Lionel 2046/2056 and Magnetraction

[PhrozenAce]

Hello Forum,

Is there a difference in the chassis/motor between the 2046 and the 2056 aside from Magnetraction?  If a 2046 has no Magnetraction, is there any way to know if the Magnetraction has just gotten extremely weaker over the years or if the chassis has been switched with a 2056?

Thanks,

Bernard

[ADCX Rob]

You can see the magnets on the 2046.  Otherwise, the two are the same.

[PhrozenAce]

Hello Rob,

Thanks for your answer.  If you don't mind me asking, can I see the magnets on the 2046 from the outside or do I need to disassemble it?

Thanks,

Bernard

[Train-O]

Bernard,

I have a 2046 and though mine is second hand, it still has plenty of 'Magne-Traction,' but the strength of the magnets, besides age, will also depend on the treatment of the engine.
Then, again there are non-'Magne-Traction' engines that will fit into the body-shell. 

Most of Lionel's 'Pre-War' and Post-War' engines will not only last long, but are also 'Work Horses!'

Ralph

 

[ADCX Rob]

PhrozenAce

...can I see the magnets on the 2046 from the outside or do I need to disassemble it?

You can see them from the bottom, they are rather small(esp. compared to Alco/GG-1/pre-1955 switchers) rectangular bars mounted just above & behind the front and rear axles between the side frames.  If you have both locos in front of you, it would be easy to see that they are missing on the 2056.

The 2056 was made with blackened steel side frames and the 2046 has aluminum side frames.