This paper presents the analysis of thrust characteristics of linear induction motor (LIM) using the three dimensional finite element method (3D FEM). In the LIM thrust characteristics, the transverse edge effect influences the thrust and conduction path of secondary reaction plate. Therefore, in this study, we examined the impacts of the edge effects with using 3D FEM analysis. The LIM of the full model was analyzed with 3D FEM and 2D FEM, and the thrust characteristics were compared. Five types of the secondary overhang model with and without cap were considered.