I’m very proud of my first Lionel train repair. I own a 675 K-4 Steam locomotive that was making its away around my layout when the wheels started sparking and it derailed. I noticed that the rear wheels and the bar that connects to the tender fell onto the tracks. I immediately panicked and figured that I’d have to bring it to a train specialist for repair but luckily I found the flathead screw that held the rear wheels and connecting bar all-together. After piecing the parts together, I simply reinserted the screw and voila - everything works. I love this loco and am thrilled that I could do a minor repair with no previous work on a train before. Just thought that I’d share the story and say thanks to Lionel for not using a permanent bolt in that location.
Congratulations! Both for being able to make the repair and for having such a nice old loco. How did you come to own it, being new to the hobby?
Jim
Ebay, but of course.
2343, you might to check your local library (or eventually make an investment) for the Greenberg Lionel Repair Manual. Granted, you won’t learn everything from it. And there are some products not listed in the book. But one of the fun things about the hobby - and also a financial incentive - is being able to do repairs yourself.
There are plenty of parts dealers out there, and most essential parts are still available either as originals or as lesser expensive reproduction parts. Most of the repro parts are fine unless you are looking to restore something with some value to original condition for resale… then you might want the original parts.
Some people have a knack for this kind of thing more so than others. But there are still plenty of basic repairs you can learn to do yourself that will save you loads of money in the long run. I think Kalmbach has a book on doing basic repairs. I’m sure Greenberg might have one too. Good books to go through and learn about this stuff.
May I also suggest for your learning pleasure, that when the opportunity avails, if you ever see some kind of beater for sale somplace, pick it up and use it as a learning experience for yourself. Practical experience is the best teacher and no one wants to mess up a train item that they really value. Better to get some practice on something that is not as important to you. And who knows, you may be able to make something good from a piece of junk and have yourself a new favorite!