Lionel Subway R16 - 6-31797 - Distorted and Crackle sounds - Resolved

I was able to complete another reset on the unit and that seemed to resolve the issue. Thank goodness it was an easy fix.

-Matt

what did you reset?

The crackling sound is a classic issue of oxidation on the pins of the chips in the PLCC sockets on the audio board.  Unless you're seated them, I predict it'll be back.  If you end up doing that, get a PLCC chip puller, do NOT pry on the chips with a screwdriver or the like!

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

The crackling sound is a classic issue of oxidation on the pins of the chips in the PLCC sockets on the audio board.  Unless you're seated them, I predict it'll be back.  If you end up doing that, get a PLCC chip puller, do NOT pry on the chips with a screwdriver or the like!

John, to be clear you take the chip out using a puller. Then reseat it back in. Anything to clean up the sockets that could be done?

I’m curious because I have a couple proto 1 engines that suddenly started making screeching like noises upon startup. It goes away after a couple minutes but it can’t be good.

I was talking to someone else who is having the exact same symptoms. So it’s not layout related. Wondering if this chip issue could be the cause.

Yep, usually that's all I do, pull the chip out, then press it back in.  Check the socket to make sure there are no cracks along the sides, that's another reason you have connection issues.