N&W J Class Proto 1 Won't Go In Reverse

Backup light does not come on until motor movement.  Does it play chuff sounds in reverse with no movement?  Or just sit in neutral?

You can check the solder joints of the motor wires on the engine side plug, but if it consistently runs in fwd, just not reverse you either have a sticking relay on the PS-1 bottom board, or the transistor control of the relay is bad.  They are fixable and or board can be replaced.  I have parts and do this work if you need help.  Email in profile.  G

It is a dead transistor, Q3, on the power board.  Q3 is located behind the capacitor C12 which is just beyond the forward and reverse relays.  I have replaced several of them.  If you are not able to replace it yourself, there are numerous of us techs on the forum that can.

Bruce

Thanks gentlemen!

Sounds like it's not that big a deal- glad to hear. Any idea what would make the transistor fail? Or where to find a part # for a replacement?

Much appreciated!

Steve B

those engines are quite old nothing last forever, a transistor can go bad at any time with any device. there 1990 or older depending what rev the boards are !