They really need to get their head out of the sand with this issue. Instead of banging on about how it’s such a minority and blaming customers controllers.
Just got back into model railways collecting triang And the prices of the new stuff is way out of my budget but I am shocked to to see people having to strip these very expensive loco’s, at what they cost they should be faultless .
Hello Peter. Thank you for this very clear video. I have had my 37 for several months now but as I have built my home layout in Scalefour I have only run it in on my rolling road plus one two-hour session at my local Club's operating night, say three hours in total. Last night was the second time and, guess what, it started the go-slow and lurching you and others have described. As I live in the US, return is not an option, so I will be contacting Accurascale to see if they will send me a replacement motor. But if anyone knows if a better quality motor is available, that might be a better route.
I’ve just had the same problem on my Hattons class 66,the motor looks identical to your class 37 motor.I found that both the pole magnets had become unglued from the motor body causing the magnets to hug the armature which was causing rough running and excess amp drawer.I super glued the magnets back in the correct position and found the motor to run perfectly again. Thank you for your great video.
Hi Peter, Great you solved it. I have two of Accurascale’s Class 37’s now both bought with sound. You’re scaring me. It is a long way from Colorado USA to get parts and communication is really only by email. I have my fingers crossed that yours was a rare manufacturing defect and I won’t have the same problems. By the time I get the drivers in and detail at least one end, I don’t want to lose it all. Thanks for the video, Rob
I've been highlighting exactly this on various YT channel comments for months! There is a reliability issue which starts to show up after a couple of hours or so use on all of their model range. I've had 12 so far and only 3 are still running correctly. I've sent 6 back to retailers and Accurascale so far! Houston (Accurascale) we have a problem!
Peter you are a star. How on Earth you managed to to dismantle the class 37 and make an excellent video is absolutely incredible. I have a Carl Haviland with the same problem and wish now I had never bought it in the first place. Full price eBay purchase so I am stuck with it. I almost bought another (Shap Fell) and so glad I discovered this in time. Looking at your video has put me right off DCC. I just cannot cope with all the complexities and unreliabilities. Thank you so very much for all you have done. Kind regards, Andrew (Central Scotland)
Sorry to hear that about the model Andrew. To be fair over the last five years I have enjoyed my modelling I have had issues with all manufactures. Unlike my old models where they were built to be more serviceable and spares were available. I wonder if there's a modelling club in your area you can go for help in this? All the best to you Peter
Downfall with accurascale is they get so personal about us finding issues with their models like it’s end of the world! I’ve had accurascales Richard block me because I’ve shared this video! Facebook Accurascale have blocked me because I’ve shared other issues with their windows falling out of the class 37’s …….this issue regarding the motor doing possible damage to circuit board in my eyes is probably the most serious so far!
Ohhh yeah Richard also told me Rails of Sheffield would have pre orders available on accurascale class 37 network rail a few months back….only turns out rails never had them on pre order according to Rails few week back now it’s egg on their face for misleading a customer literally was willing to shell out £169.99 on the class 37 n accurascales team are all like nooo you work for bachmann n I’m like i f…..g wish a did ha I’d have first choice on their models obviously 😂🤣🤣🤣😂🤣🤣😂😂rails of Sheffield have been a godsend though having sold me such beautiful models.
Excellent video Peter. Likewise I have the DCC Concepts Alpha meter and find it a “must have” to see what’s going on power wise. As yet, only running a test track which gives me very reliable readings on the meter. Nothing on the track, obviously no current drawn so what ever it shows with a loco on track is a perfect reading. Going on your video, it would appear you have a standing current draw of 300 milliamps with your “on track” locomotives, hence your readings of around 400 milliamps work out to only 100 milliamps to the motor on a running locomotive, way below DCC decoder ratings. There will be small variations in current as motor load increases due to friction between wheels and track when negotiating bends and point work. Interesting and a little disconcerting to hear you’ve had motor trouble with the Accurascale 37 particularly as I have one on order from the second run. Hopefully yours was a one-off and I’d like to think these motors are built to the same quality as the model they’re fitted in. That said, I’ve had two Bachmann Class 66 motors go bad on me drawing close to 1 amp and getting rather hot in the process after what might be considered low usage. Thanks for a most interesting video as I now consider myself all clued up on strip down and motor replacement for the 37, which, fingers crossed, I won’t have to do. Regards Dave B.
Hello Peter, very very interesting video watching you taking that 37 apart and your testing rig for the motor was a great idea. I hope you get it sorted see you at GETS.
Hi Peter, Spot on, I found this out and told Accurascale about it weeks ago. Out of my 6 37's, 4 have the problem. I went a bit further and stripped the motor down. The problem is with the brushes. When you look at the commutator the pads are bridged with what looks like copper. This is shorting out and causing the increased amperage. (I have photographs I can send you). On that particular motor I cleaned the grooves on the commutator out and refitted the motor with Hornby brushes. That loco has now done over 16 hours and it is silky smooth, even smoother that an Accurascale without a problem. Incidentally the problem only really starts to materialise when you have done a couple of hours running. I have a Z21 and noticed the amps jumping up straight away. There is no guarantee that your replacement motor will be a good one!
