Can't get my trains to run

When the engine shuts down do you still have lights on the layout or do they go off too?

What was the last thing you did or can remember doing after every thing was working?

No lights the ZW chuts down.

The first time was when I ran them right before Thanksgiving.  I don't usually have time in the summer & fall

Ken M

If the whole layout goes dead then it's power issue. are you sure all 3 bricks are working?

All three bricks are working,  I tested all the track for voltage  & the meters on the ZW all have voltage.

ZW-C?  Look here. ZW-C chip. 

Most people if careful can change it without removing the circuit board. 

If this is the one that came out several years ago I have already replaced it.  I guess it could go bad.  I wonder how to test it for sure.

Ken M

Will a engine run if your turn off all the lights?

No, all of the light are LED

Ken M

if you replaced the chip already that probably not the issue. 

How did you make out,did you ever find anything?

Doug

No luck & if the ZW is bad I am told that there are no parts available

Ken M

There's always this option.

ZW-C with Volt/Amp Meter accessory, with or without two 180W bricks.

That is what I have know except I have 3 bricks 

Why not try this makeup 2 wires with metal connector crimped on attach the wires to the plug end normally connected to the zwc and the other 2 ends to middle and outer rails of one loop of track. If all works then issue is the zwc!

Also look for an errant screw nail or???? That's creating a short.

That's strange.  When you put any engine on any track on the layout it shuts off the power; track, lights and everything.  Everything is fine till you put an engine on the track.  Huh

StPaul, I will have to try that, the ZWC is in the shop being checked out.  I will post when I get it back.  I any one has any other ideas please let me know.  

Thank you for all the inputs so far

Ken M

To add to StPaul, Can you borrow a known functioning transformer from a friend?  then you could isolate various parts of your layout and see if you can locate the problem.  Of course if no problem surfaces you can be sure the issue is the transformer.  One other thought, if you have an ohm meter, isolate sections of the layout and look for a short.

StPaul, I jury rigged my CW80  & ran three of my 3 trains and all wal well.  No flashing lights or anything.  They ran just like they are suppose to.

Ken M