A thank you & a question...

[drums1427]

I recently got my Lionel set from ebay and have questions regarding it that I posted here. I want to thank you guys for the responses and help. I have not set a train up since I was about 11 (18 yrs ago). Your help has been very helpfull in getting it running.

Now my question. My set is the Chessie Flyer 4-4-2 O27 with the 40W transformer. When I run it for about 5mins it all of a sudden stops, sits for a minute, and the starts running in reverse. After this happens, if I move the switch underneath for forward/reverse & put it in just forward it won't run. When I move the switch back to forward/reverse position the problem returns. Does anybody know what could be causing this?

[pbjwilson]

When I got my first starter set 10 years ago my engine would gradually slow down and I'd have to turn the transformer off for a while. It would run again after the transformer coooled down. I'm wondering if it's your transformer.

Those 40 watt transformers really cant run an engine very long especially if there is a lighted car running with it. I'd say find a nice used transformer of 100 watts or so and you'll probably see a big difference in performance.

[drums1427]

What would be a good 100W transformer to look at that would be compatable with this set?

[pbjwilson]

Right now I'm using a very basic 100 watt transformer made by K-line. Works fine powering a engine with Railsounds and a few passenger cars. Older Lionels like a TW or LW are nice as well. Check some internet sites or e-bay and you should be able to find something.

[ChiefEagles]

Funny, I have a postwar that did that. It actually went into a short situation. Found out that the smoke unit heated up and the wire from the top of the was getting hot and shorting out through the old insulation. Corrected it by sliding a new piece of heat shrink over the wire and it stopped it. They can be funny sometimes.

[pbjwilson]

I think the chief might have something here. I reread your question and you said your engine comes to a sudden stop. Maybe you do have a short.

[drums1427]

You may very well be right about the short, it doesn't even run now. When I plug in the power supply the green light on the transformer comes on, but when I rotate the throttle to run the train, the light goes out & the train doesn't run. The headlight doesn't even come on. I think I might have to take it to the local train shop & have it looked at.