Need help with Atlas Item #6844-1 Dash 8 Locomotive

When I have a problem engine, I first check for any shorts with a meter. Then if good, I'll test the motor with a battery to see if it runs. I usually disconnect everything else to narrow down any problems. Like a smoke unit short or lighting short that may take out the board. I test those also. I put it on a test track with a smaller in-line fuse attached from the transformer. So If it draws to much, the fuse will blow first.

After it runs I start attaching things in sequence and re-checking for any issues. After awhile, you start having a feeling of where to look for issues by what it's doing.

After that, try attaching wires directly to the engine. Maybe the rollers just need to be lubed?

Does your power supply show amps drawn? (too many?) Does the loco stall on curves? etc.

http://www.atlaso.com/odash840b1.htm

Some of these early Dash 8's had TAS,  (Train America Studios), Saw Gen II drive boards that were a problem.  Atlas is very good at repair.   Call Atlas and ask for Bill Serratelli 908-687-9590

Engineer Joe

The loco does stall on curves and not drawing high amps

Mike CT

I will keep Atlas in mind if I can't figure it out

I'd check the wiring for a loose connection at the trucks or a wire that has rubbed on the frame and is bare.

Thanks I'll check for a loose or bare wire when I get home tonight 

Eventually Atlas, and most manufacturers, went to double rollers on both pick-ups, similar to the pick-ups on the SW-9 models, pictured.  Clean and oil.  I had one unit, that after oiling, showed a fair amount rust/dirt from the pin, holding the roller(s).   I clean the rollers with a scotch-brite pad.  You can also get a fair amount of crude/build-up on the flanged wheels, which can also be a problem, electrically.