Cleaned track and then no power?

[jmad]

Hi everyone– I was happy to find this site.
Today I pulled out my US 1 for the first time in decades, for my 8yo son. After assembly, the trucks were running, but not great in certain areas or they would stop. I disassembled the track and sanded the grime off the rails using a 220 sponge block. Then wiped them down with a clean rag and rubbing alcohol. The rails went from grimy to shiny. I also removed the strips from beneath the trucks and soaked them in white vinegar while I sanded for a couple hours.

I reassembled the track, reattached the strips, now the trucks aren’t responding. I assume they’re getting power as they were working earlier. I’m using the original transformer. I opened up the individual controllers–nothing appears to be detached or frayed.

They worked prior to cleaning the rails, now nothing. I’m stumped. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[biddle]

You need to isolate and troubleshoot starting with the power track. A multimeter can be used to check power coming out of the power pack.

 

[biddle]

I’ll give it shot… thank you!

Coincidentally, my controller fried this week! Couldn't get it working again, popped the back off the terminal and found a melted wire. Now using a backup controller I bought a year ago. Much easier to operate with the toggle switched for forward/reverse! Wish I switched sooner, latest video I shot looks much better because the speed is the same.

Thread 'Unboxing New Speed Controllers- had a variation inside!'

Jan 30, 2025

Back in the 1980s, they relied on fax machines and phone calls for production and proofs. The process was much slower! As a result, many TYCO slot car products would have variations of products inside the package! This is a good example, and it worked out great for me because my track does not have lines. My original controllers finally crapped out beyond repair, and I had accidentally purchased these with the lines on them and opened them out of desperation. LOL. I'm Glad I kept them and did not sell them!

• biddle
• Replies: 0
• Forum: Show & Tell

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[biddle]

Just shot my first reel video with the new controller! Much easier to operate with the toggle switch! Highly recommend!

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TYCO US-1 Electric Trucking- 3445 Exxon Gas Station Switch Track. #slotcar #slotcars #truckdriver #exxon#exxonmobil #slotcarsforever #slotcartrack #Hoscale #peterbilt #peterbilttrucks.

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