Help With Proto 2K HO Diesel

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

My first love is steam, but I’d also be the first to admit that steam models are rarely problem-free in terms of operation. So I also have a small stable of better-quality diesels (Kato, Stewart, Atlas, P2K) in order to enjoy the pleasures of consistent, totally trouble-free operation right out of the box.

Most recent diesel purchase (NIB) is a P2K BL2 (Western Maryland although the paint scheme doesn’t affect operation), the later of the two runs (upgraded mechanism, knuckle couplers installed, DCC-ready). Although it runs very smoothly and quietly, there are two points at which my ammeter and my throttle both show short circuits. Curiously, even at slow speeds the engine doesn’t actually stop, just a slight stutter - nearly unnoticeable. One of these points is in the middle of a 26" radius curve on a flat section, the other is on a straight section that is a 2% grade. BTW, my other equipment doesn’t have any trouble on these same sections.

Any suggestions?

2

Call LifeLike in Baltimore and they will probably replace it for free. They even paid the postage when I had a problem.

3

I would upgrade your wheelsets to NWSL wheels. Those sintered wheels tend to collect a lot of dirt quickly and as a result cause these kinds of problems.

4

Cacole, I’m concerned that Life-like would test it and not find a problem.

Raynbecky, I’ve often wondered what sintered wheels are? But the unit displayed this porblem on its first lap around the track. Good point, though, I’ll have to see if I can figure out which are the correct NWSL replacements.

Thank you both for your responses.

5

I have a link to them through Walthers. The NWSL website is pretty useless.

http://www.walthers.com/exec/search?category=&scale=&manu=&item=371414&keywords=&instock=Q&split=30&Submit=Search