the gear on the drive wheel skipped on the idler due to too much side play or a worn gear. If the wheel slipped on the axle, pull it, make some cuts in it using a pair of strong linesman pliers, then press the wheel back on quartered properly.
Do you have a proper wheel puller and an arbor press to do that job right? If not, consider sending it to a reliable service dept like Hennings, a forum sponsor. Pulling wheels and repressing is difficult without the proper tools! GOOD LUCK! :-)
Hennings also has some replacement gears should that be the problem.
Wheels look to be out of quarter. I think those old U frame motors only have one drive gear. Like above, if you don't have the equipment and skill to remove / press on wheels, take it to someone who can. Plus your drive rods are upside down. The little nubs on the ends of drive rods go 'up'.
Thanks for all your help. I'll let you know how it turns out. Lenny
