MTH Z4000 transformer throttle handles very stiff

hello guys and gals.............

I am surprised of no reply as surely there are others that have the same problem. I believe there was a thread about it in the past. I am looking  for someone to  tell me how to fix it so not have to ship it back for repairs.

the woman who loves the S.F.5011,623

Tiffany

They should loosen up with use.

Tiffany.

Look on the bottom of the Z4000.  There is a screw under each handle.  Loosen the screw until you get the feel of the handle that you want.  That's it.

Bob

Hello prr6200s2........

I have loosen those screws on the bottom next to the handles they are just about ready to fall out but the handles are still too stiff.   I like to use the trottle handles to control the train speed like the real train engineer does as thats part of the fun.  The Z4000 is working great so i don't know what to do next.

the woman who loves the S.F.5011,623

Tiffany

I know exactly what you mean - the screws on my Z-4000 (purchased new Feb 2013) essentially do nothing - if I tighten it all the way in, there is more grab, but nothing as far as easing the tension.   However, I did find an alternative solution, which is definitely NOT cost-effective: bought a new ZW-L and, oh my, are those handles smooth!  The Z-4000 is being relegated to accessory and switch power duty.

Tiffany, not sure how much work you want to do on your own, or how comfortable you are working on the Z4k, but in a nut shell the only way I have found to correct this problem is  to split the case apart and lube the plastic "guide plate" that is part of the handle assy. After you do that the handles will almost fall down on there own, then you can use the bottom screw to adjust the tension to your liking. This sounds easier said than done as the Z4k I don't think was ever intended to be serviced by the consumer. Your first time doing it can be a bit challenging, but it can be done.

If you need more info, e-mail me.

 Scott

Hello Tryanst 1880E......

I just sent a E-mail fews mins ago. I am willing to try to fix that.

the woman who loves the S.F.5011,623

Tiffany

People,

I would be very careful not to tighten the screw on the Z-4000 too much as you can bend the small potentiometer shaft so that the gears don't mesh. Then the handle won't adjust your voltage.

Hello guys and gals..... (Up-date)....

I fixed the stiff handles as a forum member sent me pictures of the transformer and told me how to fix it.  It took me half hour and problem is solved. 

the woman who loves the S.F.5011,623

Tiffany