Lionel Empire State Express tmcc coupler issue

You should replace the coupler.  They are only $10.00 retail.  If you do not want to do that, follow both wires to the coupler and about an inch from the coupler put a 1.0uF 50V non polarized electrolytic capacitor soldered across  the wires.

Marty Fitzhenry posted:

You

It just says you

I can not type faster than you can read.

Sid's Trains posted:

I have a Lionel 6-38000 Century Club ll EMP Hudson and lately when it's running the elctrocoupler will just open without me pushing the button on the remote. What is happening and what can I do?

You have to determine whether the coupler is opening mechanically because it is weak, or whether is is being spuriously commanded to open electrically.

The standard way to do that is to unplug the electrical connector to the coupler and run the train. If it still opens up spuriously, the problem is mechanical inside the coupler. You can either replace the coupler, or take it apart and stiffen the spring.

If it does not open up with the wires disconnected, then it is mechanically OK and is being spuriously commanded to open. If that happens, then a 1uf non-polarized capacitor across the wire leads should solve the problem.

The engine has a few years on it.  I would just go for a new coupler.     RoyBoy outlined the steps correctly to follow.

Thanks guys