many years ago I did a repair article on the talking station I believe it was in the late 80 in the S gaugian some one may have a copy of it.
if I remember correctly the white wire to the track provides low voltage to the track to keep the E unit from cycling that is not your issue.
you need to make sure you have contact on the rotating drum, once the cycle begins it will complete the cycle and shut off, until you press the button again. it appears that by keep the button depressed you are keep voltage on the unit. I will try to find the date and issue on the station.
