Problems With Marx Locomotive Switching from Forward to Reverse

[EddieZ]

Hello,

 

I have a Marx 1666 locomotive.  When I first start to run it, I can reverse it and forward it with no problems.  After running for about 10 minutes, if I am running forward, I can't reverse.  If I happen to be running in reverse, and I can't forward it. 

I have tested with another transformer, and the problem still exists.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Ed

 

[dsmith]

Ed, I have had the same problem occasionally with my Marx engine and have solved it by cleaning the reversing unit by spraying with electrical contact cleaner.  The mechanical parts of the reversing unit can hang up and cleaning the moving parts does help them move more reliably and it also helps clean the electrical contacts.   Radio Shack should have the cleaner and it comes with a skinny spray tube so you can direct the liquid where you want.  If you unscrew the motor from the engine shell, you should see the reversing unit sitting at the top front area of the motor frame.  The electrical windings of the reversing unit are covered with a tan colored tape.  Direct the spray into the openings that are just below the electrical winding.  I hope this helps.

[wallyworld]

One suggestion is an invaluable book "Marx Trains Repair Manual" by Julio Castillo which covers accessories as well as locos. The Robert Grossman Company has them at a reasonable cost. I have dealt with him numerous times with various orders for parts and his service is terrific.I used the same technique with the Radio Shack spray and it worked to clean the contact fingers. I also disassemble the entire loco and particularly give the armature etc a good cleaning when I have it apart.

[dsmith]

Ed, here is what the Marx reversing unit looks like.  The upper tan part is the electrical windings for the solenoid coil.  The lower part is the mechanical linkage that might benefit from cleaning.

[LL675]

nothing to add but welcome to the site!

[David Barker]

Marx trains may be toys, but they are fun and I collect 'em!  Then I run 'em and enjoy them

[EddieZ]

Hi David,

Thanks for reply.  I have never taken a motor out of a Marx locomotive.  I looked beneath the locomotive to see how the motor was connected to the shell.  There appear to be two chrome colored screws on each side of the engine.  Do I just remove these two, or is there more involved..

 

Thanks for your help.

Ed

 

[baberuth73]

Thanks for posting that photo- it helps me, too!