Thanks to both of you for the information. After checking the engine further, I see what you both are telling me - driveshaft is just for looks, except to actuate the piston rods. I did my best to lubricate all the bearings and gears, as the YouTube videos explained and the engine is up, running, and back in service! It pulls a consist of flatcars on an overhead track in a local feed store. I got tired of not seeing it run and volunteered for at least a year to help diagnose/fix problems they were having. Dust, track corrosion, and overlubricating were the culprits. Very gratifying to be able to solve the mystery and see positive results. Thanks again!

George

I am helping a local business get their Bachmann 3-truck Shay locomotive up and running again. My question: Is the tender supposed to connect (add power to) the drivetrain? The drive shaft is there and connected, but appears to freewheel. The front two trucks are directly connected to each other via the drive shaft. The tender is providing pulling power, but appears to be independent and the drive shaft to/from it is just for appearances. Is this the way it is supposed to be? And, if not, should it be an important issue?

They have used who-knows-what to terribly over lubricate it. I have watched the videos on how to properly lubricate everything, but are there any suggestions on how to clean up the greasy, oily mess before I do so?

Thanks for any advice you can give me!