Hi my HO Proto E7A has stopped running in DC with no defined reason - what can I do? All of my other Proto and Atlas units run no problem.
I’m no DCC expert, but it sounds like your decoder has taken a puke.
First is add some details such as.
Did you see smoke or smell something buring.
Is the light still on.
Is it a DCC engine that you are running with a DC power pack. (you can do that with no ill effect)
Was it making any kind of odd sound before it stopped running?
Was it running and just stopped, or was it the next time tried to run it, it would not go?
Have you pushed it on the rails and it started, then it stopped again?
I would love to help, but I am not Abby from NCIS. Closer to Tony. [:-^]
Cuda Ken
You say ‘running in DC’ - does this mean there’s a dual-mode DCC decoder in it? Or do you just mean you’re running a DC layout and the loco’s stopped running?
Not much in the way of detail given so I will have to guess.
If running on a DC controlled layout, take your multimeter and check for DC voltage on the track.
Use the ohm option on the meter to check for continuity between the wheels on the right side and left side.
Also, you can remove the shell and check the motor resistance at the motor leads. Those are some options I would consider.
I have done those before over the years.
Rich
Okay here we go with details
no smoke or heat
dual dc / dcc decoder
no light operation
I did try to push it and it will not go
track has voltage as other dc /dcc units are running
I was however running it with another unit when the E7 stopped.
Trust me - this is a mystery
Remove the shell and try to rotate the flywheel to make sure it is not a frozen motor/gear drive.
Find someone with a DCC controller to check the decoder out.
Really sounds like a failed decoder since it had been running and no lights either.
Try to get yourself a DCC controller. There are some good ones for home layouts under $200.00. One is under $100, kind of basic but better than running on a DC Power Pack.
Rich