I have 4 MRC 260's and run DC. I just installed MT couplers on 6 LL FA and FB units. I coupled them. I ran them pulling 15 cars. When I touched the power pack, it was pretty warm. Is this indicative of a problem with the pack? Did I try to run too many powered units on one pack? Another reason?
My first guess would be some sort of electrical reisistance in the circuit and not the power pack. Small electrical feeder wires, poor solder joints and running characteristics of the locos can all play a part in this forcing the power pack to work harder. If the drive system is stiff or of poor quality in the loco, it will take more electricity to get it to move. The motor itself may require more juice just to get it turning. The gearing in the towers may have a ratio of such that it takes more electricity to get the loco moving. If the feeder wires are very small, the power pack has to push harder to get the electricity through the wires. Length of the feeders also has a role in resistance. The longer the wires, the more resistance. It could also be the power pack itself. Running different combinations of locos and cars should yeild some results. You could also leave the power pack turned on with the power turned up with no trains running. If it still gets hot in a short period of time, it could be something defective in the power pack. [ February 23, 2005, 11:09 AM: Message edited by: doofus ]
I switched the train to another block and used another power pack. Same results. I had the original on full voltage without traffic, of course, and no heat.
Flash- No solution- I will have to assume it is normal since it does not occur with an AB and gets only slightly warm with ABBA
I appears you have solved your situation!!!! I have never really been impressed by MRC power packs. All the packs I have seen in operation get warm when trying to run 4 locos or more. But then I run quite a few locos at one time anyhow. I suppose if you only run one, two, or three, it wouldn't really matter. That's just my opinion.
I will take pancake batter with me down to the basement and pour it onto the MRC 260. I will then not have to go upstairs for breakfast.
I think that it is just normal that the power pack get a bit warm. I have an older Tech II (the 230V european version they once did), and if I run a multiple consist it gets warm in one spot. I assume this is the place where the power transistor is located which is dissipating some energy. To use it for cooking would be really a good example of energy conservation, but is the dirt worth this?? Christoph
"To use it for cooking would be really a good example of energy conservation, but is the dirt worth this?? " Lord, no. I have no intention of opening up a power pack to remove cooking waste. All- Please pardon the frivolous nature of the posts. It is Friday afternoon, I am at work, I do not want to do any more work this week (my brain is worn out) and my secretary will not release me from the office.
TGIF Here in Germany the weekend is some hours earlier, but it also ends earlier.... Christoph (@home, but real tired)
How about whipping up some beans with them pancakes.....that should give you plenty of gas service Russ
