I have an Echo train set, bought approximately 1989. I'm trying to get it going again after many years of storage. Should it have a remote control? Are there any places that restore them?

SOURCE: i bought the set last year of holiday lionel

If all cars are not properly on the track, the engine does not have enough power to pull the cars. Try with engine and coal car only to zero in on cause.

SOURCE: WE are trying to get our lionel holiday train

There is no on/off switch. Remote will give no indication of working. Try putting engine and coal car only and try. I have had this train set for two years and the remote tends to work whenever it wants.

SOURCE: Train makes sounds but does not move

There are bateries all over the place in this toy. two AAs in the remote, two button bateries in the tender and also two AAs in the engine, did you do the ones in the engine?

SOURCE: remote control train won't work

The wires will have pulled off the circuit board inside.

Remove screws (force a hex driver in there) and solder wire back on.

Train surgey (geddit) is very fiddly. Have a drink first! ;-)

SOURCE: GEOTRAX REMOTES ARE NOTE COMMUNICATING

I had the same problem with two of our three engines. I read somewhere that you can get them running by hitting the side of the engine against a hard surface. I can't believe it... IT WORKED! I guess the motor gets stuck and hitting it will get it going. All three engines are working now.