Steam engine reverse only

Does it cycle like it is trying to go into neutral and forward, or is it going into reverse only?

It is quiet when I hit the direction button until it goes back into reverse.

DMASSO posted:

It is quiet when I hit the direction button until it goes back into reverse.

Okay, not much of an electronics repairman but wanted to at least eliminate being locked in reverse.  Looks like a pretty large motor, would be a shame to see it die.  Worst case scenario you could always reverse the motor leads so at least it should run in forward.  

Anyway, this is the point when I sit quietly by and let the folks who actually know how to fix electronics give real advice - Good luck.

Thanks.  That may be a good idea.

Might have to replace that rather expensive Kline board, $99 with a cheaper Lionel 103 board, $20.

Check the motor (only) with DC power- does it go in forward, reverse?  If so, the problem is the reverse unit.  Does this engine have sounds?  If not replace with a Dallee #400 reverse unit.  Also - oil both shaft bearings on the motor and grease the helical gear.

bruce

I'd do the simple thing first and look for a direction lock out toggle switch...

Thank you everyone. I will check it out.

Given the motor may have been locked up the likely failure is a pair of the power devices being either triacs or transistors. The second less likely failure is the DIP chip which is probably some sort of flip flop. You should be able to read the numbers on the power devices. If so google those numbers to find out what they are. If transistors they can be checked with an ohmmeter. Triacs can be checked but its a bit more involved.

Pete