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Lionel 8902 motor (I know, I know)

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  • Member since
    January 2016
  • 115 posts
Lionel 8902 motor (I know, I know)
Posted by the nitro man on Saturday, October 8, 2022 8:23 PM

I know, I know, this engine isn't really worth repairing, but this little 8902 was my first Lionel train set I got for Christmas in 1980 or 81 from my parents. It's what got me started into Lionel trains. The little engine lasted 40 years until the motor burned out. I need a motor and Lionel doesn't sell it anymore, so I figure a repower is the next step. My mom passed away this past July and I want to get it running again because I know how hard she worked to be able to get me this for me. I could go on eBay and buy another one, but I already feel guilty for replacing the shell (I know I shouldn't, but I do). Does anyone know of a replacement motor that will fit or happen to have an old clunker 8902 they would part out?

Thanks 

  • Member since
    February 2014
  • 520 posts
Posted by Leverettrailfan on Sunday, October 9, 2022 3:40 PM

You're in luck- I have a parts loco with a good motor. I've been on the fence about what to do with it, since it's missing enough parts that I haven't been sure if I want to try to patch it all together. But it sounds like you probably have more use for it than I do.

-Ellie

"Unless bought from a known and trusted dealer who can vouch otherwise, assume every train for sale requires servicing before use"

  • Member since
    July 2020
  • 1,631 posts
Posted by pennytrains on Sunday, October 9, 2022 4:48 PM

Sorry to hear about your loss!  Just remember that this is a judgment free zone.  Your trains and your memories are paramount.  Your train has a value that nothing else can match!  Big SmileThumbs Up

Big Smile  Same me, different spelling!  Big Smile

  • Member since
    September 2004
  • From: Middle o' Nowhere, MO
  • 1,108 posts
Posted by palallin on Monday, October 10, 2022 8:31 AM

Repairs like these are labors of love, not investments.  Worth is in the eye of the beholder. 

  • Member since
    January 2016
  • 115 posts
Posted by the nitro man on Wednesday, October 12, 2022 10:12 AM

Thanks everyone. I rarely run this engine, but it means a lot to me personally.

Ellie, i think I found a new unused motor, if it doesn't pan out I'll let you know about the parts engine you have. 

  • Member since
    January 2016
  • 115 posts
Posted by the nitro man on Saturday, October 15, 2022 4:09 PM

Hennings trains had a new motor. I had put a electronic reverse board in it a few years back, and either the motor or reverse board took the other one out. I put it back to full time DC current just to be safe. 

Thanks everyone 

  • Member since
    February 2014
  • 520 posts
Posted by Leverettrailfan on Monday, October 17, 2022 7:49 PM

Really glad to hear everything worked out- I hope you and your 8902 have many more years of fun together!

-Ellie

"Unless bought from a known and trusted dealer who can vouch otherwise, assume every train for sale requires servicing before use"

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