Next Tunnel Motor Down So IMRC replaced my dead tunnel motor. I got a brand new one today.... After about 20-30 minutes... Died, This time the lights are on but won't move at all. Any ideas? Thanks, Loco1999
You're getting a lot of experience with those units! Maybe you could publish a technical manual! Just kidding!
Open pole. That is what happened to mine. I had to send it back. I have five others that are running fine.
For those who recall my info on them: I had a few minor problems with one of mine, after I took it apart. They need to be put back together as loose as possible, or something isn't going to work right! I turn the frame screws and STOP as soon as I feel resistance. Anything tighter, I have slight problems. Otherwise, they are some good running locomotives.
Yep... Thanks for some input, It's still a little off. I'll mess with it more over the weekend. Loco1999
Keith: I agree on that, especially on the first run. My DRGW and the Espee kodachrome seem to run just fine. I had problems with my first run SD40T-2s and Marty McGuirk sent me this letter: quote: I'd suggest two possibilities. One is the shell is actually interfering with the drive -- make sure the shell is seated as far forward on the mech as possible. It should slide easily if it's not. If the shell isn't seated properly on the chassis the little protrusions on the chassis that hold the shell in place can actually bow the shell outward slightly, causing a slight bind on the front truck. Another possibility is the mech is too tight. We checked all of these, and have found a few where the front chassis screw was too tightened too much by the factory and that causes a bind in the mechanism which leads to excess noise. Try loosening the screw a half turn or so and try the mechanism again. If you're not happy with it, and can't fix it, please let us know (www.intermountain@intermountain-railway.com) and our customer service folks will be happy to replace the mechanism for you. unquote. I repeat that this was relative to the first run only. My open pole issue was also concerned with this run; that engine is being replaced.
Flash, et al: Any word from IM on the replacement Cotton Belt tunnels? I sent mine back to IM earlier this month for replacement. I've emailed IM customer support and will share any news here. Thanks, Tim
Tim: No word from IM to me. I presume that, since the SSW has been re-issued, the replacements should be soon. Also, Colonel said that he was having some trouble with his DRGW and sudden starts. Jason W., Colonel, and I will be at the SYD N scale club this Sunday trying to figure that out. I am bringing my DRGW there to see if it has a similar reaction. Colonel usually uses his home layout; we are going to test using the club throttles. Info on that from one of us after the weekend. I will also report ASAP on the replacement TMs. Maybe before IM leaves for Chantilly?
I talked to IM last week about my SP Roman unit. They said they were getting ready to ship the replacements "next (i.e.,this) week" Watching the mailbox...
Well, Sometimes when I stop it, its done. I need to push down on the shell and then push the shell backwards then it goes. Can I fix this? ( when stops, headlights work) Don't really want to send it in again. Thanks, Loco1999
Try this: Remove the shell and apply a small piece of electrical tape around the rear of the mech. This will 1. keep the shell towards the rear like a spacer and 2. make the fit a little tighter so you shouldn't have to push down on it. Good luck.
Tried it, no luck. So the lights work but the motor doesn't turn. Anyone got an idea? Thanks, Loco1999
If it is an open pole, you should be able to run the engine by helping the armature begin to turn. Once it starts to spin, it should continue to turn. As I understand it, it is very difficult to fix as you have to solder on the armature. Maybe some one more knowledgable can explain this. I returned mine to IM. Since this is the second time for you to return the engine, I think IM may be a little accomodating. But, I also expect that nothing is going to happen until after Chantilly. I still haven't received my (for an "open pole") replacement TM from IM replacing one I returned to them a couple of months ago. I think others have received their replacement engine, though, San Antonio is sort of out of the way.
