attached are some pictures of an old American Flyer engine that was my uncle’s I am trying to identify the model so I can try and get parts for it but I am not having any luck I have found some online that basically have the exact same tin shell but some of the mechanical part look different does anyone know what model this is and the best place to get parts
Railroaded_65,
As you already know this is an American Flyer engine. Among collectors it is classified as a Type XX (20) sheet metal engine. It was produced in approx 1935 and never appeared in an American Flyer catalog but there is documentation that it was sold through other catalogs. There are a number of cataloged engines of this same type (Type XX) that have specific numbers - which is why you can find photos of similar engines. Yours is a 2-4-0 wheel arrangement. The mechanism at the back is a mechanical whistle. Sometimes the whistles work, sometimes they don’t and when they do they are usually not very loud. There were never any rear wheels with this model. I am not very knowledgeable about parts but there are folks who read here and can direct you. What parts are you looking for? Do you have any cars that go with the set?
Enjoying the World’s Greatest Hobby
Northwoods Flyer
Looks like you need leading truck wheels, as yours look to be deteriorated. I would also suggest replacing the springs and brushes, if you have not already.
You might try Harry Henning of Henningstrains.com. He may have those wheels individually, or a separate leading wheel truck assembly. Just make sure you get the correct leading truck assembly if you go that route. There are different styles and lengths of the attaching bar.
Again it really depends on what parts you need for it, as if the gears are bad, you are not going to finds parts, except on an original engine. If that is the case, I would only buy a parts engine if you can hold it in your hand and inspect it.
NWL