Let me start by stating that I have an 8x20 O Gauge Layout powered by a post war ZW Transformer with a TMCC power base and two Legacy Powermasters. I have 2 interconnecting loops each powered by a separate powermaster. From 1995 until 2013 I used two TMCC powermasters but then switched to the Legacy powermasters in 2013. My layout has been in the same configuration since 1995 and has operated flawlessly. However, over the last month I have been experiencing an apparent loss of signal on an intermittent basis on my outer loop only. Often times the trains will run on this loop for 1/2 hour without a problem but on other occasions right from the start I will lose power intermittently. The inner loop runs fine with no problems whatsoever. To begin with I have thoroughly researched the forum's archives and implemented every suggestion I was able to find.
I have checked the following things in an effort to track down the problem without success:
1. Power output from the transformer for the outer loop is right on the money.
2. Thinking that perhaps the PM-1 Power Adapter cable had gone bad I replaced it with a new one. Power loss continued.
3. Replaced the TMCC power base with a spare I had. Power loss continued.
4. Checked all hard wire connections from the transformer to the track, to the power base and to the powermasters and all are tight and secure and the powermasters and the power base are wired correctly.
5. Checked the track for any tell tale voltage drops and there aren't any. I cleaned an already clean track and the pick up rollers on a couple of my engines and still have intermittent power losses on the outer loop only. Gave the track a railzip treatment in case continuity was a problem but it had no effect.
6. Power losses occur in both command control and conventional operations and occur at numerous locations on the layout. No one or two locations are prevalent for these power losses.
7. My power base has been plugged into the same outlet for 25 years and no problems. Nevertheless, I checked the outlet for power and there are no problems there. In any event, I plugged the power base into a different outlet and the power loss continued.
8. Changed the batteries in my cab1 remote-power loss continued.
9. My cab 1 remote is responsive to all commands so I don't think the problem resides there.
The only thing I have not done is to replace the Legacy Powermaster for that problematic outer loop. The Legacy Powermasters I installed in late 2013 are only six years old. Is it possible this one went bad? Anyone have any experience with a malfunctioning Legacy Powermaster?
At this point I don't know what else to do so if anyone has any suggestions on what else I should check or do I would certainly appreciate it. This is driving me nuts because I never know when this is going to happen. Thanks in advance for any assistance which can be provided.
