Robert, I find any noise - if present - usually quiets down after a break-in period. But there have been one or two that took longer. I always disassemble for putting on the details anyway, and that's a good time to do a close inspection and maybe a touch of lube. And it seems like the more you run them the quieter - and smoother - they get. A lot of the stiffness I see in a new loco can be directly attributed to the trucks. I've had some very free rolling, and others that could use a toothpaste polish. I've not tried that as yet but it is an option.
Jim, I'm not really worried about the basic noise, but about the one that goes along with the irregular speed of the engine. That sound may well mean the motor axle grinding itself free from the cog wheel at its ends. But I'll keep my eyes and ears open for possible improvements, just in case my worries should be unfounded.
Irregular speed would bother me. I had one doing that - was caused by the power pickup spring - the long brass dealie - being not straight and parallel due to my ham handedness in reassembly. It was making irregular contact with the metal nub on top of the truck. A quick grab with the tweezers and all was well again. But that was easy to spot, it happened mainly on curves. Or, on the GP60s it could be a loose light board. They are much looser than FVM's other locos, and that could cause the problem...
Jim, thanks for this . I'll check, but the co-occurring grumbling noise makes it unlikely that these are just contact problems in the electrical pickup system.
Okay so I saw a video for Top Hobby Trains and the FVM GP60M had sound and working ditch lights, independent number boards and rear lights, Any Ideas on what Decoder(s) they used http://youtu.be/zvk6mIoOD_E I have my BNSF Swosh set and would love to be able to do that...
I actually did find more information on it elsewhere on their page.... Here is what we do: Dissemble loco modify stock circuit board Mill frame to accept LokSound Micro decoder Mill shell interior Mill Frame to accept 2 LokSound .5" Speakers Hard wire LokSound Micro decoder to modified stock light board Install LokSound speakers in fuel tank Replace headlight and rear light with SM LEDS (DCC controlled) Custom wire in 2 SM LEDs for the flashing ditch lights (DCC controlled) (Cab Unit) Wire LED for number boards (Cab Unit) Load custom programming and sound project to decoder Each loco is tested for all functions and operation running for ward and back over turnout and hills LokSound 4.0
It kinda sounds to me that once all of that is done the locomotives weight would be about 1 ounce. I think I will run mine, not listen to them. IMHO Mike
The for engines, two A and two B units also arrived to me. To handle the very small Parts was a real challenge to me! I lost one of the windshield wipers The Models are well done and run very well!
