e-unit buzz solution.

[andregg1]

Hi to all
I am an operator of lionel postwar, and some e-unit are realy noisy, but tonight I found a solution (no for collectors) the noise start in the drum insted selenoid core like I think. So the solution was cut one of holder drum pins (DRUM SHAFT) make a hole for a 4-40 screw and insert a nylon spacer between the wall and drum, tight the screw till eliminate the axis free play.
result is great I can increase the voltage till 16 volt and the e-unit stay quiet.
My gp-7 is quieeeet!!!!!
To be sure, tomorrow I want to try another one, and I will take pictures.
I know about electric solution, but I'm a mechanic guy.
thank.
Andre.

[brianel027]

My solution is even easier I guess, so long as you use off-board sound. I run my layout on DC current. My older Lionel locos with the solenoid reverse units are quiet as all the others.

The improvement in speed control and noise level is very much improved with DC current on the modern can motored locos, though I do pull the circuit boards out of some of them... just depends on a case-by-case situation how the loco runs.

I like DC current and won't go back. It's simple, cost effective and gives me an imitation of speed control without the extra cost or headaches.

[ben10ben]

Here's one even simpler: Go to the back of the e-unit and bend the pawl out just a little bit from the drum. I know it sounds strange, but it works and is effective.

[jwse30]

Ben,

Thank you for that little tidbit of info there. Yesterday I bought a 624 C&O switcher that had a noisy e unit. I just went downstairs, bent the pawl a bit like you said, and it's nearly silent now.

Thanks again,

J White