Lionel 2354 VS 2344 (NYC F3 Units)

[Anonymous]

As I explained in the other post I recently acquired a lionel NYC 2344 F3 set. I also have the 2 yrs newer version the lionel NYC 2354 f3 set. The two sets are almost identical with the exception of the horn in the 2354 being in the dummy unit. The 2344 runs slower than the 2354. They were both completely broken down, cleaned, greased and oiled. Can anyone tell me if this is supposed to be or is there a way of making the other one faster. Thanks for any ideas.

[lionelsoni]

The only difference that I can find in the drive train is that the idler gear of the 2344 is on a shaft that runs in a bearing pressed into the casting, while the 2354's idler gear runs on a steel pin pressed into the casting. That does not seem enough to explain a speed difference. Do both motors of each locomotive run at about the same speed when off the track?

If you're really curious, you might try swapping motors between models to try to isolate the difference to the motors or the trucks.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the response. I didn't realize that I could repost so I sent you an e-mail. One of the Motors on The 2344 is slower than the other. What can I do to fix this. Thanks Again.

[lionelsoni]

Try swapping the motors within the 2344. If the slowness switches trucks, the problem is in the motor; if it stays with the same truck, it is the truck. That will narrow it down to one truck or one motor.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the info.I swapped motors, and the trucks seemed to be fine. The motor seemed to be giving the trouble. When it was not mounted on the truck it gave a faint squeek. I took the motor apart and discovered that the brush plate and the brushes were really dirty. (A bit embarrassing) I guess I should have thought of the little things first. Thanks for the help!!