So I finally unpacked my P2K FA1/B units and put them on the track. I picked them up on clearance and they seem to be the model that doesn’t come with DCC (although I think you can wire it in). In any case, the B unit runs fine, but the A seems to take more power and is pretty jerky running on the test track. I am rather new to this, so is there some place I should look on this thing to see if its loosing contact, or something. Any other suggestions?
thanks
AMSR
What is an F1?
David
P2K makes the ALCO-GE FA-1/FB-1. I believe that is what the question is directed to.
The famous cracked axle gear. Replacemenst are free from walthers.com
Yes. It certainly may be the cracked gear. As I have found out that many of the older P2K locomotives have poorly made gears. But in case it isn’t, I would look at some of the contacts as you have mentioned yourself and possibly see if any of the wires inside the unit are not making true contact with the motor. Then you want to check to see if anything is dirty. Sometimes it might be the wheels that need a cleaning or some of the contacts or even your track.
So check these place sand come back with any results, OK.[tup][;)]
happy railroading[(-D]
James
Yep I meant ALCO-GE FA-1/FB-1, sorry posted too fast! 
Just FYI…F1 would refer to an EMD locomotive. Its a common mistake, but there were some ‘toy’ train mfgs that actually produced an ‘F1’…a model that never exsisted.
David