Hi Cliff, stay tuned for part two video as I have some good news, as while I am waiting for replacement motor, these idle fingers got to work on the motor and I decided to take it apart.Like you I cleaned the grooves on the commutator careful put back the end cap containing the brushes and I had a total different motor running perfectly. I am testing for now but I think its fixed :) When happy will post the video showing my results :) All the best Peter
@@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 That’s good news, but I did that and I am afraid it will be short lived. The brushes are too hard and are wearing the commutator. The brushes will wear the pads and deposit the copper particles back in the groove. The only way I have managed to cure it is to fit the brushes/end cap from a Hornby motor. That one had been running over 16 hours! The brushes in a Hornby motor don’t appear to be as hard as Accurascale. I have sent them all this info along with all the photos.
@@cliffhorner Ok Cliff that's good to know and disappointing too. I don't have any other motors I can try what you did so I might start looking around Thanks for the heads up Peter
Downfall with accurascale is they get so personal about us finding issues with their models like it’s end of the world! I’ve had accurascales Richard block me because I’ve shared this video! Accurascale have all blocked me because I’ve shared other issues with their windows falling out of the class 37’s …….this issue regarding the motor doing possible damage to circuit board in my eyes is probably the most serious so far!
Well Peter, such a shame you're having this problem, and I can understand why you don't want to send your 37 back. Your problem solving is second to none, and I think your very brave having a go at the repair. It's lucky that you're day job was as a Brain Surgeon, 😅 I'm impressed. Let's hope that Accurascale sort you a brand new motor quickly. Take care Eddy xx
Hello Peter, every Accurascale loco I've bought has done this speed variation malarky two 92s now two 37s, it always occurs after a few weeks running. You may want to have a look on a post I did on RMweb asking in title:- Accurascale class 92 and 37 slowing down then speeding up. it was amazing how many folk posted. It as always went off the subject and instead of how many folk had this problem it went more into motors. The topic is now closed? I have heard that the problem is the brushes being copper and using carbon brushes cures the problem? There is no way I can fix my locos due to eyesight and numbness in hands, so I am reliant on either refund or replacement. What you can do earns my admiration, Bill.
Hi Peter, Lets hope this motor problem is all yours (very sorry) and that it is not a sign of things to come for the rest of us but a very good video showing us the inards of the 37 lets hope the new motor is not very long in coming and I do hope that Accurascale will not charge you anything for it and the post as you are saving them a lot of work what a nice man you are. So GETS 12 days away looking forward to seeing you and all the other YT'ers at 11am on the Saturday on the gallery 1st floor. Will watch out for part 2 soon hopefully. Cheers Robert.
Hi Peter, great video as always, i have an issue with a noisy fan motor on my Hornby Platinum Juubilee HST set dummy car, i phoned the retailer i bought it from, they said i should bring it in so they can have a look, to be fair its the gearing inside the fan drive unit, i have cleaned it out and re-greased with a silicon quality lubricant, this worked with the other fan units on my 21 pin Railadventure hst set and the power car from the 21 pin Platinum Jubilee set, like you i don't want my dummy car handled and damaged as its pristine, i contacted Hornby about buying a new fan unit to which they replied i have to send it back for assessment, i am going to fit sound to the set in a few months so its not a total let down, just go to show manufacturers like Hornby who sell items that are not quite right but won't sell parts to repair them, the fans in my Bachmann class 47 are silent in operation, such a shame their units won't fit inside the Hornby hst unit, thanks for sharing this very informative video with use mate.
Good job you know what your doing peter but you shouldn't have to do that on a new £300 loco ,!!!!! Nice video that help people who got the same problem with there loco great video
Interesting to see how the class 37 comes apart. very true what you have been saying about the returns. we never seem to get a new one back. if anything goes wrong with the original purchase. thanks for sharing Pete. see you at gets....Cheer's Tony
It’s the same with Co2 air rifles , they swap them out if faulty with a replacement , companies have them made in China and have no repair facilities so each faulty one is a loss for the company , guess it’s the price of having things made in China and I guess if the model you send back is sold out a refund is the only option , shame as the accurascale 37 is a thing of beauty to look at .
Hi Peter, very interesting video you’ve got me a bit worried now seeing all those motors you have changed in those boxes had change a Bachmann 37 motor a couple of weeks ago that burnt out a chip cheers al
Good job there Peter,you make it look easy, I have never yet had to take a soldering iron to a decoder board, I'm hoping I don't have an issue with my Accurascale class 37 when I get it.
