Lionel CTC uncouple unload control track

[Stevereeno]

Had a a question about repairing a Lionel CTC O guage uncouple unload control track.

The uncoupler button works so the magnetic section is operating but the unloader section does not work.

I do know that the push button controller works as i have test with another CTC track with a milk car. I have inserted a picture of the control track below.

 

Thanks for anyone's ideas?

 

Steve

 

[ADCX Rob]

Assuming you are talking about a UCS track section and not a CTC Lockon, check the track & controller for accurate wiring & continuity following this diagram:

[Stevereeno]

Sorry

I meant UCSYes I have that diagram and everything looks correct.

The controller works fine.

Is there something shorting out in that the uncoupler works fine but the unloader does not work.

The small wire connections from the coil look and feel ok

Can it be taken apart or just throw it away.

Thanks for your help

 

Steve

[ADCX Rob]

If the coil is working fine, then the problem is mechanical(broken wire, cold solder, dirty track). There is no reason to throw it out.

Clean the rails, all 7, and check for continuity between the leaves of the controller and each rail as called for by the action(unload/uncouple) chosen.

[Stevereeno]

thanks

how can you check for broken wire unless you take apart. The wires are soldered below the coil.

Thanks

 

Steve

[lionelsoni]

Ohmmeter?

[ADCX Rob]

Stevereeno

how can you check for broken wire unless you take apart. The wires are soldered below the coil.

As you've stated the uncoupling coil is working OK, these are the only wires on a UCS. The rest of the connections are steel conducting strips.

If you are going to do any troubleshooting or repair on Lionel trains, you will need access to an ohmeter / VOM as a basic start-up tool.

They start at about $5 for a starter VOM at Harbor Freight. While these have limitations, it's better than nothing if you can't use/construct a basic battery/bulb circuit for continuity testing.

[Stevereeno]

Thanks Rob