Thomas the Tank Engine Directional Switch Electrical Question

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I have an O Scale Thomas the Tank Engine 6-31956 set which Thomas engine does not change from forward to neutral to reverse when the power is interrupted.

The switch to change directions is ON.

I discovered if I add a lighted caboose car then the directional switch does work when I turned power off with the red transformer speed control arm.

When I take off lighted caboose it does not work anymore.

Anyone know what is going on and how to correct.

Had similar but disimilar issue with a railsounds locomotive that would put out erratic sound if the light bulb was burned out.

Confused

Cheers

Steve

2

This is a transformer problem, unbelievably.

The new CW type transformers(PowerMax 30/40, & CW 80 watts) don’t really go to zero volts at no load, so there needs to be a load, like a bulb, for the reverse to cycle properly.

Lionel provided a special power track section with a light bulb pilot light embedded in the FasTrack roadbed for these Thomas style train outfits.

Bottom line? This is “normal” operation.