I was given a train set and transformer (MTH Z-4000) as a gift and have some recent problems (I only take it out at Christmastime). My trains won’t run properly forward, but seem to work fine going backwards. Apart from just running the engine in reverse all the time, what can I do? Has anyone had this problem? It is more than just one engine so I think it is the transformer. Thanks for your time. RB |
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Hi. If the train runs at all, we know that power and the motor are not in question. What are left, as far as I can tell, would be a possible gear binding in the one direction (it’s a stretch, I know), or the power reversing mechanism/circuit in your transformer is defective.
If he only runs the loco in forward, would that wear out the brushes to the point that they do not perform as well anymore in that direction?
thanks!
The Z controllers from MTH are designed for 3 rail O operation and should not be used with HO or N. That being said, make sure you have the RED lead to the middle rail and the BLACK lead to the outside rail. If this is correct, then you need to start trouble shooting your locos.
David B
MTH is mostly O Gauge. A “Transformer” is an AC device, not DC.
LIONEL (ac) reversed their 3 track trains with a stepping relay. Foward - Off - Reverse.
TWO rail HO reverses with DC polarity change. I doubt anyone here knows WHAT your MTH did. It would depend on how old it was. AC or DC.?
BEST to contact MTH with your model number. MTH = Mikes Train House. They may have an ad in Model Railroader Magazine.
clean your track, and wheels. Rarely running it means gears may be OK. Brushes a good guess.
If its running 3 rail likely your running AC, and if your train runs fine backwards, not the transformer. However the engine motor might still be on DC with onboard diodes or rectifiers. Older Lionel with the relays technically reversed the current leads to the brushes to change direction, the idea is the same on DC hitting the switch on the powerpak to change direction, except here its on the engine, kinda like a pre DCC thingy. If its an anoboard relay, maybe contacts are bad, need cleaning too. Sitting around for almost a year oxide will like to build up.
If its a solidstate reverser, there wont be any moving parts, but would mean some failing things like diodes or associated parts. You might not have the skilz to repair this so maybe a check to the hobbyshop if they do repairs would be the thing to do.