Thank you, Carl, for the additional comments that add to those posted in the lengthy thread found at:
https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...rk-production-photos
The part numbers for blackened drive rods will be found to be useful by many. This does beg the question of why did not Lionel use those parts in the first place. By the way, regarding your review, the instruction manual does not mention removing the shell for normal lubrication maintenance (See page 30). A caveat might be made that removing the shell runs the risk of voiding the warranty during its period.
Thanks again. Enjoy!
Bob