We have a nice Southern U Boat that has just started the 'dreaded cab light blink' and the smoke unit has quit. I bought the engine from a young man whose grandfather had passed and it appeared to be new and unrun. I thought this was primarily a steam locomotive problem.
There was no receipt so I don't know if Lionel would warranty it. Is there a 'simple fix' without sending it back?
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Replace the smoke fan motor, it's the most common failure. Yes, this has afflicted both steamers and diesels.
I've been putting MTH motors in them with good results. I don't have massive failures with the MTH smoke units, so I figure they are a better choice right now. Hopefully Lionel will get a better fan motor soon.
Thanks John. After I posted this I came across the other thread about the blinking cab lights which was very informative. I tried the several suggestions including turning it upside down for awhile. Now it has quit blinking altogether but the motor is silent.
Is the motor silent because it's not running, or just silent running? It makes a big difference! 
Correction - the blink has returned and no fan/smoke. Guess I'll send it back to Lionel after the new year...
I ordered a replacement smoke unit fan motor for my k4 a year or so ago, its worked great ever since.
Having said that, the fan motors are now "unavailable" on Lionels parts website, that tells ya something.
You could save yourself the shipping aggravation and put in an MTH fan motor. 
Considering what Rick posted above that may be a good idea John!
Do you have them available with your new status as a tech?
These engine are famous for there smoke unit motors .. A mth one is a great option .. Easy to replace .. The little horn on the bottom has to be removed to take the shell off..
Yep, I keep them in stock, never know when you might need one.
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