Very interesting video Pete. I have had the same problem on my class 37 locomotive number 37419. Mine is a dcc ready version and to confirm the problem ran it on two different tracks and rolling road. I have had to send mine back to Rails who confirmed the problem and it has had to go back to accurascale for motor replacement. Wish I had you skills and tools to effectively repair my locomotive.
Hi Pete What a superb video, very informative and well presented. Just for your information, there were similar problems with the Hattons 66 motors and on RMWeb, under the 66 thread, was a series of photos that showed the problem with the motor. Taking the brass end cap off and pulling motor slightly out of housing showed the brushes not quite aligned with the commutator. I did this with one of my 66 locos and after re-aligning the brushes, all worked well although was a bit of a faff! Hattons did not do spare motors!! Best regards John
Hi John, that's interesting about the 66 motor I will see if I can find it. I had the same thinking it could be the brushes and can see that on this and the Hattons motors that it was a fault with them but on the other hand the motors for the Bachmann that I tested have brushes that are removable if needed. So they line up perfectly and yet they can give the same problem. Could be they are damaging/scratching the surface of the commutator. Seems to be a lottery with these Morden motors. Cheers Peter
Watched this last night and was surprised to see you had a fault. Accurascale are good dealing with spares so should be ok. Great video, good for future reference. See you soon. Mick.
There has been some reports of what you said here in terms of running, which has been down to a faulty DCC chip as there is still a shortage and components are still not great quality... which leads to erratic running... always best to check on straight DC.... then you can clear and check the motor. However I know the motor manufacturer and with the number they produce I am not surprised there's the odd duff one around.. Hornby use the same supplier.
Hi Matt Yes to discount it being the chip. First test I did was swapped the chip into another loco and it worked perfectly and a known good chip into this loco and it ran with a fault
Had the same issue with one of mine, then got a replacement, but had a hunch that it was the motor at fault. I changed the motor in a Hattons 66 before now, and I could have sworn it's the same motors as these 37s.
Hi Peter I had the same problem with an Accurascale Class 92 the current drawn became so high it kept tripping out the power supply due to overload. I sent it back to Rails who also had the same problem and they in turn returned it to Accurascale for attention. They tested loco and could find no fault so back it came to Rails. They tested it again for 4 hours and it ran perfectly so returned it to me. I've ran the loco frequently since then and it appears okay which is rather worrying so my fingers are crossed that the problem has gone away.
It is sad to hear that one of your trains have broken down it's very interesting to see what's in those trains cos I see them on your track but I wonder how they work but when you took it apart I said wow that is complicated
Wow... that was an interesting break down (or break apart). That was quite interesting and well explained and shown. I am just sorry it seems to be an issue! Cheers!
Had the same issue with my class 92 in the end it would crawl around even at full power plus high current draw on the amp meter took nearly a month to get a replacement sent out,detail kit was already pre fitted on both ends so probably a used model but at least it works
I have replaced motors on a Bachman 419 mlv and a Heljan class 33 and sent a Dapol 73 and an Accurascale 92 back all with the same symptoms. I ran the faulty motors on a 9v battery to rule out ‘it’s your controller’ When I took the old motors I replaced apart the commutators were damaged by the brushes. I don’t know how much quality control the motors are subjected to but not much I suspect. I think they just accept a failure rate. The joys of multiple outsourcing chains.
Yes I wonder if the "carbon" of the brushes is to hard and damage/scratching as you say. Something to be said for the old motors where you could clean surfaces and replace brushes etc Can't do a thing with these things except get another
interesting to know what percentage class37 locos are returned. i assume ,with due care ,these expensive locos shoulds last a lifetime.i do have this specific loco, but have very light use. anyway brilliant feedback video, thanks
it does it when you have the motor out, not attached to anything. obviously the motor or shafts, or flywheels. not binding wheels or drive shafts. you are right, hopefully the replacement motor will be fine. you could always put a motor from another accuscale 37 in to prove all the drive chain is fine, for peace of mind that it's all ok, but the motor is definitely dodgy
I am afraid that as models become more and more detailed and complicated, quality control and maintenance become more difficult. This is true of all the manufacturers unfortunately.
It's so frustrating Peter - I've had exactly the same experience and they just repeatedly blame my PiSprog controller. I raised the issue on RMWeb and they got the posts taken down. In a more recent thread this week others have shared the issue and again after a couple of days the thread has been locked to prevent discussion with the answer being to contact them - not sure why they can't improve the quality - never had this with a Bachmann loco (or a Hornby infact!)
@@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 Hi Peter, it's not exclusively - but there does seem to be a high incidence rate. Hopefully they can sort the production issues out!
They've removed taken down my friends comments to on Facebook its a regular thing! A few of them re posted the comment again and guess what... yes comment removed again! Overall i'm getting constant messages and them complaining about faulty accurascale or broken accurascale same with bachmanns latest tooled model, motor issues running issue's... it would appear bachmann re tooled and rushed out there 37 & 47 very quickly to compete in the market with accurascale all in all i do not want to have any here from either company now to weather detail or do out on i'm sick to death of the issues now and really don't have any patience for these super detailed full of issues models.
