Toy Trains Collecting Lionel’s no. 397 coal loader

Lionel’s no. 397 coal loader

By Roger Carp | March 8, 2022

| Last updated on November 7, 2022

This ingenious accessory was the first to need just one track

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Lionel’s no. 397 coal loader

In 1948, Lionel introduced a new coal loader that needed just one track and a dump car to run. Senior Editor Roger Carp explains the history of this coal loader, what was included in the box with your purchase, and how it changed over the years. He explains what makes a more common version and what to look for in the less common version. Editor Hal Miller explains how to maintain and repair this coal loader. The belt often breaks in this accessory but fortunately replacement belts are available. Hal shows you how to take apart the coal loader, and gives you tips on how to put it back together correctly. Last but not least, Hal shows the coal loader in action!

Learn about the American Flyer coal loader.

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