Lionel Trains - Lionel Train Forum - Model Train Forum
Bonus Forums => Info & Forum Support => Topic started by: hederj on February 25, 2020, 06:01:04 pm
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Hello,
Re: 18 V DC Transformer covering 30-40 feet of track
As I take meter readings I see various readings and the power and the switch lights go up and down sporadically.
Anybody out there that can help me or refer me to someone who can?
Jim
hederj
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First check to see you have good, solid connections to your transformer and track, and you are using a good, heavy gauge wire.
Next, check to see all the pins in the ends of the tracks are clean and rust-free, and are tight fitting in the ends of the tracks. Squeeze the track slightly if necessary to get a tight fit.
Lastly, make sure your track is clean and free of rust and dirt, including the ends where the pins push in. Use a ScotchBrite pad to clean them up, followed by a wipe down with a rag dipped in Naphtha.
After all this is done, you should get consistent voltage readings all around the layout. A lighted car rolled around the track will also confirm consistent voltage.
Larry
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Thank you Larry. Would poor connections account for the on and off phenomena? With everything connected and the powerpack showing 18 V DC at the plug, Power comes to the track as noted by the headlamp on the engine lasting approximately 2 to 3 seconds and then goes off for a second comes back on again for 2 to 3 seconds and continues to do that as long as it's left on.
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It sounds like you may have a short circuit somewhere.
What transformer are you using, and what kind of track?
Finding the problem is a process of elimination.
Disconnect the transformer from the track and check the voltage at the plug. If it cycles on and off, the transformer is your problem. If power only cycles with the transformer connected to the track, there is a short in the track somewhere. To locate it, disconnect one track at a time and power up the layout. Keep on disconnecting one track at a time until the short disappears. The last track you disconnected will be the bad one.
If the transformer and track check good, the problem is your locomotive. It may have bad wiring or a bad 'E' unit.
Larry
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It was a short circuit problem. I found the defective track, replaced it and all is back to normal. Thank you. I didn't think a short circuit would cause the power to come and go like that.