Lionel CC Club Niagara Question

I can't recall ever hearing that about the Niagara's; rather the EM-1 had well-documented drive coupling issues. Could be wrong though, am interested to see more responses.

I have not found a metal replacement, Although you may be able to produce one from RC car parts.

Unfortunately, these are made of  plastic and if  the wrong oil or grease is used they will dry out and crack.

The EM-1 had a different failure mode. it was further up the drive train. the motor shaft to the universal sleeve were just glued on from the plant. The fix was to drill a hole and pin the assembly together.

BTW, call Lionel repair service dept. They may have a universal from another type of locomotive that may cross reference/ repair yours.

Thanks guys. Mine isn't broken yet but am getting order ready for Lionel. I may wait until the open house and ask then.

Pete

It would be a good idea to bring that part or a photo along to aid the seach for a spare. As J.Daddy posted, I have heard about that part failing on EM-1's but not on Niagaras. Having a spare is always a good idea.

Yep, mine failed (cracked) a few years ago (this has been a lemon loco anyway).

I fixed it with a piece of brass tubing slipped over the cracked part and glued (with

Walther's Goo, maybe?). So far, so good.

If anyone comes up with a metal replacement, please post - I'll buy a couple, because I

live that blasted, infuriating loco.

If Lionel doesn't have an upgraded coupling I will get one from either PIC Design or Stock Drive Products (SDP). They both offer high quality couplings that I have used in my own designs. Google them and see what I mean. If I go this route I'll pass the word here to see if there is any interest to maybe get quantity pricing.

Pete