Go see my friend Jim Berilla at the Trading Post Train Shop in Cleveland. He does authorized Lionel repairs and has a huge inventory of Lionel and MTH. If you don't see it, ask about it.
An old-time train store from the 1950s. Phone 216-661-7300 for hours. He is closed several days of the week in the summer. Always open Saturday, though.
Located a few blocks south of the Cleveland Zoo on Pearl Road. About 10 minutes from I-71.
Tell him Dave Warburton sent you and says hi from California.
You will not be disappointed.