Lionel motor in the 4-4-0 General 6-8701

Hi Grampstrains,

Thanks for the reply and advice!  I will oil and grease it all up, also, I want to put a switch on the smoke unit or change the light since they seem grounded together.

I put a little oil on the worm gear (will grease it later). So with power applied while holding in midair, I ran it in reverse for a few minutes at about 14 volts, and then forward, so now much improved.  Through the cab window, I can see the commutator jumping around a little in reverse, fairly stable in forward.  So perhaps a little washer might help.

(40 years doesn't seem that long to me!)

Thanks!  Take care, Joe.

P.S.  I am glad it doesn't have traction tires; I only pull short trains, lightweight rollingstock.  J.