Train won’t run around its track? The first challenge is to find what is wrong. If the problem only started after you made recent changes to the track or trains, start there first. If you have no idea where to begin, the six steps below will walk you through the most typical problem areas.
Some problems are easy to solve. If you have a broken locomotive or power supply, or if your model trains are no longer made, you may want to find a professional to make the repairs. For many current sets, it is cheaper to replace than repair.
Step Two
Check All Electrical Connections. - Start with the connection between the wires and the track, then the connections between the wires and the power supply. Make sure nothing is loose and the wires don’t touch. Make sure the wires are connected to the terminals for the track and not accessories. Inspect the wires themselves to make sure they are not frayed or split. Check the plug in the wall too. Is the outlet turned on?
Step Three
Clean Track and Wheels. - If you’re setting up for the first time, you can probably skip this step entirely. Dirty track and wheels usually result in rough stop-and-go running, not a complete loss in power. If you’ve had the trains put away for a long time, especially in a damp environment, you could have corrosion or dirt build-up heavy enough to prevent operation all together. If you do notice heavy dirt or corrosion, it can usually be removed with some special abrasive cleaning blocks and liquid cleaners available at hobby stores. A strong eraser and rubbing alcohol will also work. Do not use steel wool. The steel shavings can be drawn into your engine's motor.
Step Four
Check the Power Supply. - We want to make sure that the power supply is working. The surest way is to use an Ammeter to read the electric current. If you don’t have an Ammeter, a simple test tool can be made with a low voltage light bulb and two short pieces of wire. If you don’t detect any current at the supply outputs, disconnect the wires to the track and test again. If you get a light, then you probably have a short in the track or wires. If not, then the problem may be a faulty power supply. Contact the manufacturer or a local hobby shop for a qualified service or replacement.
Step Five
Check the Locomotive. - If everything checked out at the power supply, retrace the wires to the track again and test here. The Ammeter will work, or if you have a second locomotive or even a lighted passenger car or caboose, try putting it on the track. If you are getting good results with this test, the problem is probably in the locomotive itself. If you are just starting out, your best option is to return the locomotive or find a local service location. If you don't get a good light or a second locomotive won't work, then the problem is probably in the track or the wires.
Step Six
Check the Track and Wires. - If you have detected a short circuit in the track, check your wires again. A short circuit can occur any time one rail or wire touches the opposite rail or wire. If you have more than one set of power leads, make sure they aren't crossed. It is a good idea to color code your wires. If you are using 2-rail track, make sure you haven't created a short in a reversing loop or wye. Switches and crossings can also cause a short if the opposite rails touch without an insulated break. If you've just changed or added track, start searching there. Remove the suspiscious piece and see if the short goes away. Continue disassembly until you find the problem. If you are building a large layout, it is a good idea to test as you go.