Arnold D. Cribari posted:Dan, I don't have a direct answer to your question about what particular coal works with the 397 coal loader, but will share my experience with Postwar Lionel coal loaders.
As a child I had a 397 coal loader with the coal that came with it, and always had trouble getting the coal to work. It would also get stuck under the red belt and screw things up.
As an adult I got the Postwar 97 coal loader that has always worked like a charm. Here it is:
Interesting, Arnold. I was thinking of replacing the 397 with a 497 that I have. I think my grandson will get more enjoyment out of it and not get frustrated trying to make the 397 work. He's ten and has many interests, which doesn't allow for too much tinkering time. And I don't want him to get discouraged.
