I have a Railking diesel equipped with PS 3 that has gone from being a strong, steady, reliable puller to running poorly. Most noticeable problem is that is "surges" rather than running steady and the SMPH seems to be off a little on the slow side when compared to other equivalent locos.
Is there some common gremlin/cause for this or is it a symptom of electronics about to die?
Thanks
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Ralph, I'm sure some of the more knowledgeable members will chime in to offer up ideas/advice on what to look for, but my very first thought is a binding traction tire.
I realize that is very basic stuff, but I had it happen to me! Have you checked the tires to see if any have come loose or broken...possibly getting caught up/binding in the truck side frames?
I have a 30-1585 railking circus train 4-6-0 that surges slightly up till about 8 smph, so you are not alone.
Clean the outside wheels to ensure they are making good ground contact with outer rail. Check center rail pickups for wear and sometimes internal corrosion. (Have you lubricated them)? Basically do a good general maintenance and cleaning, tighten roller screw, lubricate. See if this improves operation. If not replace pickup rollers.
Lose of continuity or tenuous continuity with AC Power can cause these types of issues. The processor thinks it has 18VAC to work with, and all of a sudden for a short duration Voltage drops to 12VAC because of poor power continuity and the engine will slow than surge as power fluctuates. Track cleanliness matters too. G
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
