I recently got a Bachmann spectrum (blue box) shay with dcc. it seems to be perfect except for a conduction problem. I cleaned the wheels and the track with no improved result this has got me thinking its an electrical problem with the engine. it wont run on dc even though it has a dc/dcc decoder. I have read online about a wire that if loose could cause the problem but I wanted more information before I disassemble the engine. I don’t have a manual for this locomotive but I do know it is different from the black box shay. is there a manual for this locomotive?
There are no manuals with Bachmann trains. I have bought some.
Go to the link below. You can search the HO forum for shay for possible answers.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php?PHPSESSID=1k2rncj6pkjf50eqtc9qlk5ul5&
You can find the DCC info about the onboard non sound decoder in the Parts page. EZ Command decoder.
If you bought from previous owner, some disable the DC function. No idea if this decoder has the possibility. I removed all mine for a better decoder.
Look in the Parts, Service and Information section for the diagram that usually comes with new locos. There is a 70 ton and 80 ton.
There is also a HO forum with company reps and some who use that loco.
Sure you do not have a cracked gear? Shay and Climax owners have had that issue.
Another electrical spot that could be an issue is where the trucks swivel. I had a link abut that but it is gone.
Good luck.
Rich
Just in case. I did find this link. This guy is good with the geared locos. Look over his site. You can see the contact points from the trucks to frame.
Save the links.
http://gearedsteam.blogspot.com/2012/06/bachmann-spectrum-shay-disassembly.html
You will note that Bachmann does not use NMRA DCC wire colors.
Rich