I notice that my new Shay will not pull one car around my 19" radius test oval. The rear U joint keeps pulling out when trying to put it on the track. Even with all U joints connected, It will barely pull itself around. Is this normal for the Shay?[:(]
No, that’s not normal at all. I have 3 of the Bachmann Spectrum Shays and don’t have that problem with any of them. If you bought it new and not off e-Bay, contact Bachmann about sending it back for repair or replacement.
I have one of these engines on my test track at present, I am just breaking it in after giving it a light lube of the running gear. It runs perfectly after breaking it in, very slow speed but that is what the engine is known for.
I have had no problems with any of the u-joints, if you are I would suggest you immediately return it to Bachmann for replacement.
You may also want to post your problem at the Bachmann site as there are likely to be more owner/users of this engine at that site. A search of the site may also reveal the problem has been encountered by others.
Here is a link to the Bachmann site. Search the site for Spectrum Shay. There are some issues.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php
Rich