I just went around the layout after staging it for tomorrows running session and counted eighteen Atlas switchers rostered waiting for work.
Over the years some made funny noises others are completely silent and a couple just stopped running the ones that stopped running I replaced with new motors (I have plenty of spares). I guess I'm no help because when we run the layout it is so busy no one has the time to worry to much about the odd noise or maybe we just ignore it and keep going, tomorrow if I remember, I will see how they are performing as far as noise goes. We have very little trouble with these engines but then we don't run them into the ground day after day week after week for long periods.
Once a week we run the layout and then it's only switching moves and short trains all day long. I cannot remember anything breaking on them in regards to the driveline and I am sure I would remember because I'm the only one who does all the repairs!
I have modified the Steel mill locos some with Flat cab roofs, new DC wiring, twin headlights at the rear, flashing lights on the roof, some of the locos have NWSL wheelsets fitted (have had a couple of gears come loose on the axles) all are fitted with Kadees. I know one loco makes an intermittent "squawking" noise now and again can't think of anything else sorry I can't help you any further. Roo.
