Question on brushes

[yellow_cad]

Are the brush and spring holders just in place with a press fit. I am trying to check the brushes on an older Life Like E8A and the top brush holder is defying me. Just wanted to check and see if I am using the correct procedure. Thanks.

[RR_Mel]

The brushes and springs need to move freely.  Too loose and they will burn the armature and too tight they will score the armature.

 

 

 

Mel

 

Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951

 

 

My Model Railroad   

http://melvineperry.blogspot.com/

 

Bakersfield, California

 

I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.

 

[dstarr]

I don't think you want to remove the brush holder.  Instead, just pop the brush spring off the back of the graphite brush, turn the locomotive over and shake it.  The graphite brush should drop out into your hand.  Take the usual precautions to avoid loosing it.  As long as there is a good deal of brush left, and it isn't cracked or broken, it will be OK.

[yellow_cad]

I don't understand. There is a part (two per motor) that holds the spring and brush in place. The removal of this part is what I am asking about.

[mbinsewi]

Is it the cap that looks like a button?  Maybe try and see if it unscrews.

Worth a try.

Mike