I have two specific engines that don't like to run. I have a postwar alco that sparks and shorts as it goes down the track. The other engine is my Williams by Bachmann 4-6-0. I have other diesels and steamers from all eras that don't have a problem. Really only these two. I have extensively cleaned the wheels on the alco with no benefit. What is happening?
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My O-27line Plymouth switcher doesn't want to run either. About 75% of my engines run just fine. Why is this happening?
Tom M posted:I have two specific engines that don't like to run. I have a postwar alco that sparks and shorts as it goes down the track. The other engine is my Williams by Bachmann 4-6-0. I have other diesels and steamers from all eras that don't have a problem. Really only these two. I have extensively cleaned the wheels on the alco with no benefit. What is happening?
is it the pickup rollers sparking?
when it shorts does it trip the circuit breaker?
Knowing what specifically we are working with would be a help. Pictures are great, especially of the underside.
The K-Line Plymouth switcher is very susceptible to problems on dirty track, but my Williams by Bachmann 4-6-0 is one of my best-running O-27 locomotives.
You mentioned that you cleaned the wheels, but electrical pickup is from the center rail. Have you cleaned the pickup rollers? I assume you have cleaned the track.
You're not cleaning the track or wheels with steel wool are you?
I clean my track with 99% isopropyl alcohol and a magic eraser. I found a loose wire in the alco and now she's running like a champ. The Plymouth switcher has jerky operation and seems like it gets poor contact even after a thorough cleaning.
My WBB 4-6-0 is having some serious problems. It won't move or make sound. The lights come on and the smoke unit comes on. I have tried all manner of combinations with the switches on the bottom with no resolution. Before it stopped completely it was stopping and starting at random parts of my track. Not sure what is going on here but I'm going to crack it open tonight and take a look.