I have this interesting loco, with very common LIMA problem, ballast zinkpest. Using hacksaw I removed the excess of material, fortunately before the irreparable damage. But do you believe I solved the further similar problems? BTW, is it about the starter set model, since there is no lighting?
The problem with the expansion of the Lima lead weights is well known. The problem is related to the faulty production of the lead weights (contamination, cavities, etc.). Most affected are models from the production period 1980-1985.
In general, it is recommended to check Lima locomotives with lead weights in between, because after a certain point of time the frame and the housing will be damaged.
A detailed description of the problem with the Lima lead weights can be found on the following page: Bahnwahn.de - Lima Gewicht
Hi and thank you for link to "Bahnwahn" which I know very well. Btw. when it is about model railway terminology, I needn't translation from German language. So, this is a current state, three months after the intervention. I think that it is quite O.K.