What would cause an MTH Amtrak diesel(Surfliner) engine to run well for about 5 minutes and then just stop while running on the layout? I have replaced the battery with a BCR in hopes that the problem was perhaps caused by a bad battery but that didn't stop the problem with this particular engine. The engine does slow down and then surge for a short time before just stopping. Thanks in advance for your help.
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Is it a Protosound 1 engine? I have an EP-5 that will run fine for a bit then it slams to a stop suddenly. I was told the issue is likely a bad bottom board. They can be found for sale on the forum from time to time.
Ron
This is a Proto 2 engine. It does run okay for a short period of time and then it starts to surge and then just stops. The passenger station sounds are working fine along with the whistle and bell. When it stops then the ZW shorts out too and I have to reset the fuses. No problems with my other engines.
My Y6b had a problem like this, and it was short between the boards that caused it. Specifically, there was supposed to be a piece of tape between the boards, but a prior owner left it out when reassembling the engine.
Does this happen on a curve? The guys all gave you good info to look at. How about if you take the cab off and look at the two wires (hot and ground) that go through the frame and connect to your truck. Look for them to be touching or rubbing against your frame. Due to the fact the fuse is taking a hit this might be your situation.
Does this happen on a curve? The guys all gave you good info to look at. How about if you take the cab off and look at the two wires (hot and ground) that go through the frame and connect to your truck. Look for them to be touching or rubbing against your frame. Due to the fact the fuse is taking a hit this might be your situation.
Thanks for the tip. I will check it out tomorrow. Thanks!
Does this happen on a curve? The guys all gave you good info to look at. How about if you take the cab off and look at the two wires (hot and ground) that go through the frame and connect to your truck. Look for them to be touching or rubbing against your frame. Due to the fact the fuse is taking a hit this might be your situation.
I would second this recommendation. If this appears to be the issue try some liquid electrical tape on the wires and a bit on the frame. This solved a similar problem that I had with an MTH diesel.
Ken
Does this happen on a curve? The guys all gave you good info to look at. How about if you take the cab off and look at the two wires (hot and ground) that go through the frame and connect to your truck. Look for them to be touching or rubbing against your frame. Due to the fact the fuse is taking a hit this might be your situation.
I would second this recommendation. If this appears to be the issue try some liquid electrical tape on the wires and a bit on the frame. This solved a similar problem that I had with an MTH diesel.
Ken
I have not heard of liquid electrical tape...where can one purchase this and would the electrical black tape work just as well. Thanks again.
Does this happen on a curve? The guys all gave you good info to look at. How about if you take the cab off and look at the two wires (hot and ground) that go through the frame and connect to your truck. Look for them to be touching or rubbing against your frame. Due to the fact the fuse is taking a hit this might be your situation.
I would second this recommendation. If this appears to be the issue try some liquid electrical tape on the wires and a bit on the frame. This solved a similar problem that I had with an MTH diesel.
Ken
I have not heard of liquid electrical tape...where can one purchase this and would the electrical black tape work just as well. Thanks again.
Any full line hardware store should have it.
For me trying to get regular electric tape into a tight space with tiny wires (and big hands) is beyond fustrating.
http://www.gandermountain.com/...&cID=GSHOP_28039
Ken
I did try the liquid electrical tape last night and let it dry overnight. This morning I ran the engine for over ten minutes and it ran without the surges and did not shut down at all. So far so good! Thanks to everyone for their tips. Phil.
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