I am a new user / collector of American Flyer trains and animated structures. I have just finished restoring a 751 log loader. Looks great, lifts and unloaders log just fine. My problem is that the large rotating wheel will run past the stop tigger and contiunes on. The trip actuator is in place but it is acting as if it actuator is too short not allowing the motor to stop before it is started again. I am considering installing a felt washer between the bottom of the motor and the wheel to stop it from coasting. Any other suggestions. Please help Phil
If you are going to be doing a lot of AF refurb you might consider getting Tom Barker's books "Gilbert American Flyer S Gauge Operating and Repair Guide" (On Amazon). In Volume 1 he addresses this specific issue with the log loader as part of his chapter on repairing Flyer accessories. Basically there is a spring switch on the underside of the frame next to the cabin that is activated by a cam on the wheel. This acts to break the motor circuit when the device is at full travel. If the cam is misaligned or the switch is bent down too far, then the contact is not broken and the wheel keeps spinning. You need to fiddle with the switch until it opens properly when enaged by the cam.
I have figured out what is wrong with my brain! On the left side nothing works right, and on the right side there is nothing left!
Manage to solve the problem fo the wheel coasting past the center. The cross shaft in the drive box had too much play. Use a piece of shim stock to make washers to compenate. Also increased the length of the trigger on the wheel by 1/4" in the forward direction. Works perfectly stops in the center.
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