Fixing an Athearn 4-6-2 gear problem

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I was running my Athearn Genesis 4-6-2 last light when it started making a high pitching whining sound and then stopped running altogether. I assume that it is the cracked gear problem that I have heard about. I understand that I can send it back to Athearn and they will fix it, but that seems to be the sissy approach to me. I grew up with the Bowser and MDC engine kits and taking them apart, regearing them and requartering the drivers was an a big part of the fun.

Other than screwing up whatever warrantee might be present, is this problem fixable? Does NWSL make replacement gears or will Athearn send replacements? Is getting the shell off a ridiculous task, like the 2-8-2. Before I pack it up and ship it off to Athearn, I want to know if this a something that a reasonably skilled model railroader could fix. - Nevin

2

Nevin;

It sounds more like the worm coming out engagement with the worm gear.

Does the motor spin, but the drivers don’t ?

Did you lubricate the motor bearings and gears?

3

Arrrrrrrggggggghhhhhh!!! Don’t do it!!!

I just spent the last 1.5 hours trying to disassemble it, I still can’t figure out what is wrong with it, but now it is in about 10 pieces. I think I will quietly reassemble it and send it back to Athearn. Hopefully it will go back together again. Won’t make that mistake twice. - Nevin