Frequently sparking is due to dirt buildup on the track, wheels or pick-up roller. Try cleaning the track using a rag, or other non-maetalic item, with some alcohol or Goo Gone. Also clean the wheels and pick-up roller on the engine using a Q-tip or old tooth bruch.
The spark seems to be from where contact is made and broke again. It is usually caused by dirty wheels or dirty track. Try cleaning the pickup wheels and track and see if the sparking is reduced. Do not use steel wool. A scotch brite pad works real good. A dremel on the pickup wheels does a good job.
Jim
There will always be a little sparking; but, when you get the wheels, rollers, and track clean, it will not be very noticeable.
Bob Nelson
I have found Bob's observation right on the money. Even when my track is new/pristine and the wheels and pickup rollers are absolutely clean (and lubricated, operating smoothly and freely), I get some slight sparking.
IF IT WON'T COME LOOSE BY TAPPING ON IT, DON'T TRY TO FORCE IT. USE A BIGGER HAMMER.
lionelsoni There will always be a little sparking; but, when you get the wheels, rollers, and track clean, it will not be very noticeable.
That's been my experience. When I was a kid, I would turn all of the lights off and watch the sparks fly as my American Flyer roared around the track. I was enthralled. The only other lights were the green light bulb on my 8B transformer and the red/green lights on my switches. That and the smell of smoke from the engine stack. Oh my, to be 10 years old again.
Alton Junction
For some reason post war(WW-2) AF engines on two rail track seem to have more sparks than any other trains that I have seen.
Like Bob N. says, there are always sparks, just more noticeable with American Flyer trains.
Lee F.
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