HO locomotive problems

[Anonymous]

I have a HO lifelike GP-38 Hi nose locomotive. When I run it on my layout there are certain spots along the track were it will just stop. I have cleaned the track but it doessn't seem to help much. I use track power. If anyone has any suggestsons for what could do to make it run smooth I would appreciate it.
Thanks
Brian

[Anonymous]

Is it the track or locomotive?

You have to make a comparison & run another loco if you have one.

Could be weak rail connectors & you are losing current.
Perhaps dirty loco wheels.

There's a wheel cleaning process.
http://ttx-dcc.com/technews/clean_machine.htm

[Anonymous]

Your note that it stops at certain spots along the track suggest to me that you are having track power problems. If you have a volt-ohm meter you can isolate it to the specific track section and then take appropriate steps to repair the problem. I don't know what stage your layout is at, but if it has been setup for sometime, you may have crude growing at the rail joiners. You will either have to reinstall the railjoiners for a fresh connection, solder a jumper from track section to track section or solder the rail joiners to the rails.

Ken, D&J Railroad, Stafford, VA

[Anonymous]

There is power still going to the track put the loco just sits there. If you have anymore suggestions don't hesitate.
thanks
Brian

[Anonymous]

These "certain spots" where the locomotive just stops -- are they on a straight section, curved section or just maybe at a switch or crossng?

[Martin4]

Hi Brian

A few years ago I had a similar problem with a Proto 2000 BL2; after cleaning the track I discovered that one of the wires between the wheel wipers and the motor had a bad contact and was moving slightly with the rotation of the truck. Check it out.

Martin
Québec City

[Anonymous]

It varies from spot to spot.