Lionel troubleshooting not running but lights are on

hi Pkragan.
all i can find is the manual so not sure if this will be of any help to you.
Lionel Holiday Tradition Express Owner Manual Troubleshooting

Yes, but before I took the set to a model train dealer I would check the basics. Depending how the unit is stored I would assume that corrosion(oxide) has built up between the electrical components.

This is so common that it can be assumed to be a normal maintenance activity.

The connections from the power to the track, between the tracks and between the engine wheels and the track.

Setting up on a table top allows for convenient troubleshooting.
A voltmeter provides a good tool for efficient analysis of the electrical circuit.

Using a soft cloth rub/polish the rails to eliminate oxide/grime built up.
Use an eraser to scrub the connections between the rails,

I've included several links to provide you with examples of problems and solutions.

Merry Christmas

Hope this helps?



Troubleshooting Ready To Run Lionel Train Sets
Setting Up Your Lionel Train Set
How To Fix Problem With Lionel Fastrak With Voltage Drop Fastrack Connection Pin Fix

Have you checked to see if the direction switch is on? Most Lionel locomotives can be set to run in one direction by turning the direction sequencing off. This is true for the newer electronic direction circuits and the older electromechanical E-units. Sometimes the direction units fail and the locomotive will only go in one direction or sits in neutral. If that is the case, the direction unit will need to be serviced (mechanical type) or replaced (electronic type). Go to Lionel.com for additional information and help.

Check to make certain that the batteries in the remote are good. Make sure that when using the remote, you orient the antenna in an upright position and are within 6 to 8 feet of the locomotive.
If the train has been running successfully and the problem has only just started, clean your wheels and the pick up roller on the locomotive removing any fluff etc. then clean the track. If the loco is still not working contact the Lionel Service Department on
586 949 4100 or use their website contact service. Contact Lionel Trains

It sounds like the gears have worn out or come adrift somehow. You will be able to get replacement gears from any of the Lionel authorised dealers Lionel Authorized Dealers or their replacement parts service Replacement Parts

First, check to make certain that the batteries in the remote are good.
Second, if the train has been running and the problem is new, clean your wheels and pick up roller on the locomotive, then clean the track.
Make certain that when you use the remote, you orient the antenna in an upright position and are within 6 to 8 feet of the locomotive.
If none of the above helps, contact the Lionel Service Department.
586-949-4100

you may have to use a Lionel transformer for this because some older trains worked on AC current not the DC current that this train uses

Yes. Find a Lionel repair shop or bring it to a local hobby store that does model train repairs. You can contact Lionel for a list of repair shops.

It sounds as though you may have two defective transformers. Lionel has reported problems with some of their smaller transformers. I would have the transformers and the engines checked by a Lionel service station or contact their customer service department for help.