I have a Rivarossi AHM 2-8-2 HO scale that is sparking on the left side drivers. Of course when it does this it stops or hesitates. I’m not sure how to start solveing this problem. Anyone have some hints or ideas for me. I have alot of diesels but this is my only steam engine.
Thanks
AHM is now IHC, so their repair departrment might be able to help you. Give them a phone call.
If this is the insuated driver side check that a side rod is not contacting the tire. The side rod will be “hot” if the driver center is metal. Also the tire could be contacting the frame or other engine parts. The tire is insulated from the center by a thin strip of insulating material.
Is the frame made up of two steel plates riveted to a central plastic frame? If so, make sure the left side wheels aren’t contacting it at any time, so it will only get power from the right wheels.
The AHM/Rivarossi steam engines are built differently from metal steam engines from manufacturers like Mantua or Bowser. They all have plastic wheels and cylinders, so the siderods never have any current going through them.