Suggestions for low cow catcher that shorts out

Dennis-

I'm assuming the cow catcher is cast metal, so possibly heat and a firm (but gentle) touch might bend it back into shape. If not, thin strips of electrical tape (or the liquid electrical type) might work too. If the cow catcher is removable (i.e. not cast into the boiler) maybe it could be shimmed to provide extra clearance?

-John

If you try to bend it, there is a possibility of it breaking. If it does, you can epoxy it back into the correct position.

Take the front pilot wheels off the engine.

Press the cow catcher flat down on a block of wood.  Use short presses downward. See if you sense any movement.  

OR ...

Call Lionel and spend $32.00

Good Luck,

John

dennish posted:

I have a steam locomotive that has a cow catcher that is bent downward to the point that is touches the center rail and shorts out on the smallest bump in the track. You can clearly see that it is bent downwards. Any thoughts on how to bend it back so that the engine can run properly? A new one costs $32 from Lionel.

Thanks,

Dennis

I like ACELANYP's idea of shimming it were it mounts to tilt it upward. Bending cast isn't easy. You may want to try a new spring for the pilot truck, if it has one. That may lift the front a little.

The first move is to use some thin strips of electrical tape on the bottom edge. Quick and easy, but, will require attention from time to time.

It helps if you describe the engine - someone may have solved the issue already - pre-war - post- war - Lionel jr. - ???

Liquid Electrical Tape.  It's black.  Just paint a tiny bit on the bottom of the cow catcher over the center rail.  I use this stuff on my switches.  Sometimes the wheels rub up against the side of the frog.  I just paint the side of the frog and the problem is solved.  Available at your box stores.

Have Fun

Ron

It would be easier to post a solution if you told us what the engine is and posted a picture of the pilot. To do it right would likely require removing the steam chest and using heat assuming its diecast. If its brass then no heat, just pressure.

Pete

First off, don't try bending it back all in one shot, that is very likely to break it.

I've had the best luck in bending diecast back into shape with constant pressure and heat.  I use my heat gun to apply heat, let the pressure work a little for a few hours, then more heat and continue the pressure, etc.  I use a big spring clamp to apply the pressure.  If that doesn't have enough tension, you can use a vice with some wood padding so you don't put teeth marks in the part.

As others have said, take the pilot off to work on it, it usually makes it easier.  Since you have an option to get a new one, there's little to lose to give bending it back a try.