coal

[jfitz]

Whats best coal for lionel # 397? Old  # 206 coal sorts out small stuff and cobs up the elavator. Any hobby shop stuff better ? thanks jfitz

[laz 57]

I have used Lionel 24148 coal for coal tipple.  Looks like rat turds but won't clog up the conveyor belt.  Here's a link.  Hope this helps?

http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/preorder-lionel-24148-coal-tipple-56678065

laz57

[bfskinner]

jfitz

Whats best coal for lionel # 397? Old  # 206 coal sorts out small stuff and cobs up the elavator. Any hobby shop stuff better ? thanks jfitz

Laz's suggestion may work, but it doesn't look much like coal -- if that matters to you. Some folks have reported good results with black aquarium gravel. Whatever you use, you probably ought to sift it to remove the tiny chips and bits. There are other suggestions too, some of which are in the Lionel Service Manual which is in book form as well as online at the "Library" at Olsen's Train parts.

I doubt that you can ever totally eliminate the problem, but you can reduce it. Real coal loaders break down from time to time too.

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[jfitz]

Thanks Laz. I ordered some. If it works, I 'll think of you;not because of your colorful description but if it doesn't work I'll think of your description. Any way thanks for the help. Jfitz