Thanks Elliott. It's good to know what the problem was and that the guys on this forum nailed it pretty quickly.
Joe
The sensor needed to be soldered back in place.
Elliott
So what was the problem? Did they tell you?
Called BLI Tech Support on Monday - they knew what the problem was and the fix. Since I live about 10 miles from their facility they told me to bring it in and they will fix it. Took it in on Wednesday and in ten minutes the repair was completed. I AM EXTREMELY SATISFIED WITH BLI's CUSTOMER SERVICE.
I have seven BLI engines and this was my first problem - I intend to continue purchasing from BLI.
Elliot.
The chuff sensor is nothing but a reed switch that picks up a signal from a tiny magnet or magnets that is glued to the flywheel next to the motor. On my M1 the sensor is above the flywheel. On my J1 the sensor is below the flywheel.
Pete
I pray every day I break even, Cause I can really use the money!
I started with nothing and still have most of it left!
Appreciate the response. Since I have not taken these units apart for maintenance al question arises:
1. where is the 'chuff sensor' located and how is it replaced into its mounting bracket?
Thanks again for your help.
EG.
Definitely the chuff sensor. My Blueline M1a was the first one of my BLI locos to have the chuff sensor mess up. It was nothing but putting it back in its mounting bracket. None of my 7 chuff sensors have failed completely but they do pick up dust that can confuse the readings and ability to sense the magnet. During my maintenance I will bow out as much dust from under the boiler as possible and make sure the speakers in the tender are clear of metal objects picked up off the layouts. It never ceases to amaze me on how many track nails and rail spikes they accumulate.
Thanks! Tried reseating the plug but no luck. If nothing else I will call BLI on Monday for their advice.
Thanks again.
My 2012 BLI light Mikado version chuffing became inconsistent after several months, with other sounds still working. Mine is a Paragon2 and has a chuff sensor. I tried resetting, cleaning track and wheels...no help. Also, check your loco-tender plug is well seated. Eventually I sent mine in...they could not duplicate the problem but changed the chuff sensor for good measure. It has since (several months) worked consistently, so it was either the sensor acting up (not uncommon) or I was not getting the plug well seated.
Paul
Modeling HO with a transition era UP bent
Have a 4 year old Blueline Light Mikado - ran perfectly on DCC until yesterday when it lost the synchronized CHUFF (all other sounds are working, ie.,air pump, water fill, etc.) Tried resetting CV's to factory settings but that didn't work. Checked several CV's that control CHUFF volume, etc. and all registered as set ok.
Any ideas?
Thanks,
EG