smaricic
Hello  & Welcome to the Forum!
Worn out locomotive? Really?
Motor doesn't run?
Wheels falling off?
Most probably your locomotive needs a thorough maintenance.
My newest locomotive a 1946 221 Dreyfuss Hudson just gets routine maintenencae.
My other is a 1937. l will admit it is starting to get a little zinc pest, but it too just receives
routine maintenance
Honestly, l dont own a Lionel that runs on O27 track newer than the Drefuss.
My other's, Lionel Standard Gauge & Wind Ups are 1917 to mid 30's

Ok, basicly You want a Scout. There's alot of them out there and reasonably priced.
lf you want something newer, the plastic MPC era loco's are available.
After those you start gettingmore bells & whistles...more stuff to break/wear out.
l see Scout's & Scout type locomotives, in very good to like new for 50 to 75$ all the time.
You can find Good,Used locomotives that your grand children will play with quite easily. Just dont get sucked into the auction fever & over pay.

check out our for sale/trade sub forum, maybe someones offering something you'd like..
my locomotives are in the gallery if you want a look.  Honestly, l didn't pay over $100.00 for anything.
Hope this is of some help.
Happy Rails!
dave

You should be able to get a Lionel 2026 on e-bay at a reasonable price.  I have three plus a 2036 and a prewar 1668.  I have to keep them clean inside and out to run great, so maintenance is regular.  You can run almost anything on 027 that has 6 drivers.  If you get 8 drivers you need "O"  If you are going to have a lot of trains you should get "Greenberg's Repair and Operating Manual.  It has helped me a LOT!