Odd Issue with CAB2 Controller

Gandalf97 posted:

I am experiencing a very odd issue with my CAB2.  After being stored on a shelf for a couple of years, I took it out again to so I could run a couple of trains and found a gummy sticky residue just along the outside edges of the unit.  It was stored in the cradle yet there was no residue on the cradle.  The residue was too even to be a spill and there was none at all on the base.  I tried various things to clean it off including Goo Gone but it resisted my best efforts.  I don't remember exactly what was there before but I think there was some material to make it easier to grip.  My best guess is that this material reacted with something or simply degraded over time.  This set was purchased in 2011 so it is WAY out of warranty.

Has anyone experienced or even heard of anything like this?  If you did, what did you do?  It really is too sticky to use without cleaning.

I have also had a problem with the remote not charging which I hear was common in the early sets.  I have considered sending it to Lionel to repair this issue and "oh by the way" this has a sticky residue...      Is this something that is worth trying to get fixed out of warranty or should I try to find a way to clean it up and live with it?

Suggestions?

Yes this is normal, well sort of.  I believe most folks use denatured alcohol to remove the coating.  The coating they used seems to get gummy.  I have one and thats what I did.

The charging circuit can be repaired by Lionel under warranty.  The warranty on these, unless the unit was abused, is still on going. You will pay shipping to them only.  Get an RA from CS.

Marty,

Thanks!  I'll try the denatured alcohol.  Great news about the charging circuit too.

Eric

I used Isopropyl Alcohol.  Works the same, but if you read the MSDS, it's a bit more people friendly.

Thanks John. Missed it by that much. 

91% isopropyl alcohol took the residue right off.

Neal Jeter

Check that...   I'll go with the isopropyl.  Thanks, guys!