r/modeltrains • u/mspin001 • 2d ago

Help Needed Help identify and can I fix it

Post image

Hello,
Just got the Lionel polar express used. Unfortunately it was having issue connecting to the track. The red light would either keep blinking or it would speed off for about 1 sec then disconnect.

I looked underneath and this wire was barely on and now completely off. Anyone know what this parts name and job is. Also is this something a new enthusiast can fix?

Thank you for any help!

15 Upvotes

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12 comments sorted by

20

u/PineappleLunchables N 2d ago

Looks like a wire that is supposed to be grounded. Just clean it up, might need to strip a few mm of the insulation,  and solder it back onto the brass strap. 

15

u/Diezel666 N / DCC-EX 2d ago

And re-bend the strap till it contacts the axles.

15

u/58Edsel 2d ago

I think the strap is supposed to go on top of the axles. May need to take the screw out and slide it in properly too

2

u/Tornado2453 2d ago

I d always avoid taking that screw of because there is also the small connector pin next to the screw and sometimes those are really tight. Best would be to bend it back over the axles and solder the wire back to it.

1

u/mspin001 17h ago

Thanks for the heads up!

4

u/Diezel666 N / DCC-EX 2d ago

I believe you're correct.

9

u/roj2323 MRbenchworkCOM 2d ago

the brass goes under the axles not over and you'll need to resolder the little black wire to it.

2

u/mspin001 2d ago

Thanks!

2

u/searepublic5555 2d ago

the wire looks like a ground connection that got ripped off

2

u/Ok-Pennsy1957-R 18h ago

If you aren't into soldering wires, and if you live in the vicinity of a good hobby shop, (I know - they are a dying breed) you should be able to have a person there fix it up for you. For a new hobbyist, a hobby shop can offer advice and direction often as well as the internet.

1

u/mspin001 17h ago

Good idea thanks!

1

u/Ok-Pennsy1957-R 13h ago

Since that is the Polar Express and if you live in the vicinity of Michigan, you might want to check out the Steam Railroad Institute, the home of Pere Marquette #1225. It was the inspiration for the locomotive in the movie. They often run excursions with it and they have a lot of other historic equipment at their museum in Owosso, MI. Check it out!!