Why has my Lionel train stopped working?

Question

I have a Postwar 685 ATSF Hudson steam model train (its not a really a steam engine, its just called that- it has an electric motor) which stopped working. Whenever I put it on the tracks and tried it out, sparks would come from the motor and there'd be a buzzing noise. The motor doesn't rotate. The track is clean, and I cleaned the motor nicely with alcohol. What could be wrong?

Answer 1

the polarity might be reversed or might not be right.

Answer 2

The electric motor is shot to h**l

Answer 3

Replace the motor

Answer 4

There is a short circuit somewhere.

Dismantle the locomotive and check carefully for electric contact where there shouldn't be.

Either a wire is touching where it shouldn't or else, a wheel is touching the chassis where it shouldn't and should be insulated from the mainframe.

Answer 5

Here would be a better place to go for a good answer:

http://www.trains.com/TRC/CS/forums/defa...