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How to Repair an American Flyer Train

For over a century, American Flyer trains have captured the imagination of generations of model train enthusiasts. They remind us of our past and inspire our appreciation of true craftsmanship. Owning model trains can be a rewarding experience. However, like any finely tuned mechanism, they require continuous maintenance and periodic repairs. Having the ability to repair your American Flyer train will not only give you a sense of accomplishment, but will save you money while adding to the enjoyment of this worthwhile hobby.

Things You'll Need

Lint cloth
Pressurized air can
Mini screwdriver
Tweezers
Wire strippers
Light sandpaper
Q-tips
Lubricant
Lithium grease

Instructions

Repair Procedures
- 1
  Secure the car in an upside down position and clean with lint cloth. Unscrew the carriage and remove the housing. Blow out dust and any loose particles with a pressurized air can, making note of any broken parts.
- 2
  Look for evidence of rust which can prevent electrical currents from completing the circuit. If rust is evident, sand it off using a fine sandpaper. Blow excess dust out with your pressurized air can. Strip and reattach lose or broken wires.
- 3
  Press pick-up roller pins to be certain they are moving freely. Apply two drops of oil for every 15 to 20 hours of operation. Lubricate side rod bolts and crosshead in the same 15- to 20-hour interval. Wipe off excess lubricant oil with Q-tips. Place one or two drops of oil on coupler knuckle pins to complete lubrication. Inadequate lubrication will make your train inoperable.
- 4
  Run your palm across all wheels to be certain they are free moving. If a wheel locks, remove any debris with pressurized air can or tweezers. Lubricate wheels with one drop of oil each. Be certain wheels roll free once cleaned.
- 5
  Check gear box to see if it moves freely. Inadequate greasing can freeze gears. Grease the gearbox with lithium grease after every 50 hours of operation. Apply a small amount of grease to exposed gears every 20 to 50 hours of operation.
- 6
  Reassemble the housing to the carriage, being certain that all roller pins and wheels still move freely before tightening screws. Place the train on the track with wheels properly aligned. Power up the transformer and test your train.

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