Possible Thomas and Friends transformer problem

[CrazyThomasFan]

Hello all.  I plan on contacting Bachmann support about this problem but I thought someone may have experienced this already.

When I plug in the transformer into the outlet and measure the AC and DC voltages and current, it seems to fluctuate wildly.  When I plug into the track, the trains do not move either.

Once I wiggle and giggle the transformer I can get the 16VDC output and the trains move for maybe one second and then the voltage drops.

Sounds like I need a new transformer but maybe a schematic of the transformer with some voltage measurements might be useful too so I could go to Radio Shack and repair the discrete components myself.

Any suggestions would be great!

CrazyThomasFan

[Diesel #261]

My idea would be if you live close to Dubois go up to the hobby center up there.  They are having a sale and most of their transformers are only $20.00 to $30.00 each.

[ThomasFan247]

Hello all.  I plan on contacting Bachmann support about this problem but I thought someone may have experienced this already.

When I plug in the transformer into the outlet and measure the AC and DC voltages and current, it seems to fluctuate wildly.  When I plug into the track, the trains do not move either.

Once I wiggle and giggle the transformer I can get the 16VDC output and the trains move for maybe one second and then the voltage drops.

Sounds like I need a new transformer but maybe a schematic of the transformer with some voltage measurements might be useful too so I could go to Radio Shack and repair the discrete components myself.

Any suggestions would be great!

CrazyThomasFan

my problem is almost the same as yours. i have a controller from the gordon set that has the accessorie hook up. when i use it runs fine but sometimes it jerks my engines. itll be goin 100 then it jerks faster 4 about 2 seconds. awhile ago tyour exact thing happenned 2 me. my mom bought me a track eraser that wurks, but sometimes i mask my track with duck tape and let it sit 4 about a 1/2 hour. mab more.then i remove it.it usually wurks. your track mite just b durty.

[Guilford Guy]

my problem is almost the same as yours. i have a controller from the gordon set that has the accessorie hook up. when i use it runs fine but sometimes it jerks my engines. itll be goin 100 then it jerks faster 4 about 2 seconds. awhile ago tyour exact thing happenned 2 me. my mom bought me a track eraser that wurks, but sometimes i mask my track with duck tape and let it sit 4 about a 1/2 hour. mab more.then i remove it.it usually wurks. your track mite just b durty.

*cough* don't listen to what he says *cough*

When measuring the voltage it does not matter what state the track is in. You may want to buy an MRC Tech 4 Powerpack.
http://www.modelrec.com/search/product-view.asp?ID=1298

BTW, duck tape will leave the sticky residue on the rails. Just put alcohol on a rag, or paper towel, and rub it along the rails to remove and junk.

[ThomasFan247]

my problem is almost the same as yours. i have a controller from the gordon set that has the accessorie hook up. when i use it runs fine but sometimes it jerks my engines. itll be goin 100 then it jerks faster 4 about 2 seconds. awhile ago tyour exact thing happenned 2 me. my mom bought me a track eraser that wurks, but sometimes i mask my track with duck tape and let it sit 4 about a 1/2 hour. mab more.then i remove it.it usually wurks. your track mite just b durty.

*cough* don't listen to what he says *cough*

When measuring the voltage it does not matter what state the track is in. You may want to buy an MRC Tech 4 Powerpack.
http://www.modelrec.com/search/product-view.asp?ID=1298

BTW, duck tape will leave the sticky residue on the rails. Just put alcohol on a rag, or paper towel, and rub it along the rails to remove and junk.

the tape doesnt leev a residoo bhind. ive ben doin it awhile and my tracks wurk much better.

[Guilford Guy]

Do you know what adhesives they have on Duck Tape to make it hold so well? Imagine putting those directly onto your rails. If you still can't visualize this, imagine putting a light layer of white glue on your rails, and run your trains around to spread it around your rails and wheels. Just use alcohol, its far better.

[Diesel #261]

If you still can't visualize this, imagine putting a light layer of white glue on your rails, and run your trains around to spread it around your rails and wheels.

I thinks that is what he is trying to do.  Have fun gluing them tommy trains to the tracks Thomas.

[PRRThomas11]

Simple, just mail the transformer back to Bachmann and they will send you a brand new one. The adress is in the service/parts thing at the top of this page.