I have watched a few model train videos and regardless of the manufacture faults are coming more common. Is China losing interest in making model trains ? One idea been put forward is there is more money to be made in high-profile tech items like ' Apple' products than model railways, another is China is struggling to clear it's backlog after the lockdowns. Who knows until things improve I will pass on new models.
Hi Chris. She had a 30 min running in time both ways at first then over the next few days maybe the total time of running that loco was maybe 3 or so hours.
@@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 That’s awful though I'm glad the problem showed itself quite quickly Does that indicate a one off faulty motor perhaps. Hope so. Does rather spoil the Accurascale experience for you. I think you acted completely correctly in taking matters into your own hands and changing the motor yourself. I'm expecting my '37 any time now so let's see if I have an issue. Cheers Chris.
Hi there, yes done that in the past and got back a loco with marked bodywork that still didn't work. Plus I love to meddle and that resulted in the model working fine now (see part two) Thanks Peter
The World is awash with reliable micromotors. Manufacturers like Faulhaber, Maxon , Canon, Portescap, Bühler, Mitsumi and Roco made inhouse in Romania. None are Chinese companies. It's a shame Accurascale and Hornby source motors from a Chinese company!
Shocker. Another Accurascale loco with a shoddy motor. Don't worry, post on the major forum or on Accurascale social media about it and comments deleted, many people telling you you're lying and threads locked. It'll come back to bite them one day
Hi Peter. Ive recently got the newest bachman 37. Frustrating.. goes mental doesn't respond to emergency stop when needed. New plux 22 chip fitted ok. Please can you share what cv's you've set your 37's at so that I can go any further with this model. Many thanks John...
Hi John, the problem is I don't have the new Bachmann 37, so my setting won't do for your model as I believe its a totally different setup to mine, so sorry I don't think I can help and to be honest from what you say about not responding It doest seem yours is OK so CVs are not the problem. Have you done a reset of the chip? It's what I would try. Hope you get it sorted Cheers Peter
Peter - thanks for the video -how long was it befroe the issue emerged - I've run mine in for an hour so far....but obviously I'm concerned with the problem you had...
Hi Chris. She had a 30 min running in time both ways at first then over the next few days maybe the total time of running that loco was maybe 3 or so hours.
Does your 37 models feel warm after running after about 30 minutes to an hour ie after running in because was wondering if that might be a sign of things to come if not it's just a motor that gets warmer with no consequences thanks again
Yes, its starts to get very warm due to the increased amps. I have had 4 out of my 6 37's develop the problem. It starts to show around 2 hours of running. I run mine in at a moderate pace, 1 hour in each direction. If you get to 3 hours your doing well!
@cliffhorner good to know but hopefully it doesn't become a problem and the motor burns out and need replacing and you just run in sections at a time allowing it to cool down before running it again
@@penjunction If its getting warm it indicates that there is already a problem. The problem I have seen on all of them so far is that the brushes are too hard. The brushes are wearing the commutator and depositing the copper in the grooves between the pads. The build up of copper then causes a short between the pads which increases the current draw, in return generating the heat.
Hi Richard, the trouble is there are plenty that have not had problems. I really think that it maybe down to a faulty batch. At this moment in time I have replaced the motors with new ones sent to me and all is well. Time will see if this has now cured the problem. Cheers Peter
They really need to get their head out of the sand with this issue. Instead of banging on about how it’s such a minority and blaming customers controllers.
Just got back into model railways collecting triang And the prices of the new stuff is way out of my budget but I am shocked to to see people having to strip these very expensive loco’s, at what they cost they should be faultless .
Hello Peter. Thank you for this very clear video. I have had my 37 for several months now but as I have built my home layout in Scalefour I have only run it in on my rolling road plus one two-hour session at my local Club's operating night, say three hours in total. Last night was the second time and, guess what, it started the go-slow and lurching you and others have described. As I live in the US, return is not an option, so I will be contacting Accurascale to see if they will send me a replacement motor. But if anyone knows if a better quality motor is available, that might be a better route.
Sorry to hear this Tom. Yes contact Accurascale Im sure they will send you a new motor, they have done with mine. Hope it goes well Cheers Peter
I’ve just had the same problem on my Hattons class 66,the motor looks identical to your class 37 motor.I found that both the pole magnets had become unglued from the motor body causing the magnets to hug the armature which was causing rough running and excess amp drawer.I super glued the magnets back in the correct position and found the motor to run perfectly again.
Thank you for your great video.
