Christmas train Noisy power functions?

Pebbles

Ok I admit this is the first time i've used power functions. I've finally managed to find the time to motorise my winter train, however it's rather noisy. It sounds like it's grinding on the track and seems to struggle with corners.

I'm not sure if the wheels are getting stuck or if its something else, but any advice would be appreciated.

milamber

Pebbles said:

Ok I admit this is the first time i've used power functions. I've finally managed to find the time to motorise my winter train, however it's rather noisy. It sounds like it's grinding on the track and seems to struggle with corners.

I'm not sure if the wheels are getting stuck or if its something else, but any advice would be appreciated.

Firstly I'd check that all the wheels are rotating smoothly. It's possible to push them on a little too tightly so that they grip the track too hard. You can check those then push it around by hand to see if it moves smoothly.

It's more likely to be the following though.

There is an issue with grip if the train is motorised the way Lego tell you to.  Basically the train is too light as all the weight is in the tender so the motorised wheels aren't pressing down properly on the tracks. The rubber grips on the wheels don't connect firmly enough and the wheels slip. That's why many of us have put everything in the tender (motorised wheels included) so that it pushes the engine along.You will need to extend the tender slightly to do this, but it hugely improves the overall look of the train as all the wires are hidden. If you look on the 'Winter Village' thread you can see what both I and other have done.