GE 4/4 III - strange sound problem

[OBBherr]

I have an LGB Ge 4/4 III #652. The factory fit decoder was replaced professionally by Massoth XLS. It was running fine earlier today, then suddenly developed a loud repetitive clicking. It's continous when on the track and continues even when the Massoth sound is switched off. Loco runs fine otherwise, with the proper sounds responmding to the Navigator which is running from a 1210Z. Other Massoth sound equipped locos run fine.

I have searched the forums without success for any mention of a similar problem. Does anybody have any ideas as to what the cause might be?

 

[PhilP]

Is this continuous when placed on the track, or only when running?

Do you have powered pantographs? - Are either(?) clipped down.

Do the pantographs respond as they should?

PhilP

 

[OBBherr]

Continuous as soon as placed on track. Pantographs are unpowered and clipped down.

 

[PhilP]

It sounds like it might be a power-buffer, or some-such power problem?

I wonder how the decoder is secured in the loco? - Thinking if it has come loose, and a partial short, perhaps?

PhilP

 

[OBBherr]

I’m non too handy with delicate electronics. Will consult regular repairer/dealer.

 

[Greg Elmassian]

Are you sure the sound is from the speaker?

 

[OBBherr]

Can't be sure be it sounds like it. Loud and continuous - doesn't sound mechanical.

 

[Wilco]

Hi Adrian,

The LGB 26420 RhB Ge 4/4 III 652 originally has a LGB Onboard decoder and motor powered pantographs concreted to a separate pcb.
As I understand, the loco was retrofitted with a Massoth XLS decoder, without connecting the motor powered pantographs.

You will have to check if the pantographs are really out of service.
It could be that either one is rolling over the internal rack and pinion bar.

there is only one way to find out.
Open up the loco.
Locate and mark and disconnect the pantograph cables from the pcb.
If the rattling stops, you have found the cause.

Otherwise the decoder needs a repair.
Or some cables or connectors are loose.

The sounds doesn't sound familiar to me for a Massoth XLS.

 

[OBBherr]

Thanks for that suggestion. Sounds very plausible. Will investigate when I have plucked up the courage to open up the loco.

 

[PhilP]

I assume you have tried unclipping the pantographs?

PhilP

 

[OBBherr]

Never thought of that. D’oh……

 

[OBBherr]

Back on track now, running fine, no clicking. Didn’t do anything other than give it a good long rest. Problem occurred on one of the recent hot days, so maybe something expanded internally? Total mystery.

 

[idlemarvel]

Nothing to do with post #10 then?

 

[OBBherr]

No. That’s why I ran it today, to try it with the pantos unclipped. But no problem straight out of the box