Setting those Culvert Loaders and Unloaders up to work right can be tricky. They use what Lionel called a Vibrotor motor that is just an oscillating coil with an armature used to pull and release a string around a pulley to create motion. That string should be under tension supplied by a small light spring. That tension must be set just right to get motion. If the pulley cannot be rotated by hand with no string attached then it must first be freed to rotate freely before trying to set the string tension. Welcome to a great forum.
I am assuming you purchased a postwar 342, not a modern one. Here is a link that may provide what you are seeking.
https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/topic/postwar-342-culvert-loader-need-help-fixing
swede
aboard!
Becky
Same me, different spelling!
Good afternoon, I just joined the group. I am starting a new layout for to use with my grandkids. I have been purchasing parts and pieces from multiple collectors and resellers. I recently purchased a used Lionel 342 Culvert Loader. I have looked at several diagrams, wrapped and re-wrapped the string, loosened and tightened the spring. Everything I have tried will not keep the pulleys moving. It works well for 15 to 30 seconds and then slows or even stops. With Plastic pulleys oil is out of the question, I have run it without the e clamps in place, with only the first pulley in place with the string, and a couple of other combinations. Should I replace the string? Use Graphite on the pulleys? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you. Doug.
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