Shay model 82494

[Train Grampa]

Just purchased 55 ton 3 truck Shay and followed all lubrication instructions. Locomotive and all running gear works freely except the middle truck wheels do not turn. Gears are meshing and drive shaft spins freely, Rear truck works properly..any help would be much appreciated..Thanks.

[Loco Bill Canelos]

Hi TG,

You did not say whether the shay was new or used, and if you tested it before buying.  If you bought it new from an authorized dealer you could return it to Bachmann for warranty repair at no cost.  If you got it on ebay or train show used then that is another story.

There are many possibilities, but try this first.  Apply power to the middle truck only, using jumper wires, if everything is dead then I would check to make sure the wheels are clean and the contacts and wires from the wheels up to the plate on the center pin of the truck are making good contact.  If when doing this the truck does not run , but the others do, then the problem is with the motor leads from the loco electronic board to the motor or with the springs in the contacts on the truck in the non running truck.  There are several tests but try these first and see if we can narrow it down.

Loco Bill

[Train Grampa]

Loco is brand new and should have been factory tested prior to customer purchase. Tony (authorized Bachmann Retailer), owner of Ultimate Trains, Nanton, Alberta, Canada, who sold me this product now has it back in his shop, and will correct this problem.  Many thanks for your info and advice.  Will advise.

[Loco Bill Canelos]

TG,

You are welcome!  Glad your shop owner is taking good care of you!!

Bill