Greetings all...
I just unboxed a Spectrum GP30 (split frame, dual fly wheel, directional lighting) and I was surprised to hear what sounds like gear noise! I was anticipating (and hoping) the unit would glide quietly over the rails. This unit sounds like a locomotive from a generation ago or more, when diesel models used to "grind" around layouts. The locomotive has excellent detailing... I just wish it ran as good as it looks!
Has anyone else had the same or similar experience with a Spectrum GP30?
Thanks much!
I didn't have a spectrum but I had two Bachmann Plus GP 30's that made noise. I never found the source.
12/28/17 I was wrong. I did have Spectrum. I hope grease helps. I tried grease, replaced drive linkage, nothing helped. Finally sold them. These had very nice detailed shells.
https://www.modeltrainstuff.com/Labelle-106-1-2-fl-oz-Plastic-Compatible-Grease-PT-p/lab-106.htm
Thanks much for sharing! It would be wonderful if greasing the gears would eliminate the noise!
Try it. It rendered 3 very noisy engines virtually silent.
Greetings all -
I am truly impressed and grateful with everyone's input!
I used Labelle 106 on the wheel gears and the worm gear with no appreciable reduction in the noise. I have tried to listen and identify if the noise is coming from the motor, flywheel, worm gear assembly or from the gears inside the trucks. I see the split frame is pretty tight around the motor, so I would think any play in the drive assembly is coming from the flywheels on back to the worm gear. Nothing looks abnormal, but... this little unit sounds like a locomotive from 40 years ago going around the track!
Thanks again for the wonderful input... I appreciate your time!