To: Lionel Techs

Are you doing custom valve gear?  Please give a bit more detail.  If you could post your current screw with some dimensions it would be a starting point.   I save all broken valve gear parts and who knows I may be able to help.  

Hi Marty,

I attached a picture to show what I'm trying to accomplish. The black arrow (tooth-picks) show the screw/rivet  I'm referring too.  I have not removed the screw/rivet from the 18009 yet, but the picture of the replacement linkage shows why the screw/rivet shoulder needs to be longer than what is on the 18009.

The reason I can't use the complete valve gear replacement is that the piston-stem on the cross-head is not long enough to reach into the cylinder.  The part number is on the package (in the photo) that the new valve-gear came in.

I see what you want to do.  The replacement valve gear is from what locomotive?   Getting the screw/rivet you need may be tough to come up with.  I will hit my junk box and see if anything is present.    I  think you may end up having a jeweler make you what you need.  Most Lionel gear like you have shown comes assembled.  I will give what I have in the junk box (and new) for you.  

Marty

The valve gear is from a Lionel L-2a, Mohawk.  Part#6308053036

Instead a hex head screw a rivet my be easier to come by.  I am beginning to comprehend why this type of update has not been performed more.

I just finished looking and have nothing that will help.  Keep a Jeweler in mind as they may be able to make you what you need.

Thanks for your effort Marty. I will check out the micro/mini, screw/rivet offerings on the web.

I did this once before with an older Williams brass Hudson that did not have the complete valve gear linkage.  I used rivets vs shoulder screws for the entire process . I'm getting too old for this type of project. Maybe better off just selling the 18009 and purchasing a complete Lionel Mohawk