Hi Peter, Great you solved it. I have two of Accurascale’s Class 37’s now both bought with sound. You’re scaring me. It is a long way from Colorado USA to get parts and communication is really only by email. I have my fingers crossed that yours was a rare manufacturing defect and I won’t have the same problems. By the time I get the drivers in and detail at least one end, I don’t want to lose it all. Thanks for the video, Rob
I've been highlighting exactly this on various YT channel comments for months! There is a reliability issue which starts to show up after a couple of hours or so use on all of their model range. I've had 12 so far and only 3 are still running correctly. I've sent 6 back to retailers and Accurascale so far! Houston (Accurascale) we have a problem!
Peter you are a star. How on Earth you managed to to dismantle the class 37 and make an excellent video is absolutely incredible.
I have a Carl Haviland with the same problem and wish now I had never bought it in the first place.
Full price eBay purchase so I am stuck with it.
I almost bought another (Shap Fell) and so glad I discovered this in time.
Looking at your video has put me right off DCC.
I just cannot cope with all the complexities and unreliabilities.
Thank you so very much for all you have done.
Kind regards, Andrew (Central Scotland)
Sorry to hear that about the model Andrew. To be fair over the last five years I have enjoyed my modelling I have had issues with all manufactures. Unlike my old models where they were built to be more serviceable and spares were available. I wonder if there's a modelling club in your area you can go for help in this? All the best to you Peter
Excellent work, Peter. Really interesting to see how this locomotive is constructed. Let's wait and see how the new motor runs once installed.
Not the 37s now with motor issues first the Deltic then the 92 and now the 37 don’t feel you with confidence in Accurascale
Indeed Danny. I was worried when I saw what was happening to the Deltic's and the 92s.
It’s not good at all to be honest the quality control hasn’t been the best with them either
Downfall with accurascale is they get so personal about us finding issues with their models like it’s end of the world! I’ve had accurascales Richard block me because I’ve shared this video! Facebook Accurascale have blocked me because I’ve shared other issues with their windows falling out of the class 37’s …….this issue regarding the motor doing possible damage to circuit board in my eyes is probably the most serious so far!
Ohhh yeah Richard also told me Rails of Sheffield would have pre orders available on accurascale class 37 network rail a few months back….only turns out rails never had them on pre order according to Rails few week back now it’s egg on their face for misleading a customer literally was willing to shell out £169.99 on the class 37 n accurascales team are all like nooo you work for bachmann n I’m like i f…..g wish a did ha I’d have first choice on their models obviously 😂🤣🤣🤣😂🤣🤣😂😂rails of Sheffield have been a godsend though having sold me such beautiful models.
Excellent video Peter.
Likewise I have the DCC Concepts Alpha meter and find it a “must have” to see what’s going on power wise. As yet, only running a test track which gives me very reliable readings on the meter. Nothing on the track, obviously no current drawn so what ever it shows with a loco on track is a perfect reading. Going on your video, it would appear you have a standing current draw of 300 milliamps with your “on track” locomotives, hence your readings of around 400 milliamps work out to only 100 milliamps to the motor on a running locomotive, way below DCC decoder ratings. There will be small variations in current as motor load increases due to friction between wheels and track when negotiating bends and point work.
Interesting and a little disconcerting to hear you’ve had motor trouble with the Accurascale 37 particularly as I have one on order from the second run. Hopefully yours was a one-off and I’d like to think these motors are built to the same quality as the model they’re fitted in. That said, I’ve had two Bachmann Class 66 motors go bad on me drawing close to 1 amp and getting rather hot in the process after what might be considered low usage.
Thanks for a most interesting video as I now consider myself all clued up on strip down and motor replacement for the 37, which, fingers crossed, I won’t have to do.
Regards Dave B.
Glad to have been of use David. I do go on though LoL Cheers Peter
Hello Peter, very very interesting video watching you taking that 37 apart and your testing rig for the motor was a great idea. I hope you get it sorted see you at GETS.
Wow peter these companys should be paying you for all the great work. More power to you. All the best Bill from Western Australia.
Hi Peter, Spot on, I found this out and told Accurascale about it weeks ago. Out of my 6 37's, 4 have the problem. I went a bit further and stripped the motor down. The problem is with the brushes. When you look at the commutator the pads are bridged with what looks like copper. This is shorting out and causing the increased amperage. (I have photographs I can send you). On that particular motor I cleaned the grooves on the commutator out and refitted the motor with Hornby brushes. That loco has now done over 16 hours and it is silky smooth, even smoother that an Accurascale without a problem. Incidentally the problem only really starts to materialise when you have done a couple of hours running. I have a Z21 and noticed the amps jumping up straight away. There is no guarantee that your replacement motor will be a good one!
