I have inherited a 275 wattZW, and I am wondering if I should re-wire it myself (I am a novice at soldering) and replace as many parts as possible or should IO pay for someone else to do it? I was quoted at $225 plus parts and shipping, but from what I have seen on how to do it, I think that this is too high
That does sound high, crazy high. Parts are available and if they're priced like the parts I purchased to get some of my old Lionel locomotives running, they should be quite affordable. The attachment is worth a look as are some YouTube videos probably. I had a ZW and planned to repair it, but as the years passed by, I decided instead to sell it. I remember there's a trick to replacing the rollers.
I have watched a video of the restoration of a ZW (just because I HAD to see what is inside of them) and it gets pretty involved, especially in the area of the rollers as Dan indicated. An incredible design, in my opinion. Doug
Myself, I would not take on the project. I would find a reputable person. TCA might be able to guide you to someone in your area. Is there a kit available? I know the contact rollers in each throttle wear out. (Usually indicated by loose handles.) Getting a new, proper (Lionel) AC cord is mandatory. Is everything intact? No cracks, etc, etc? Who quoted that price? I hope they are a professional in the Lionel repair trade? Cost should be mostly in the labor. It does take some work to disassemble, clean up, repair and reassemble. Their price seems good to me. Your initial cost for the ZW is zero. After rebuild it will be right in there for value. Actually worth more than what you have just invested. Prices you see on the Internet can be wildly all over the place. The least expensive will usually need the same repairs as yours.
