New member here...trying to revive my childhood 1971 vintage Lionel 6-1184 Allegheny Steam which has been in box for about 45 years :-). Transformer shows approx. 8-10VAC across lockon terminals as I adjust the throttle with no track attached. However, when I hook up any single track section to the lockon, the transformer starts making clicking noises (presumably resetting?) and I don't measure any voltage from middle rail to either of the other rails. After reading many posts about shorts, I tried several different tracks and they all seem to do the same thing but I can't find any sign of shorts on the tracks. I measure an open circuit from middle rail to either outer rail. With the lockon attached, the outer rails are shorted as I would expect based on looking at the lockon which seems to connect these rails but middle-to-outer is open circuit.
Any ideas what could be happening or what to try next?
Thank you very much!
Sam
It's a very long shot but try not using the lock-on. It might be your problem, try hooking wires right to the track.
Also what transformer are you using, it might help to know that also. I have a feeling you're using the 2 piece transformer set, And I never liked them as I had a couple basically do what you're saying. the problem may be the transformer you have, it might be bad.
Also check to be sure that all your center rails are insulated from the ties. The card/fiber insulators may have worn.
And aboard!
Becky
Same me, different spelling!
Rob
Especially this.
Thanks for all the ideas! I removed the lockon, wired the track directly from the 4150 Transformer, and the 8142 Allegheny Steam 4-4-2 came back to life for the first time in almost 50 years!
Next I rewired the lockon and it works! Finally, moving on to the Sound of Steam Tender (B&O, 8050-T?), after reading some helpful notes here, I added a piece of cardboard and electrical tape under the circuit board to prevent shorting due to deteriorated foam insulation. Hooked it up and all seems to be working!
Final question for now: I'm seeing many different opinions on how to clean and lubricate train and tracks. I know I can buy a cleaning kit, but am trying to do a basic maintenance with things I might have around. Any simple household solutions that work for removing light rust and dirt on the tracks and for lubricating the cars?
Thanks again for helping me bring my set back to life!
For light dust and dirt on the tracks use a Scotch-Brite pad, it works very well.
For lubrication good ol' "3 in1" oil is fine if you have any around. Motor oil works well too but applying it might be a problem if you don't have a precise way of doing it. "Break-Free" or "Tri-Flow" synthetic oil is good too.
samster711... am trying to do a basic maintenance with things I might have around. Any simple household solutions that work for removing light rust and dirt on the tracks and for lubricating the cars?
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