This is my new project. I have a couple simple questions if you can help. My complete service manual for Lionel trains by K-line does not give details of the inside of the train. I have looked at the Olsen site and while they give details of the outside and a parts list it does not show the inside either.(or at least I could not find it) So if anyone can give me a place to find it so I can call the parts by there correct name that would be a great start. The train will need to be completely rewired as the wires all look to be original and in very poor shape. Would 22 gauge wires be correct for running from the e-unit to motor and also the roller pickups to light and motor? Can I solder wire onto the e-unit without taking the e-unit apart or is that too risky? I know I shouldn’t ask you guys about my capabilities with soldering but what the heck, assume I’m pretty good by now. Should oil or grease be used in the worm gearing housing? I believe Bruce Baker will say all I need is oil. Referring to the pictures for the 773 which is similar to the 763 E there is a drive coupling with little screws to hold it to the shaft. Would anyone know what the tread/screw size would be for this as the screws are missing? On a final note one brush cap is missing and someone made a strip out of copp
I’m sorry it is a 763 E Hudson. My bad.
Harold
Make sure that you are careful as to where you put the wires when the shell goes back or you may pinch the wires, and create a short. Try to run the wires where Lionel had them run.
No, 22 guage wiring is too small. I would use 18 guage. There are lugs on the outside of the E unit that wires are soldered onto, you can easily remove/resolder there. Grease should be used in the grease housing on the gears. FORGET using automotive motor oil on any engine. It sounds like a hacker has got ahold of that engine. I would advise you to take it to a Lionel professional who is experienced with that model. The 763 is not in the Greensberg book either.
Roger
That is not a good or accurate blanket statement or position to take. Modern synthetics are vastly superior to anything available to Lionel(or anyone) when this loco was made. The use of automotive lubricants can be safely and effectively used for enhanced protection and performance in toy trains.
You’re looking in the wrong Greenberg book… This is the right book.
Quote: “That is not a good or accurate blanket statement or position to take.”
Actually Rob, it IS a good one to take. While you COULD use some of the synthetic automotive oils like Mobile 1, when did Lionel, MTH, Williams, slot cars makers, or any other non automotive manufacturer recommend using automotive oils? Lionel said back in the 50’s to NOT use 3 in 1 oil, but people still do today. Tell you what Rob, YOU keep on using your automotive motor oil and I will use Labelle or “Liquid bearings”. Fair enough?
Roger
3-in-One is not an automotive lubricant.
I wouldn’t use 3-In-One either, I’m glad we agree with Lionel… it’s not a good lubricant for trains. Neither is WD-40, Liquid Wrench, PB Blaster, or kerosene.
I guess we also agree Lionel has not said to never use automotive lubricants.
Lionel has not recommended “Liquid Bearings”, or LaBelle, you should stay away from them.
So… you see where this is going now, right?
Philly, Thanks I will, I know it is tight in this train.
Roger and Rob. Thanks for the information, 18 guage it is. I didn’t mean to cause any problems about grease or oil but a lot of people seem to feel strongly about what to use from my reading of other posts on the subject. This just happens to be my oldest engine and I never saw this type of gear box before. It also seems it must have been run on O 31 track because the front 2 wheels have a slight wobble in them. I hope it will run ok on O 42 turns since my space won’t allow a 72" radius. At least not yet.
Harold