@raising4daughters posted:Challenged was first two tries with old reliable PW locomotives, and I don't think either was due to the DCS/TMCC. FA-2 AA diesels ran around the track great, no issue with the directional button on the DCS remote, but as soon as a connected the 3 passenger cars that came with the set, the FA-2s barely budged. Because everything else ran fine, I don't ascribe it to dirty track, weak voltage, or bad connections. I watched this engine pull 4 passenger cars with ease 50 years ago at my grandfather's. Just had the pick-up rollers replaced last week, and this was the first run. Could that be the issue?
I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss voltage. Measure the actual track voltage when you're running. Also, if the engine has been stashed away for 50 years, a general maintenance is called for. Check the brushes, clean the commutator, and lub everything.
@raising4daughters posted:My 2056 4-6-4 couldn't get out of neutral. Since the DCS got the FA-2s to change direction, I'm thinking this is a sticky E-unit and some WD-40 would help.
Do NOT spray WD-40 on your E-Unit, that will only create more problems! A totally dry lubricant is OK, but typically they don't need any lube. Anything like WD-40 will cause the plunger to start sticking. The E-Unit depends on gravity, and just the weight of the plunger is what makes things go.
