I have a lionel 736 engine that goes into neutral everytime it crosses over a switch track or remote track section. None of my other engines do this. Does anyone know why?
I believe the contacts are closer together. When the contacts loose connection, they are doing so at the same time, so its like hitting the direction button. The ones with contact rollers further apart always have one in contact with the track, alieviating this problem. I had the same problem with the HO locos until I started buying the more expesive ones that pick up current through both the front AND rear wheels.
I am pretty sure this is your case. Not too much you can do about it.
Good luck.
This should not be happening on a Lionel #736. One of your roller pick-ups is no longer working. Using a pair of alligator clips, lock the red onto first on roller and then the other while touching the black to a wheel or the frame. If you get power to the engine through one roller but not the other, then you’ve found your problem.
Jon [8D]
I have a 736, but mine is okay. I had this problem with a 726RR which is similar to the 736. To solve my problem, all I did was put a little bit of oil on the roller contacts, the rollers that touch the middle rail. A little dab of oil on each side of the roller, so they spin faster and get for connectivity with the middle rail. I also had this problem with a 2321 FM with rollers far apart from each other, Same solution worked for me, a little bit of oil on the rollers. They run like new for me at least. Just try it, would not hurt to put a little bit of oil on the roller so they spin like new. thanks.