rodofcv Posted September 30, 2019 Share Posted September 30, 2019 Recently as part of a legacy I became the owner of quite a large amount of 00 gauge railway 'stuff'. Among the items was an Airfix 0–6–0 Fowler 4F ref (54122 – 6) tender driven locomotive which doesn't run. I'm not (yet!) a model railway enthusiast but I would like to see this loco back in working order. I dismantled the tender to get to the motor and found that both brush springs were missing – possibly twanged to the wide blue yonder years ago. Looking on the net I can't find any reference to Airfix brushes or brush springs – not altogether surprising. I may be wrong but I thought there was a possibility that Airfix bought in motors and if so I could look for the springs under a different name. I hope that one of you learned gentlemen could give me help and guidance. Many thanks Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steamport Southport Posted September 30, 2019 Share Posted September 30, 2019 Try Peters Spares. They do them. Although they might be under Hornby as some of the ex Airfix models still use (or did until recently) the same types of motor such as the 2P and Dean Goods. Or they will have an equivalent. https://www.petersspares.com/ Jason Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
mossdp Posted September 30, 2019 Share Posted September 30, 2019 You will probably find that these are small coil springs. Those for Hornby or Lima ringfield motors will probably be suitable depending on their diameter - if too long can be trimmed. Brushes likewise can be used from other makes. If a round block brush, that is slightly too big, it can be made to fit. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold The Johnster Posted September 30, 2019 RMweb Gold Share Posted September 30, 2019 If too short, they can be stretched; the only requirement is that the coil spring is a reasonable fit in the hole and holds the carbon brush against the commutator. Commutators are of course people who travel to work each day.... While you've got the tender body off, check the plastic gears for splits and that the wires are soldered firmly in place. If this model has been out of use for a while, you may need to replace perished rubber traction tyres, also available from Peter's. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
rodofcv Posted September 30, 2019 Author Share Posted September 30, 2019 Thank you all. I have ordered some ringfield springs and hope for the best. The length can be altered and even the diameter with tiny long nosed pliers (maybe)! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
cypherman Posted September 30, 2019 Share Posted September 30, 2019 (edited) Hi, You do not say if you actually have the carbon brushes for the motor. Please remember that the springs are only there to apply pressure on the carbon brushes and make an electrical contact. they are not there to be applied directly to the commutator. If you try and use the springs without the brushes at best the motor will not run and at worst you will damage the motor. Edited September 30, 2019 by cypherman Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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