I would recommend you first try replacing the old Alnico magnets with new rare earth "Supermagnets" Super Magnets, 20 pieces (micromark.com)
Wow, good stuff right there!! Thanks for the info......
Rich
Hi there. The person who was expert in this passed away only a few months ago... Mel really knew his stuff. He contributed to a number of threads on this topic. I suggest you do this: Go on google and type
site:https://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/ mel rivarossi motor
And you will find a number of these excellent threads.
Simon
Well, it's back to the basement again to work on the trains!! I put the hot rod away for the winter, and now need to finish up last years project that sat on the bench all summer waiting patiently. I have an old rivarossi 2-8-8-2 mallet with twin motors that are old and weak. I have seen some evilbay replacements but not sure of the rpm's I should choose from. Anyone done something like this and what rpm motor would you reccomend ?? Thanks in advance,