Help needed to repair LL USRA 0-8-0

[mkearns]

I obtained an N scale LL/Proto USRA 0-8-0 switcher off eBay. It was the C&O model #362 and pretty hard to find, so I was excited to get it.

Based on spookshow's site, the C&O models are from the second run, which was supposed to have addressed many issues from the first run. But my copy is kind of a basket case.

The locomotive constantly derails. The tender lifts the rear drivers so it can’t pull. And it had an occasional hitch in the step. I've had some other steam apart to fix small issues and clean/lube. But my attempts to fix the 0-8-0 made it worse - the drive gear locked up, I broke a wire on the tender plug, and somehow one came loose on the motor too. So now it's dead.

I've read a number of threads here about improving the model and have seen some impressive work, including "Kato Mikado-izing" the drivetrain, balancing tender/drivers, adding weight, and rewiring/decoderizing that is beyond me.

I was wondering if any of the gurus here might be willing to take a look at it. I would pay for time and parts. Right now it's just a shelf queen and I'd love to have it running again. I've got designs for a switching layout that I would love to use this for.

Much appreciated.

[Rasputen]

I can take a look at it if you want to send it to me.

One thing I really hate about Life-Like steam is that you can't store them in the original box with the tender connected.  The shape of the wiring when it is plugged in is pretty crucial to its operation.
As you noted, the harness is easy to damage by unplugging it.  I bought some JST style pins and some very expensive flexible wire so I can repair mine.
I would love to find some old MRC style boxes with the rails in the base so that I can keep these all connected and ready to run.

[Mike C]

@ Rasputen  Take an HO scale box from something like an Intermountain box car kit and line it with foam .      Mike