Milanodan: Remag. wouldn't be necessary if there is a way to remove and replace the Magnetraction magnet in the frame.
While some of the Alnico alloys (esp. 5 and 8) make very strong magnets, they can lose it very easily--unlike the rare-earth magnets.
So, is it difficult to replace the magnet in a steamer?
I posed this question to someone who has long-time Lionel train repair experience:
Quote:
Most Lionel diesels with magnetraction have the magnets in the axles and
therefore replacing them is not practicable. Some alco units like the 2023 have
the magnet glued to the power frame and could be replaced with a thin
rectangular magnet.
Steamers have magnets in different locations. Some, like the turbine, have
a cylindrical magnet in a pocket and could be replaced easily enough. The 773
has magnets on the gear box cover and are very accessible.
I believe the rare earth magnets come in just about any shape.
You have to
be careful to make sure the polarity is correct when replacing the magnet and
use a good bonding agent that can withstand shock and vibration.
If anyone chooses to experiment, Alnico magnets are still available: http://www.magnetsales.com/Alnico/Al1.htm, though rare earth (
neodymium ) magnets are by far the strongest in their magnetic properties.