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Lionel no longer services this product. I have two sets and after taking them both back out of the box today, I cannot get either of them to run. Can anyone direct me to someone who can take on a repair of this sort? Thanks, Jerry TImage-1

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  • Lionel Holiday Christmas Train "G" Gauge
Last edited by Jerry T
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   You'll get help, but more than likely its "do it yourself" help. A track powered unit would be somewhat different., but most of the cheaper ones aren't worth the cost of a repair shop, (sentimental attachment aside). Lionel had a part in producing some cheap ones, and really good ones both.

#1 Does that run on batteries or powered track? That is question #1 for sure.(no link, unfamiliar loco, & can't really tell)

Q.#2- Is this O gauge? Normally G belongs in the HO,N,G,Z section for best responses. Getting the size straight is why I ask. Post placing mistakes happen, and can be moved if it annoys anyone. 

    Parts aren't really made for the cheap ones either. But, they are normally very simple items IMO.

RC/battery op.- an RC shop isn't a bad idea.

 But..  Roll those batteries around a bit, and flip all switches back and forth on all items. Remove the batteries for about 10 minutes, and then reinstall them, try all switches again. Do that a few times too. (chips can have trouble "waking up" sometimes) Some have manual controls as well, try them. Turn the stack/ bell / domes, there are hidden switches there sometimes. Repeatedly unplug and re-plug the tether to the tender, or battery car if it has one. If you can, check that plug with a voltmeter or mini-light bulb to see if power even made it that far (any 6-14volt bulb should work to test there) Heck, push (lightly, don't strip gears, some won't roll) and generally bang them around a bit (if they are cheap, non-sentimental). Move or just push/tap on the metal contact rivets. Oil cleans rust (some eat plastics).

   I suspect mild corrosion on the contact points over anything. Moving switches, vibration, etc. often cleans things enough for them to work again. Like beating up an old flashlight .

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