Lionel f3 e-unit cycles but engine won't move

I had a similar problems a few months back and I was amazed how a shot of "tuner spray" onto the e-unit drum seemed to wake it up.  Its been working great since!

Jaymark,

Thanks, I'll give it a try.

More than likely, there's a broken/loose wire.  It only takes one to produce these symptoms.

Rob & Jaymark,

I think I resolved much of my F3 motor problem.

It appears that it is the brushes, because when I apply pressure to the brushes the engine responds & will move forward or reverse. The e-unit seems to be fine.

My question is: How easy is it to replace the brushes?

Also, I noticed when it is moving that there are sparks that I notice coming from the commutator. Is this normal? Or does this mean that the brushes are worn down?

First, remove 2 screws holding the brush plate and lift it off. Watch the 2 brushes - they may fall out.

Clean the commutator.

Replace the brushes. If necessary, replace both brush springs.

That should do it.