The 97 was the first of Lionel's remote control freight loaders/unloaders and the first in an extensive line of coal-handling accessories. Used in conjunction with Lionel's automatic dump cars, the 97 provides a continuous cycle of operating action.

An automatic dump car, such as Lionel's 3459, positioned on a remote control track section at the conveyor side of the 97, unloads coal into the receiving bin. Turning the knob on the controller starts the conveyer chain and tips the receiving bin so that a series of tiny buckets can carry coal up to the tower bin, which has a capacity of several carloads. Pressing the button on the controller sends coal cascading from the tower, through a chute, and into a waiting hopper or dump car.

This #97 is in excellent condition and operates properly. Includes controller.