Could be something simple like the reverse unit in the tender being locked in forward. Try moving the reverse lever and see if the reverse unit sequences. If it sequences but does not reverse, the reverse unit may need servicing.
Larry
I have an American Flyer model # 9991, with a 21085 loco that I bought many years ago for "my boys", now that I have grand-kids I'm trying to get it back into running order. I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed, but thought I could set it up and enjoy their faces as it ran around the track. I can't seem to get the loco to switch directions when I want it to. It runs fine and doesn't have many hours actual run-time. I bought it from a collector who's passed on. Back in the day I don't remember having this problem. I've kept it clean and I thought in good working order. I checked to coal tender to make sure it's making good contact, checked the track, making sure the connections are tight. Need a little help figuring out the problem.
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