Need help with repair issues Lionel 18753 RS-3

@breezinup posted:

This RS-3 is one with dual can motors, virtually the same as the LionChief Plus versions, except it's conventional. I have two problems with it. The engine was pre-owned and had a split nylon pinion gear. the part wasn't available from Lionel, but per a recommendation from Forum members, I got a no. 8010-117 gear for a replacement. I took the truck apart, but can't figure out how to get the gear on the shaft. It seems too tight to get on. Should the hole in the gear be drilled out a little?

The second issue is that in the process of fiddling with the gear, one of the wheels came off its axle. It now just slides on and off. What's the best solution for that - a little epoxy on the axle? Thanks.

Maybe start looking for a replacement truck?

Sounds like the beginning of more problems to come.

@RSJB18 posted:

Maybe start looking for a replacement truck?

Sounds like the beginning of more problems to come.

@breezinup

I got this from a Christmas accessory guy that I bought a gear from. Hopefully you have one of those screw/ drill bit plastic sheets. Put the gear in the holes till you find the right size. Then do the same thing with the shaft. Get a piece of scrap wood drill a shallow hole with a bit that matches the gear. Then using a bit to match the shaft drill a hole deep enough to be able to position the gear at the right spot on the shaft. Place the gear in the hole. Holding the shaft straight gently tap it on to the gear.

Before you go any farther, have a chat with Pat @harmonyards about the job.  He might have some suggestions that will ease the task.