My Diesel Smokes (but it is not supposed to)

Hi all,
I have a 2002 GP style Lionel Diesel, Milwaukee Road. It has two problems.

  1. The unit emits a foul smoke (smells like Ozone). My local repair guy said it is probably a fried “e-board” and had to be replaced.
  2. The front (non-driving) wheels have detached from the engine where the steel pivot attaches.

Number 1 occured well before number 2. I think my son dropped the engine and that caused number 2 [:(]. Before I run off to the repair shop I was hoping to get some basic guidance on…
A. How hard is it to repair an “e-board” myself?
B. If I take it to the shop approximately how much is this going to cost me? Are
C. Has anyone seen problem number 2? Any ideas how to fix this?

Thanks in advance,
George

Repair the board? Not likely, you would need to identify the fried component, find a replacement, and install that component. Much easier to replace the board.

To have a service station replace it, if it is not under warranty, maybe $20-$30, just an educated guess. Ask to talk to the repair person for an estimate. Most of the time they aren’t around when you bring your train in. Just have them call you.

The truck problem sounds like a speed nut. Very easy problem if that’s all it is. Common parts, less than a buck. Have you taken the shell off the engine? The parts may still be inside. If they haven’t changed how they fasten the trucks on, you are looking for a small cup-like washer, a spring, and a speed nut or clip.