Type R Transformer issue

[Husker Pete]

I have a Lionel 390E locomotive and cars that I have powered with the Type R 110 watt transformer for years. For some reason it suddenly has lost power and become sluggish. Any thoughts on the cause?

[Firelock76]

Are the cars passenger cars, and do they light up properly?  If so, you're getting voltage to the track.

If you've got regular freight cars you may have to meter the track to see if you're getting enough voltage, or meter the transformer posts.

If there's plenty of juice the locomotive may need a good cleaning and lube job.

[Penny Trains]

Check the roller pick-ups on the locomotive.  If they're too hot to touch then they're making bad contact.  Could be as simple as dirty rollers or a disconnected wire in the loco.

Others will have to chime in about transformer repairs.

Becky

[Husker Pete]

I have just freight cars and the engine went around fine the first few laps, then it began it's slow down. I'll try the cleaning and see what happens.

 

Thanks!

[Husker Pete]

Thanks Becky, as I replied to the previous post, it went around fine the first few laps, then it began its sluggish slow down. It may be in need of a good cleaning as you suggest.

 

Thanks,

 

Pete

[cwburfle]

The problem could also be that the motor is due for service.  Things like cleaning the commutator, replacing or cleaning the brushes, brush holders. Picking out lint, etc. And lubrication.

 

[Husker Pete]

I have had the motor completely cleaned, have cleaned the track and checked the connections but still no power. I have to assume the transformer died?

Any suggestions for a replacement?