Hi all,

First time to forums and new to model trains...

I inherited a box with an old O gauge train set from a family member. My family member thinks the locomotive is broken because he couldn't get the set running.

Having no experience at all with model trains I decided to see if I could get it going...

As a quick test I hooked up the transformer to a single piece of track and set the locomotive on it. The transformer's green light glowed and I could hear an slight audible buzz when adjusting the throttle? levers. The locomotive did not budge...

Trouble shooting thus far...

• Used fine grit sand paper to clean rails + locomotive contacts to ensure clean contact points.
• Verified connection between transformer terminals and rail by multimeter. Common is going to outer rails and positive to inner.
• Lubed locomotive gears using WD-40.

None of this seemed to help.


I attempted to disassemble the locomotive to look for any obvious faults. I removed the casing to find a missing screw and some broken plastic pieces on the outer shell of the motor casing. Looks like someone attempted to get in here before... I wasn't able to dig further because I can't figure out how to remove the wheels.

Any input is appreciated... What can I do?

Lionel Transformer type-zw
Lionel 1001 Scout - The engine casing says 1001 but google says the  locomotive shell that goes over 1001s are plastic.... mine is metal... so I don't know?