While running a Lifelike 2-8-8-2, I heard a click or a snap kinda noise and now the engine doesn’t move. It has a decoder and speaker installed so when I advance the throttle, it makes more chugging sounds and the engine vibrates like the motor is turning, but the wheels aren’t moving. Sooooooo, I guess something in the drive is broken. First thing - any hints/tips/precautions about how to get to the motor and drive train and then how to reassemble it all? Second - is this a common problem? Third - how hard is it to get replacement parts? Any help would be appreciated, jcopilot
It is a very high likelihood that the main gear on the driveshaft is broken (split is what it usually does), or one of the others is. It is also possible that a driveshaft is merely slipping and vibrating, but I wouldn’t bet on it. In any event, someone here will have that model and know how to lift the boiler if that is the way to determine the problem. It could just as well be accessible from the bottom by inverting the engine and removing the bottom cover. Unfortunately, it means also removing the drivers. Of course, compounding this potential mess is the fact that you have two engines, and both may have to be inspected.
A look at the exploded diagramme may help you a lot. Or, a call to Walthers and plead for a tech to spend five minutes on the phone with you. They may even offer to replace/repair it and save you the hassle. Worth a phone call.
-Crandell
Anyone have this problem before?
I have had no problem with my life like but did have a Bachmann with a loose drive shaft connector and a Bli with a loose flywheel. Both were easy fix with a dab of superglue after removing the boiler. I would start with removing the boiler first to see what is going on. I would not mess with drivers or rods yet.
Bob
Send an e-mail to Walthers Customer Service people. They should replace it or repair it at no charge. Don’t attempt to open it up or you might invalidate your warranty. A loco that costs as much as these do should have no problems.
Excellent advice, if you know what your doing and your luck enough to fix the problem correctly your fine if not you have a very expensive pile of junk. Walthers C/S is pretty darned good group I have had nothing ut good experiences with them.
If you are mechanically inclined, look at the exploded parts diagram. If I recall, the LL 2-8-8-2 comes apart by removing the steam dome (it pops straight up) and there is a screw underneath that lets the boiler top come off just above the walk ways.
At that point you should be able to tell if the motor is turning etc…
However, if you are sending it back for a warranty repair, I would not do this. No point breaking something that is not a free fix.
I bought mine back in the old days when they came without DCC, so I had them apart several years ago. I also replaced a headlight in one once (not really fun). I need to get sound equipped decoders for them now so they will complement with my A’s and Y6’s.
Good luck!