Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
Problems Lionel Fast Track on Christmas Layout
Wes sent in this question for readers:
“I’m having an issue with my Christmas lay out. My O gauge Lionel fast tack loses power in one spot. I did a voltage drop test but there is conductance. I have 2 power wires hooked to a MTH Z1000. It will only run at half throttle or higher. But if you have fast track you know how loud that can be. I think I may add 7 more power wires to help with this. I tried the bending the prongs and that did nothing. It’s only 7×7 layout. Besides the additional power wires and maybe taking the track off and insulting the track. Any other ideas?”
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
I have a 4×8 Lionel using the fast track also.. I use #14. Wire from the transformer to the BUS wire which is the same gauge from the transformer. I used #18 wire from the bus to the track, keep that short as possible. Divide the layout in 4 parts. Put two wires each part. Make sure all connections are tight including the track and no corrosion any where. I really hope this works for you. Have a merry Christmas!
Did you try powering up the track with no trains on and measure the ac voltage around the loop
I know you would like like this but i am a tubular track guy the new stuff give a lot of problems
you might consider switching to mansards tubluar track the price is cheap and you will not have the problems you are experiencing
I have the same noise problem with my Christmas tree train, gave up,in the fast track and now use my older Lionel tube track. It really reduced the noise. My train runs on the carpet under our family room tree. Some minor power loss which I corrected with a n additional lock on.