Lionel 8923 New Haven alco dummy with horn question

The frame should be straight. I do believe the weight is factory installed.

Thank you. I am glad I asked.

Seems logical that Lionel would use a straight frame, based on manufacturing ease and just plain old kludginess 

And if this picture on picclick.com is representative, then I would say the weight is factory installed. 

Quick off-topic, does that horn sound really funky? Mine (just like it) does!

Seems logical that Lionel would use a straight frame, based on manufacturing ease and just plain old kludginess 


Over the years, I've learned not to assume a whole lot, which is why I asked.

I was certain enough about the frame to straighten it before I asked. (The question on the frame was an afterthought)
I was guessing that the weight wasn't factory, being that it is overly heavy, not that neatly made and not that neatly mounted. But as Chuck and Geopeg point out, it is indeed a factory part.

The horn does not sound very good to me. It's electronic, but I think the postwar bicycle horns sound better.

service manual page

Thanks again!