My Lionel MPC 8142 4-4-2 steam engine (from 1971) with a two-position electromechanical E-unit, smoke, and the Mighty Sound of Steam is sluggish in the forward direction, regardless of voltage input, for the first couple of minutes, after which it runs normally.
There is no issue in reverse; it runs normally in reverse from the first time power is applied.
The engine is lubricated and the wheels and drive gear move easily. I cleaned the E-unit with CRC contact cleaner, but there was no change. Also, locking the E-unit in the forward direction does not make any difference.
I'm mystified. Any ideas?
