Ives 3241: Not moving, buzzing and smoking

Alex hi,

I can't specifically answer your questions about who or how much as I do my own work (so far). However, maybe some points to consider. The actual work isn't that difficult, you may want to try yourself especially since you have a running example to go by with the sister engine. Attached photo is a 3252 reverse switch of my first Ives recently bought. The problem I'm experiencing is finding a drawing/schematic that's correct. The ones I did locate from the Ives Society aren't quite right as the second brush requires no wire ( ground to frame itself).  I started out with almost the same problems you mention but have been able to get it running in one direction. Once I get the wiring figured out then can go ahead and replace or put new insulation on as required. Hopefully won't have to pull the roller pickup collector- that's a different ball of wax with those older Ives spoke wheels am sure. 

Your 3241's look like earlier versions with the manual reverse as well?  Realizing your's is standard gauge but believe the motor configuration is probably the same? 

John

I just took the shell off again, and realized how much of a nightmare the wiring is:

Yeah, lots of extra wire (service loops).  Please forgive the attached crude drawing but is what worked for me. Found a finger that wasn't contacting drum properly. Also, had a brush that was down to commutator face. A tinned brush for Lionel 150 humpbacks did the trick being able to get solder on brush holder to keep it tight. 

Hope it helps,

John