Old Spectrum 2-8-0 runs poorly, need help.

[Tim]

Thommo

It appears to not be inserted all the way, as I can see the end of the plug.
It also seems to be slightly crooked.

They fit very tight but  you should be able to insert it further.

Make sure that the plug is oriented correctly, there is a small ridge
on each side of the plug. The ridge is not centered and will only go
in one way.  There is a corresponding slot in the sides of the socket.

Tim Anders
Souderton, PA

[Woody Elmore]

Have you tried turning the engine over and running it off the track with test leads?

[Thommo]

Thommo

It appears to not be inserted all the way, as I can see the end of the plug.
It also seems to be slightly crooked.

They fit very tight but  you should be able to insert it further.

Make sure that the plug is oriented correctly, there is a small ridge
on each side of the plug. The ridge is not centered and will only go
in one way.  There is a corresponding slot in the sides of the socket.

Tim Anders
Souderton, PA

When I come home I'll try to insert it further. Thanks!

[r.cprmier]

One thing I noticed absent from this thread, and that is the use of an ammeter (or amprobe with a "current multiplier") in the process of checking out the draw V. rated ampacity.  This is important, as an undetected overcurrent condition can wipe out a motor in short order; all too possible in this situation.

I will also heartily endorse the use of Tomar@ pickups.  Just look into them, and then give it some thought.   I would rather rely upon a wiper(s) tied to those black and red conductors than any wheel/brush contact.  Remember, the more you put between the line and load, the more that can fail.

Rich

[Thommo]

Thommo, thank you for your kind words!!

Usually the plugs are quite difficult to get out of their sockets.  This makes me wonder if yours are pushed in all the way.  When fully engaged, the tiny ridge at the rear of the plug is touching or almost touching the shell of the socket.  If you need a photo, let me know.

Hi Jim & Tim, all is OK! The plug was really not pushed all the way, I was little to carefull after seeing all that fragile details on the loco!

Thanks on your help, my B&O Consolidation now doesn't blink and drives very well.

[Tim]

Thommo

Glad we were able to help.

Have a great day.

Tim Anders
Souderton, PA