Hi Cliff, stay tuned for part two video as I have some good news, as while I am waiting for replacement motor, these idle fingers got to work on the motor and I decided to take it apart.Like you I cleaned the grooves on the commutator careful put back the end cap containing the brushes and I had a total different motor running perfectly. I am testing for now but I think its fixed :) When happy will post the video showing my results :)
All the best Peter
@@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 That’s good news, but I did that and I am afraid it will be short lived. The brushes are too hard and are wearing the commutator. The brushes will wear the pads and deposit the copper particles back in the groove. The only way I have managed to cure it is to fit the brushes/end cap from a Hornby motor. That one had been running over 16 hours! The brushes in a Hornby motor don’t appear to be as hard as Accurascale. I have sent them all this info along with all the photos.
@@cliffhorner Ok Cliff that's good to know and disappointing too. I don't have any other motors I can try what you did so I might start looking around Thanks for the heads up Peter
Downfall with accurascale is they get so personal about us finding issues with their models like it’s end of the world! I’ve had accurascales Richard block me because I’ve shared this video! Accurascale have all blocked me because I’ve shared other issues with their windows falling out of the class 37’s …….this issue regarding the motor doing possible damage to circuit board in my eyes is probably the most serious so far!
Nice work, so many would just jump on the manufacturer and start slamming their QC.
So they should. The QC is non existent.
Well Peter, such a shame you're having this problem, and I can understand why you don't want to send your 37 back. Your problem solving is second to none, and I think your very brave having a go at the repair. It's lucky that you're day job was as a Brain Surgeon, 😅 I'm impressed. Let's hope that Accurascale sort you a brand new motor quickly. Take care Eddy xx
Great video Pete ! hadn't heard of the Alpha meter ,now on my shopping list !
Thank you so much for this video and the comparison. Very helpful and interesting!
Thanks for doing the hard for me and saving me a little lolly. Keep up the great work.
Hello Peter, every Accurascale loco I've bought has done this speed variation malarky two 92s now two 37s, it always occurs after a few weeks running.
You may want to have a look on a post I did on RMweb asking in title:- Accurascale class 92 and 37 slowing down then speeding up.
it was amazing how many folk posted. It as always went off the subject and instead of how many folk had this problem it went more into motors. The topic is now closed? I have heard that the problem is the brushes being copper and using carbon brushes cures the problem? There is no way I can fix my locos due to eyesight and numbness in hands, so I am reliant on either refund or replacement. What you can do earns my admiration, Bill.
Hi Peter,
Lets hope this motor problem is all yours (very sorry) and that it is not a sign of things to come for the rest of us but a very good video showing us the inards of the 37 lets hope the new motor is not very long in coming and I do hope that Accurascale will not charge you anything for it and the post as you are saving them a lot of work what a nice man you are. So GETS 12 days away looking forward to seeing you and all the other YT'ers at 11am on the Saturday on the gallery 1st floor. Will watch out for part 2 soon hopefully.
Cheers Robert.
Hi Peter, great video as always, i have an issue with a noisy fan motor on my Hornby Platinum Juubilee HST set dummy car, i phoned the retailer i bought it from, they said i should bring it in so they can have a look, to be fair its the gearing inside the fan drive unit, i have cleaned it out and re-greased with a silicon quality lubricant, this worked with the other fan units on my 21 pin Railadventure hst set and the power car from the 21 pin Platinum Jubilee set, like you i don't want my dummy car handled and damaged as its pristine, i contacted Hornby about buying a new fan unit to which they replied i have to send it back for assessment, i am going to fit sound to the set in a few months so its not a total let down, just go to show manufacturers like Hornby who sell items that are not quite right but won't sell parts to repair them, the fans in my Bachmann class 47 are silent in operation, such a shame their units won't fit inside the Hornby hst unit, thanks for sharing this very informative video with use mate.
Good job you know what your doing peter but you shouldn't have to do that on a new £300 loco ,!!!!! Nice video that help people who got the same problem with there loco great video
Interesting to see how the class 37 comes apart. very true what you have been saying about the returns. we never seem to get a new one back. if anything goes wrong with the original purchase. thanks for sharing Pete. see you at gets....Cheer's Tony
Some interesting developments Peter. Hopefully the new motor will arrive soon & resolve the problem.
It’s the same with Co2 air rifles , they swap them out if faulty with a replacement , companies have them made in China and have no repair facilities so each faulty one is a loss for the company , guess it’s the price of having things made in China and I guess if the model you send back is sold out a refund is the only option , shame as the accurascale 37 is a thing of beauty to look at .
You'll have this sorted in no time, Peter. Thanks for the video. Great stuff👍🏻I'm going to get an alpha meter.
Hi Peter, very interesting video you’ve got me a bit worried now seeing all those motors you have changed in those boxes had change a Bachmann 37 motor a couple of weeks ago that burnt out a chip cheers al
Good job there Peter,you make it look easy, I have never yet had to take a soldering iron to a decoder board, I'm hoping I don't have an issue with my Accurascale class 37 when I get it.
