Help with Lionel RS-11 6-28528 that doesn’t run

Yes,

Check the pick-up wires and coupler wires in the gap between the trucks and body. They frequently break there.

Terry

Motor was stuck for some reason. Works now.

Wire to one coupler broken. Fixed. Works now. Other coupler buzzed when operated and push on it. Probably needs to be replaced.

How do you drop the trucks to replace coupler or traction tires?

ctr posted:

Motor was stuck for some reason. Works now.

Wire to one coupler broken. Fixed. Works now. Other coupler buzzed when operated and push on it. Probably needs to be replaced.

How do you drop the trucks to replace coupler or traction tires?

Try some dry lube like graphite on the coupler claw. it can hang from factory casting or a hard bump. It can be dressed for fit and better clearance if you have a mind to do it. The buzzing sounds like the coil is fine and trying to move the rod.

One of the guys that take these apart can help with the disassembly procedure. email Marty Fitzhenry or gunrunnerjohn.

I have taken electrocouplers part and smoothed all the latching surfaces and then reassembled them.  It really makes a huge difference, you can couple without crashing into the cars, and they will normally uncouple without trying two-three times.  Obviously, you have to replace the rivet, and I typically replace the knuckle spring as well.

One thing to be aware of on these RS-11's is the magnet on the motor which governs the speed control, they have a tendency to disintegrate. It is an easy fix though. Also, when reassembling the shell, beware of the contacts springs for the LED lights. I had two pop out one time. Definitely try the graphite first - I did this with the stiff couplers on my Alco S switcher and it made a difference.