Part Number Structure

Check these alternate part numbers:

8857-151 / 8857-161 motor truck assembly w / w/o sensor.

Hey we got a match haha thank you so much! How did you know those were alternate part numbers???

I would check out # 680-3625-570. For LionChief, This may be a better match. X# 630-8249-101.

Bill, I would second your request for knowing what system is used in Lionel's parts naming convention.  Although there does seem to be some sort of method to it, it's unclear what that may be and also seems to be somewhat inconsistent.  Anybody have some insights to share as to how Lionel assigns part numbers and how they can be deciphered?

@Chuck Sartor posted:

I would check out # 680-3625-570. For LionChief, This may be a better match. X# 630-8249-101.

I am watching this. Particularly because I would like to get an LC+2.0 board to upgrade my old RS3. I do have some doubts about being able to buy one though.

@SteveH posted:

Bill, I would second your request for knowing what system is used in Lionel's parts naming convention.  Although there does seem to be some sort of method to it, it's unclear what that may be and also seems to be somewhat inconsistent. 

I started a spreadsheet on lunch yesterday looking at my old RS3, an unpowered RS3, and an LC+ RS3. Hopefully that will help me decipher it. They look to be shared with some GP38s so I might try to track those down as well.

Just wanted to follow up on this. I have not cracked any codes from Lionel for their part numbers but I did get that RS3 back up and running. Holy nostalgia! It's got a basic can motor with no flywheel. The whole engine is very light. It makes a heck of a noise, especially when I hit the horn. It was fun going back to basics and driving conventional. Here's a quick video:

Now...I gotta figure out which route I want to pursue for command control! TMCC, LC+2.0 (if I can get boards), or Legacy (probably not but maybe if I can get boards). Thanks for the help finding parts!!