I just bought a new transformer to get my sons layout going and the train (Lionel 1602 scout) goes foward a foot or so , then goes backward a few feet then goes forward again. It continues this pattern and never makes it once around the track in 1 direction. What could be the problem?
In my past, I recall two reasons. One is making certain that track is clean, wheels and pickups clean or not badly worn. The other is a reversing unit problem. Boxcab E50
Here's more info. Initially I was running a lionel 1034 transformer but the plug broke . But while running on the 1034 it reversed fine!. I then went out and purchased a CW-40 Lionel Transformer. Thats where the reverse issue comes back. The 1034 is a 75 watt transfromer, the CW-40 is 40 watt. Why would it reverse fine under 1 transformer and not under another?
Please tell me about the condition of track, wheels, pickups. Clean? Worn? Track sections all fitting tightly together? It could be that 40 watter is simply not enough. It could be that insufficient conditions are overcome by simply having that larger transformer. The small box transformer is meant for small starter sets of a small switcher, simple figure eight, or less track. Getting any larger with a layout, and you need more wattage. Boxcab E50
Track has been cleaned; not thoroughly tight at all connections as this is old track, but what I dont get is it goes forward, no problem. I didnt know that going backward required more wattage? I'll check the contacts tonight...
Going in reverse should not require more wattage. However, I have owned many engines, Lionel O & O-27, American Flyer S, HO stuff, On30 and countless in N scale. You'd be surprised how often their speed in one direction varies from the other. (New or used.) When that happens, they can tend to draw power harder. If so, that could cause an "E" unit to be unhappy. Especially with some age on it. Boxcab E50
Well last night I fixed the plug on my 75 watt transformer and usedthat instead of my 40 watt and WALA! Train goes in reverse NO PROBLEMS! Weird, but I guess in this case this 1062 scout needed more wattage to act properly....
Cool! Now have some fun! If you can, how about a photo or two? Would be good fun for a new topic! Boxcab E50