Very interesting video Pete. I have had the same problem on my class 37 locomotive number 37419. Mine is a dcc ready version and to confirm the problem ran it on two different tracks and rolling road. I have had to send mine back to Rails who confirmed the problem and it has had to go back to accurascale for motor replacement. Wish I had you skills and tools to effectively repair my locomotive.
Very interesting and informative video hope you get it sorted out 👍
Hi Pete
What a superb video, very informative and well presented.
Just for your information, there were similar problems with the Hattons 66 motors and on RMWeb, under the 66 thread, was a series of photos that showed the problem with the motor. Taking the brass end cap off and pulling motor slightly out of housing showed the brushes not quite aligned with the commutator. I did this with one of my 66 locos and after re-aligning the brushes, all worked well although was a bit of a faff! Hattons did not do spare motors!! Best regards John
Hi John, that's interesting about the 66 motor I will see if I can find it. I had the same thinking it could be the brushes and can see that on this and the Hattons motors that it was a fault with them but on the other hand the motors for the Bachmann that I tested have brushes that are removable if needed. So they line up perfectly and yet they can give the same problem. Could be they are damaging/scratching the surface of the commutator. Seems to be a lottery with these Morden motors.
Cheers Peter
Watched this last night and was surprised to see you had a fault. Accurascale are good dealing with spares so should be ok. Great video, good for future reference. See you soon. Mick.
Nice one Peter . We both had our investment back on that ALPHA METER sure saved me a few Quid and you .
There has been some reports of what you said here in terms of running, which has been down to a faulty DCC chip as there is still a shortage and components are still not great quality... which leads to erratic running... always best to check on straight DC.... then you can clear and check the motor. However I know the motor manufacturer and with the number they produce I am not surprised there's the odd duff one around.. Hornby use the same supplier.
Hi Matt Yes to discount it being the chip. First test I did was swapped the chip into another loco and it worked perfectly and a known good chip into this loco and it ran with a fault
Had the same issue with one of mine, then got a replacement, but had a hunch that it was the motor at fault.
I changed the motor in a Hattons 66 before now, and I could have sworn it's the same motors as these 37s.
Hi Peter I had the same problem with an Accurascale Class 92 the current drawn became so high it kept tripping out the power supply due to overload. I sent it back to Rails who also had the same problem and they in turn returned it to Accurascale for attention. They tested loco and could find no fault so back it came to Rails. They tested it again for 4 hours and it ran perfectly so returned it to me. I've ran the loco frequently since then and it appears okay which is rather worrying so my fingers are crossed that the problem has gone away.
Hi Peter, another great video all the best TONY [ GRIFFIN STATION ].
It is sad to hear that one of your trains have broken down it's very interesting to see what's in those trains cos I see them on your track but I wonder how they work but when you took it apart I said wow that is complicated
🤣🤣 You made it look so easy..........🤣🤣👍👍
Wow... that was an interesting break down (or break apart). That was quite interesting and well explained and shown. I am just sorry it seems to be an issue! Cheers!
Another great video😊😊
Had the same issue with my class 92 in the end it would crawl around even at full power plus high current draw on the amp meter took nearly a month to get a replacement sent out,detail kit was already pre fitted on both ends so probably a used model but at least it works
I have replaced motors on a Bachman 419 mlv and a Heljan class 33 and sent a Dapol 73 and an Accurascale 92 back all with the same symptoms. I ran the faulty motors on a 9v battery to rule out ‘it’s your controller’
When I took the old motors I replaced apart the commutators were damaged by the brushes. I don’t know how much quality control the motors are subjected to but not much I suspect. I think they just accept a failure rate. The joys of multiple outsourcing chains.
Yes I wonder if the "carbon" of the brushes is to hard and damage/scratching as you say. Something to be said for the old motors where you could clean surfaces and replace brushes etc Can't do a thing with these things except get another
interesting to know what percentage class37 locos are returned. i assume ,with due care ,these expensive locos shoulds last a lifetime.i do have this specific loco, but have very light use.
anyway brilliant feedback video, thanks
it does it when you have the motor out, not attached to anything. obviously the motor or shafts, or flywheels. not binding wheels or drive shafts. you are right, hopefully the replacement motor will be fine. you could always put a motor from another accuscale 37 in to prove all the drive chain is fine, for peace of mind that it's all ok, but the motor is definitely dodgy
Fair play to you for doing it yourself sir but you should not have to.
I am afraid that as models become more and more detailed and complicated, quality control and maintenance become more difficult. This is true of all the manufacturers unfortunately.
It's so frustrating Peter - I've had exactly the same experience and they just repeatedly blame my PiSprog controller. I raised the issue on RMWeb and they got the posts taken down. In a more recent thread this week others have shared the issue and again after a couple of days the thread has been locked to prevent discussion with the answer being to contact them - not sure why they can't improve the quality - never had this with a Bachmann loco (or a Hornby infact!)
