ISSUE WITH LIONEL 0-8-0

First thing I would check is to see if the hand rails are contacting the frame. They should not be. Sounds like the antenna is either shorted of disconnected. 

This issue sounds like the round magnet on the motor flywheel came loose from the motor and it's hitting the odyssey speed sensor, simply use some CA glue/ super glue and reset the magnet

 

Alex

Alex,

Where should this magnet be located on the flywheel?

Nick,

 

Here's a picture of the motor with the magnet which is the black ring

the speed sensor is under it attached to the motor. I think the magnet came loose

from the brass flywheel and is hitting the sensor and screwing up the odyssey speed control

 

Whoops. Read it as headlights were flashing. 

I found some time this evening to further examine this issue.

 

Following some info. I discovered from a recent thread, I turned track power on, and measured the voltage between the two outside pins on the odyssey board as I rotated the flywheel by hand.  This voltage should isolate between 0 and 5 volts D.C.  My test results showed the voltage fluctuating from 0 to 4.14 volts D.C.; might this be the issue?

 

I also examined flywheel magnet.  It appears the magnet is not loose.  Please see attached photo.

The indication you're getting is that the flywheel and sensor are operating.  Next stop is the DCDS board, it would affect the running as you describe.

 

John,

 

Is there any type of diagnostic test I can try on this board?

There probably is, but since I have spare boards, I normally just perch one on top and plug it in to see if that's the problem.

 

Marty mentioned the antenna, and that's one that causes all sorts of odd symptoms, including sluggish running.  That just bit me today, I forgot to plug one in when I buttoned up a locomotive.  Does it run better with the boiler shell off?

Upon removing the DCDS and its heat sink from the frame mount, the engine started to perform a lot better.  Im guessing that maybe there is loose connection in that board somewhere.

Very likely, check the connectors very closely.  Sometimes a socket pin gets malformed and doesn't make a good connection to the board pins.  You can slip those out of the shell and make sure they're not abused.  Obviously, a very close physical inspection of the board is in order as well, there could be a bad solder joint somewhere, it happens.

Gentlemen,

 

             I ordered a replacement DcdS board through Lionel.  I am happy to report I regained full control after installing the new DCDS board.  I appreciate all the help.  Now its back to having fun.