I have a Key Imports Santa Fe E-8 A&B that I purchased new back in the mid-eighties. It still looks fantastic even compared to today's recent releases. It does have a lot of miles on it and the gearbox in the A-unit is starting to wear out. I think the idler gear is starting to get some lateral movement as the holes in the gear box are showing some elongation. I can notice it at slow speeds where the A-unit will start to shutter slightly and won't start or stop as smoothly. Running it backwards a short distance will get everything in the gearbox re-aligned and it will run smoothly forward and reverse for a few miles until it happens again. Does anyone know where I might find a replacement gearbox for that vintage Key drive. The KTM gearbox does not look compatible. Thanks
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Sir, I would suggest J Criswell He seems very talented and possibly would have that part as he refurbishes ,rebuilds, that quality of locomotive regularly. If you look back through the 2 rail scale posts you should find something on him and his exquisite work.
posted 3 hours ago in 2 rail overland loco drive train noise several resposes by jay criswell
Now I know why my ears were burning! Happy to help, if I can.
Jay
Thanks for all the replies. Jay, do you have or know where I can get a gearbox that Key used in their diesels back in the 80's? Is it possible they still use the same gearbox in their latest models? What would be my next step in purchasing one. Thanks, Jack
I have lots of extra towers (what I think you're talking about) but to be perfectly honest I don't really know if any of them would be correct for your model.
The Key drives have changed over the years and the later or current versions are totally different. I might be able to help you with a replacement or install new bearings in your tower if the gears haven't been damaged.
Another option might be to contact Roger Lewis to see if he has any originals. He may, in fact refer you to Gary Schraeder (that spelling doesn't look right). Gary does a lot of work for Key.
Has the gearbox (tower) been removed from the loco? If so, I'll take a look, if you want.
Anyway, lots of options and hopefully at least one will pan out.
Jay