The arm is sticking in the down position. Have not been able to debug from above so I guess I am going to have to lift it off the layout. Anyone have a suggestion for what to look for?
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If if moves, lubricate, done that to both of my PW, bought from
Trainz, way before they moved, over, and havent had 1st moment of
problem since.
It would seem that the armature/plunger within the solenoid is not able to freely slide if it remains in the 'down' (pipe/chain end) position. It's the weight of this armature/plunger that should cause the arm to return to it's 'up' position.
I would strongly advise NOT applying any wet lubrication to this armature/plunger. First, I would try extracting it and cleaning it to a bright, shiney, smooth, dry condition. Clean out the solenoid sleeve with a cotton swab...dry or with a bit of alcohol...until there's no evidence of dirt/gunk.
On mechanisms like this, I'd stay away from wet lubes...they'll lose their lubricity once they dry out and/or accumulate airborne or wear debris. If you must, try a dry lubricant such as Teflon powder, dry graphite.
These mechanisms are so simple, the 'bearings' so basic and loose, with gravity often the only necessary returning 'force'. Clean, smooth, gunk-free surfaces should get you back in operation, methinks.
FWIW,
KD
it was the reverse plunger (i don't know how better to describe it) on the underside that was binding. lubed and working now.
thanks.
