Lionel American Flyer Seaboard Coaler gearbox frozen

@triplex posted:

I have the modern Lionel version of the American Flyer Seaboard Coaler. I tried to operate it this evening but the clam shell bucket does not move up or down. The little can motor runs fine but the gearbox is not turning. Has anyone ever serviced this unit? Do you have to remove the yellow house surrounding the gearbox, or do you loosen the gearbox from inside the yellow house? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks. My email is: milt@paiger.org

Yes, I have.  It sounds like you have the same problem I had.  If you don't use this thing regularly the rubber band drive won’t engage.  The rubber gets old and takes a set so the motor just spins without turning the rubber band.  This link covers my adventures and should give you the info you need to make the repair.

https://ogrforum.com/...0#168388667931595700

Please feel free to ask questions.

Tom Stoltz

in Maine

Tom, To service the Lionel American Flyer Seaboard Coaler you do not remove the yellow house surrounding the motor and gearbox. You remove the six screws securing the motor-gearbox to the accessory base. Then, lift the motor gear box out of the yellow house. You may have to un-solder the two wires going to the motor to access the bottom of the gearbox. Open the gearbox and replace the broken or stretched drive belt. Use a traction tire or get an "O" ring from your nearby hardware or plumbing supply. Make sure the gears turn freely in the gearbox. Add a drop of oil to the top of the gearbox where the shaft can be seen. Reassemble the motor gearbox, re-solder the motor wires and you should be good to go.