I have this nice die cast tender - it sure looks like LIONEL 2235T - but has no markings on the underside.
Unfortunately, it has a broken coupler.
I noticed this particular specimen has nice 6 wheel trucks that give it a cool look.
But the coupler looks more modern, plastic silver thumb tack.
Was this a variation - or just somebody's custom re-trucking? Or just something else - not LIONEL?
Looks like a hobbyist applied decal.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
If you pop the shell off, there will be a part number...like 2224-1 or 2226-3..or 700T-1.
The twelve wheel tender frame was a 2226W, if in fact is a Prewar frame. It is wired as a whistling tender, so you would have to see what type of whistle it has. A 2235 was only 8 wheel. The shell is a replacement on a 2226 frame.
Those trucks are not Prewar or Postwar Lionel. Either they are Lionel Modern era or another brand.
Modern era Lionel reissued the prewar die cast metal tenders. I'd guess it's one of those.
Good call CW, as I totally missed the journal boxes not being Prewar at all. I have no experience with any MPC or modern era to make the call. The earlier post of a 2226 frame is out the window!!!
Looks like a prewar 2226W frame and body with MPC trucks and no coupler. From the picture it looks like the whistle would not work, as there is no ground wire soldered to the wiper contact and the wheels are in plastic bushings.
The coupler is broken off - and its plastic - looks like something from MPC era (or other aftermarket). I added some pictures.
I can actually remember this tender as part of my uncles collection back in the 1970s...it sat on the same place on the layout forever. Easy to remember that ERIE decal. He had it paired up with a 225, which I'm certain is a built up from parts - or at least refurbished and repainted, new handrails, etc. It looks a little too good.
So - how can I fix that coupler?!
Looks like I'd have to get lucky (and fortify a bit) with glue. It looks like the truck is riveted on? Or is there perhaps a screw inside? Looks like just the 4 screws in the corners to get the shell off.
I would use JB Weld Quick setting epoxy. Second choice would be Loctite Super clue. The JB Weld will cure hard in about 15 mins.
Also, if it is an MPC or modern shell, the coal load will be part of the tender casting. If it is really an old one, the coal will be a plastic insert.
you need a 691-8006-t70 coupler and a 691-8006-t57 coupler armature a 600-1615-093 spring and a 600-8960-052 pal nut this will fix your coupler problem with all new parts. see if jeff kane at the train tender has these parts
The coupler is also available in die cast metal.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
