Apparently the problem was that the Genesis does not play well with the CW-80 transformer. I picked up a Z-1000 and now it runs smoothly.

I have to add a caveat: I have a brand-new Amtrak Genesis by Williams that throws out tons of sparks and does not run properly under a CW-80, but I switched to an MTH Z-1000 and it runs perfectly now, so it is fickle with some Williams engines.

I have performed proper cleaning, lubrication, etc. on both the engine and the track, using a rag with 91% iso alcohol for cleaning and MTH oil/grease for lube. The rollers are staying on the center rail and rolling smoothly, and I cannot find any issue. However, I am going to try picking up a Z1000 transformer and see if that solves my issue, in case it really is the CW-80 model giving me troubles. I have two of them, both newer make after Lionel fixed the issues with the original run (their production dates are in 2011), and the engine behaves identically under both (I even swapped out the terminal section and wires to be safe). If that does not work, the dealer has agreed to swap out for a new engine at the next train show.

Hello all,
I just recently purchased my very first Williams engine set, the Amtrak Phase V Genesis A-A pair. I have heard many great things said about Williams diesels, so I finally took the plunge and decided to see for myself. However, from the moment I placed my powered engine on the rails, it has had some pretty severe issues, and I was hoping someone could help me out with a simple fix so that I don't have to contact service with my very first one.

When the engine runs, it flies, but a fierce amount of sparks fly from both center rail pickups, so much that I can smell the burning and the sparks cover across the entire track. If I reduce power on my transformer to zero and switch into neutral or reverse, all power will cut to the engine, though occasionally I will see the cab light flicker dimly. After this happens, if I bump the engine with my finger it will suddenly catch power and start going again, but with the sparks still flying out from under both of the third rail pickups.

I am running on O48 Lionel FasTrack with an 80-watt transformer. I tried thoroughly cleaning the track (all my other engines work perfectly with no sparks) and the rollers, and I oiled and greased all the recommended points on the engine, but this did not solve the issue. Any help from you fine folks would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!