I just went through a 228 that had the idler gear stub shafts broken loose and the gears hitting the drive wheels. This requires complete dissemble to remove the idler gears and replace the stub shafts, which are pressed into the frame
This is a very early 1939 228 as indicated by the design of the rear tender truck. The coupler is articulated and in addition to being attached to a drawbar off the truck, it has a pivot point on the sheet metal frame. This arrangement keeps the coupler box centered over the center rail on curves.
The motor was in good condition only requiring resurfacing the commutator. The front coupler needed a new wire into the coil as all the old insulation had fallen off. The e-unit was missing the drum. It had jumpers installed that would have kept the locomotive running forward only. It was reconditioned using a few scarce spare parts. The drive train was in good condition, but cleaning and relubrication was required. All the wiring, except the center rail harness, was replaced, mostly just for convenience. All the parts needed a heavy cleaning as everything was covered with oil and dirt. This apparently did prevented any rust.
Everything is now back together and running will.
