Lionel Standard Gauge # 33

[George Thill]

Hello again. A while ago you gave me some help with AF 3rail switches, but I'm new to Standard Gauge, and in the process of building a layout.

 I have acquired a Lionel #33 STD. engine that needs the brushes changed, but the brush holders are riveted to the frame: how do I  change the brushes?  (The engine has a single pick-up shoe, not rollers).

Thanks!

George Thill

[cheapclassics]

George,

Welcome back to the forum.  I am not familiar with the 33, but I am replying to keep the thread alive.   That is one engine I would like to see MTH come out with a repro at some point.

Keep on training,

Mike C. from Indiana

[George Thill]

Thanks!

When I got the # 33 engine it ran intermitently: worn-out brushes and crumbling insulation on the wires. Now it won't run at all,  so I'm replacing the insuation with clear tubing but it apears that I can't get at the brushes to replace them unless I can remove the armiture.The frame is held together by screws, but the armiture is prevented from being removed by the small center gear that drives the wheels. Can it be removed and replaced on the shaft without damage?

The alternative seems to be trying to loosen the brush-tubes and sliding them away from the armiture, but can they be tightened again and stay in place?

There aren't many books out there that say much about Standard Gauge repair and mantanance! 

Frusration! I've got a growing lay-out to test out, and 5 freight cars to pull, but no working engine!

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

George Thill

[M. Mitchell Marmel]

Can you take a photo of the area? 

Mitch

[Penny Trains]

These older and oldest Lionel type motors made between 1906 and 1920(ish) are tough.  A lot of the shops I've questioned about repairing mine won't even touch it.  Some even go so far as to call them "unrepairable".  Mine needs a complete rewinding, that's all I know for sure.  Anyhoo, here it is.  Maybe I can help you if it's similar:

Here's the brush assembly on mine:

Cast iron wheels btw.

Hope this helps!

Becky

[George Thill]

Thanks Becky and  Mitchell for your responses: since I posted I got the needed answer from a friend not on the forum. The brass collor with the screw (as in your photo) slides right off the brush tube so you can replace the brushes and springs.

Enjoy the 4th!

George Thill