Menards Caboose

I took one apart to add weights to the interior to correct a 'wobbling' issue and don't recall any problem with getting the shell off. It may be that the shell is just a press fit on the frame and comes off by carefully spreading the shell and lifting off the frame at the same time. I'll check tonight.

As to the lighting issue, it could be that the axle wiper is not making good contact with the axle. Check out this thread ....

Possible Menard's LED Caboose Issue - Resolved | O Gauge Railroading On Line Forum (ogaugerr.com)

Thanks Richie C. I'll definitely take a look at it. I like their products. I don't want to give up on them. Thanks again.

On some cabooses the roof comes off, like on Lionel's.

There is a prior post wherethey say the roof comes off but with effort.

The body comes off the frame. First take the ladders lose, then put a small flathead screwdriver  in the middle of the frame/ body.  Slowly work it to one end. There are two clips on each end that holds the frame to the body. They will simply  snap apart. I've done this several times without a problem. When reassembling, place the two clips on one end in first, then work it to the other end. I added  2 large nuts inside and hot melted them to the frame. It make better contact now and doesn't flicker.  Hope this helps..

@cabinet Bob posted:

The body comes off the frame. First take the ladders lose, then put a small flathead screwdriver  in the middle of the frame/ body.  Slowly work it to one end. There are two clips on each end that holds the frame to the body. They will simply  snap apart. I've done this several times without a problem. When reassembling, place the two clips on one end in first, then work it to the other end.I added  2 large nuts inside and hot melted them to the frame. It make better contact now and doesn't flicker. Hope this helps..

Would you have a pic of that, Bob ?

I pulled the roof off of the caboose. It came off without difficulty. All of the wiring looked well soldered. The contact strips were on the axles. I suspect the problem is in that motherboard. I'm not touching it though. Any suggestions?

My caboose lights went out also.  It’s easy to take the cab off.  You have to break the glue that’s holding the ladders in place and just pry off from the bottom. 4 snap tabs hold it in place. I applied voltage to the terminals on the board inside and it is dead.  No lights.
anyone know where to get replacement?

or just buy a new one I guess.  They are cheap.
however if I just want the LEDs to work without flashing can’t I just add some diode and resistor and throw away the faulty board?

any specific suggestions would be appreciated.

I am very happy that Menards is buiding trains. Some day, I would like to see them take the quality of their trains up a notch. Probaly cost a little more but I don't think people would mind. 

The Menards caboose is built like the Lionel caboose.   Snap out the end platforms and the shell comes off.

You can replace the bad board with Evan's Designs 3mm LEDs.  1 white for interior lights and one flashing red for the end of the caboose.  Wire the LEDs to the existing wires from the pick up truck.

Thanks. Gonna try that when I have the time.

@jim sutter posted:

I am very happy that Menards is buiding trains. Some day, I would like to see them take the quality of their trains up a notch. Probaly cost a little more but I don't think people would mind.

Agreed, I also think they are finding their footing. With demand and what’s popular. We need a K-Line like company to jam a finger in eye of the gorilla .