In a post I responded to a week or so ago I mentioned that we had been told at the Lionel Warehouse Sale that we were welcome to bring any locomotive that needed repairs to Service center in Concord NC, and we could watch them being fixed and tested. I had the opportunity to go visit the new facility today and had a really great experience.
I had two S Gauge Steamers that were not smoking very well, so it was time for repairs. Dean at Lionel is a great guy, and repaired both my Challenger and my new Y3. He repacked the smoke boxes with the fiberglas wicking material and replaced the fan motors in both locomotives. They now operate better than new. These are both Legacy locomotives and are pretty impressive pieces I am pretty excited to have them smoking so well, and hope the rebuild lasts.
I don't know if Lionel is listening, but if so, Mike this was a great experience, Dean you did a great job, and thanks for an enjoyable and educational visit. Phil, those new trucks went on my caboose just fine, thank you too.
Aflyer