Athearn F-7 H.O. shorting out

[bruce22]

have had this loco for years. Great performer. Now running in DCC mode. Recently it began to short out. Periodically. After stripping it down and replacing the decoder, to no avail, I realized that the split axles had narrowed in gauge and were contacting in the plastic gear sleeve. After rectifying this problem, this unit is now running again like a charm. F.Y.I.

[Mark R.]

Obviously requires no reply ! 

Congrats on solving what can at times be a real noodle scratcher !!!    FWIW - It's a good idea to put a heavy dab of paint on the axle ends while they're apart to help insulate them should they shift again.

Mark.