Replacement motor for LL plastic E8

[Doug G.]

Yup, same motor. Usually well-balanced and strong.

Doug

[u18b]

Yep Max.  I think so.

The problem with the old Fs was not the motors-  they were great.

It was the high friction trucks and the spring drives.

[Doug G.]

I don't even think those are the biggest drawbacks with the Life-Like F7(9)s. I have three and they all run very smoothly and quietly. It's the appearance that's the problem. Too big and the nose is badly done. It really spoils the illusion.

Doug

[mmagliaro]

Yup, same motor. Usually well-balanced and strong.

Doug

+1 on that motor.  That thing is awesome. 

ClubberLang1:
Okay, I'll spill, I have some from the F units.  it has short shafts on each end and no flywheels, but if you can't get your E8 to work and you need a motor, contact me with a PM.

[u18b]

I don't even think those are the biggest drawbacks with the Life-Like F7(9)s. I have three and they all run very smoothly and quietly. It's the appearance that's the problem. Too big and the nose is badly done. It really spoils the illusion.

Doug

True.  Was wasn't even thinking about the shell.  Just about performance.
The reason they run as well as they do is because the have a super-powerful excellent quality motor and a half a ton of lead weight.  If LL had also used better trucks, they would run even better.

[mmagliaro]

True.  Was wasn't even thinking about the shell.  Just about performance.
The reason they run as well as they do is because the have a super-powerful excellent quality motor and a half a ton of lead weight.  If LL had also used better trucks, they would run even better.

All true. 

But back in the 90s when we could buy those for 18 bucks, that was an absolute steal.
Sure, the paint was thick, and they didn't have the fine looks of a Kato... but they were 18 bucks and they ran well and pulled great.  I always thought those engines were the "Athearn" of N Scale.   And by that, I mean the HO scale Athearn that model railroading grew up with: medium-priced,  reliable, consistent, and durable.  I think products like that are crucial for inviting new people to try out the hobby and the scale.