Hi! I am new to this but here is my question: when I turn on the train set and lift up the transformer handle to start the trains, you can tell that power is going to the track and the trains will start to go and then stop. I have also tried pushing them to give it a boost while I lift up the handle and the same thing happens. The set is only one year old and we have it set up in an eight shape going up and down a little. Can anyone tell what the trouble might be and how to repair it or what I might need to repair it? Thank you so much, Liz1954
Welcome!
We need more information:
What scale?
What manufacturer and model of engine?
What power distribution system, including the "transformer", are we discussing? How many feeder wires to the track, and how long its the total trackage in feet?
Are you using metal joiners? Are any of them soldered to the rails?
Where is the layout stored, and under what conditions? Does it get moved a lot? Is it in a location where changes in temps and humidity might eventually cause changes to the structure supporting the tracks?
Sorry to be a pain, but we'll get a lot further and much more quickly if we know some of the answers.
-Crandell
TA has it right. Clean the track and engine first!
After that, if the loco keeps dieing in the same spot, then you obviously have a bad connection there on the track. Check the track for oxidation (hazing of track/rust/turning brown (brass)), and rub it down again. Also check the joiners between the track. These allow electricity to travel from one track segment to the next. So they have to be clean and secure.
-D
Don - Specializing in layout DC->DCC conversions
Modeling C&O transition era and steel industries There's Nothing Like Big Steam!