Lionel GP-9 smoke unit - bad instructions or bad design

It looks like you’re missing the smoke funnel that should have been included in the engine from the factory.  The funnel connects the two stacks with the offset smoke unit.  Without it, you would have the exact problems you described.  The PRR version from the recent run had it included and installed in the one we ordered.

I’m having a hard time getting into Lionel’s parts page but this is what the funnel looks like

@John from Conneaut posted:

I recently purchased a Lionel GP-9. Just trying to understand if I'm correct in that this manual is wrong. Putting smoke fluid through the top of the smoke stacks would miss the smoke unit and just flow over the electronics / wires. Seems like either an old manual or a newer design. Also, the smoke unit works all too well and fills the inside of the locomotive with smoke that then seeps out through "cracks" in the cover as it doesn't seal 100%. Is this all bad design and bad manuals or am I missing something? Appreciate any insights or feedback.

What is the actual SKU number for the locomotive.  You are definitely missing the funnel like picture above but you should make sure you order the correct one along with the gasket.

Also check that the funnel isn't attached to the underside of the shell piece you removed.

Based on your statement about the smoke seeping out of everywhere, it's probably not there, but worth checking. If it is by chance there, you should ensure that the bottom of the funnel connects to the brass piece correctly. I can envision someone installing it backwards.

Thanks to both of you. That solves my question! Appreciate the fast response. Great advice to check the shell. It had slid down the side of the smoke unit and was resting on the bottom of the loco frame! It seems there is only one way to install the funnel and it sits well. Hopefully that will do the trick! Thanks to all of you. Very helpful and quick response! Super helpful for me as I live in England and not many Lionel folk around!

John, just to solve my curiosity for future reference.

Is your GP9 the one from 2012, or the Custom Run from Mr. Muffins trains from this year?  Those are the only two I could find with loco #452.

Glad you figured it out to get it fixed!

Davies, it is the new custom run from Mr Muffins!

@John from Conneaut posted:

Davies, it is the new custom run from Mr Muffins!

Excellent!

For your reference,  if you ever need a replacement after warranty, they look to be $6.50 from Lionel

I noticed in John’s picture, there’s direct access to the smoke unit from the top by a cover. Does anyone know if all the latest GP9’s are like that? I’m thinking about buying the UP model 2433412.

Gene

Gene, I bought this from Mr. Muffin from the 2024 Big Book as one of his custom runs. I would assume all the latest GP9s in that catalog are like the one I have. Wouldn't you think that was the case given Lionel states, "The latest release of GP9s includes....."?

@John from Conneaut posted:

Gene, I bought this from Mr. Muffin from the 2024 Big Book as one of his custom runs. I would assume all the latest GP9s in that catalog are like the one I have. Wouldn't you think that was the case given Lionel states, "The latest release of GP9s includes....."?

I would definitely assume that. I was hoping someone here who purchased a different one could verify. I like that easy access panel. Thanks for your reply.

Gene

The recent release of GP9 is essentially the same mold as the earlier runs.  I’ve had 3 versions ranging from early Legacy to the present run.  They all had the removable top hatch over the smoke unit.  That is actually my preferred way of filling the smoke unit.  Gets more fluid in the unit quicker vs waiting for it to drain down the funnel to the offset smoke unit.  

The one noticeable difference from the early Legacy PRR model to this run is the improvement of applied details on the engine.

@jstraw124 posted:

The recent release of GP9 is essentially the same mold as the earlier runs.  I’ve had 3 versions ranging from early Legacy to the present run.  They all had the removable top hatch over the smoke unit.  That is actually my preferred way of filling the smoke unit.  Gets more fluid in the unit quicker vs waiting for it to drain down the funnel to the offset smoke unit.  

The one noticeable difference from the early Legacy PRR model to this run is the improvement of applied details on the engine.

This is exactly what I wanted to know in reference to the latest run. Having the option to fill the smoke unit by removing the top hatch would be my preferred way. The offset funnel design leaves a lot to be desired. Thanks for posting.

Gene

@Genemed posted:

This is exactly what I wanted to know in reference to the latest run. Having the option to fill the smoke unit by removing the top hatch would be my preferred way. The offset funnel design leaves a lot to be desired. Thanks for posting.

Gene

I do want to qualify my response regarding one specific model.  The PRR with the antenna is harder to pull the cover for the smoke unit, along with the cover to the switches, due to the antenna.

John, I’m glad you got your problem fixed in a relatively painless manner and can now go onto enjoying your new engine. I have all three NKP Legacy GP9s from the earlier run (liked them so much I also bought all three Wabash units).  They are fantastic runners and look great on all sizes of curves. The GP7/9 and F3/7 Legacy diesels are some of their best offerings in my view. I really think you’ll enjoy them!

If you ever stumble on them, the earlier release looks to be a dead match for yours if you want to expand your consist.