Sorry to say Adam this problem is not exclusive to Accurascale as I have had problems with Bachmann and Hornby motors as well
@@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 Hi Peter, it's not exclusively - but there does seem to be a high incidence rate. Hopefully they can sort the production issues out!
Clearly a common issue. First reported it almost 12 months ago and still seeing the same cop-out responses on rmweb blaming controllers.
They've removed taken down my friends comments to on Facebook its a regular thing! A few of them re posted the comment again and guess what... yes comment removed again! Overall i'm getting constant messages and them complaining about faulty accurascale or broken accurascale same with bachmanns latest tooled model, motor issues running issue's... it would appear bachmann re tooled and rushed out there 37 & 47 very quickly to compete in the market with accurascale all in all i do not want to have any here from either company now to weather detail or do out on i'm sick to death of the issues now and really don't have any patience for these super detailed full of issues models.
I have watched a few model train videos and regardless of the manufacture faults are coming more common. Is China losing interest in making model trains ? One idea been put forward is there is more money to be made in high-profile tech items like ' Apple' products than model railways, another is China is struggling to clear it's backlog after the lockdowns. Who knows until things improve I will pass on new models.
Great detective work there! They seem to have had a few motor failures and they keep blaming controller/layout problems!
Hello. Can I ask, how long you had the '37 running OK until it started demonstrating faulty running? Cheers, Chris.
Hi Chris. She had a 30 min running in time both ways at first then over the next few days maybe the total time of running that loco was maybe 3 or so hours.
@@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 That’s awful though I'm glad the problem showed itself quite quickly
Does that indicate a one off faulty motor perhaps. Hope so. Does rather spoil the Accurascale experience for you. I think you acted completely correctly in taking matters into your own hands and changing the motor yourself. I'm expecting my '37 any time now so let's see if I have an issue. Cheers Chris.
If I had a faulty item, I would not fiddle with it, I'd return it to where you brought it, and require them to replace, repair or refund.
Hi there, yes done that in the past and got back a loco with marked bodywork that still didn't work. Plus I love to meddle and that resulted in the model working fine now (see part two)
Thanks Peter
Bloody hell, what world do we live in! We can fly to the moon and back, but can’t still manufacture small motors for our hobby 😢
The World is awash with reliable micromotors. Manufacturers like Faulhaber, Maxon , Canon, Portescap, Bühler, Mitsumi and Roco made inhouse in Romania. None are Chinese companies. It's a shame Accurascale and Hornby source motors from a Chinese company!
Shocker. Another Accurascale loco with a shoddy motor. Don't worry, post on the major forum or on Accurascale social media about it and comments deleted, many people telling you you're lying and threads locked. It'll come back to bite them one day
Ahhh RMWeb at a guess? The army of bedroom censors wielding big sticks. What a dump that forum is.
Hi Peter. Ive recently got the newest bachman 37.
Frustrating.. goes mental doesn't respond to emergency stop when needed. New plux 22 chip fitted ok. Please can you share what cv's you've set your 37's at so that I can go any further with this model. Many thanks John...
Hi John, the problem is I don't have the new Bachmann 37, so my setting won't do for your model as I believe its a totally different setup to mine, so sorry I don't think I can help and to be honest from what you say about not responding It doest seem yours is OK so CVs are not the problem. Have you done a reset of the chip? It's what I would try. Hope you get it sorted
Cheers Peter
Peter - thanks for the video -how long was it befroe the issue emerged - I've run mine in for an hour so far....but obviously I'm concerned with the problem you had...
Hi Chris. She had a 30 min running in time both ways at first then over the next few days maybe the total time of running that loco was maybe 3 or so hours.
Thanks @@torridonroadbypeterdixon4162 I shall see how I get on....
Does your 37 models feel warm after running after about 30 minutes to an hour ie after running in because was wondering if that might be a sign of things to come if not it's just a motor that gets warmer with no consequences thanks again
Yes, its starts to get very warm due to the increased amps. I have had 4 out of my 6 37's develop the problem. It starts to show around 2 hours of running. I run mine in at a moderate pace, 1 hour in each direction. If you get to 3 hours your doing well!
@cliffhorner good to know but hopefully it doesn't become a problem and the motor burns out and need replacing and you just run in sections at a time allowing it to cool down before running it again
@@penjunction If its getting warm it indicates that there is already a problem. The problem I have seen on all of them so far is that the brushes are too hard. The brushes are wearing the commutator and depositing the copper in the grooves between the pads. The build up of copper then causes a short between the pads which increases the current draw, in return generating the heat.
@@cliffhorner thanks do you think I should get in touch or wait and see if there is a recall or if it becomes more of an issue?
Hi, pleased to say the motor did not get hot, however that may be down to the fact I did not run it much after the problem.
This has convinced me not to buy the 37. There is obviously a manufacturing issue and considering the price of these models it’s unacceptable.
Hi Richard, the trouble is there are plenty that have not had problems. I really think that it maybe down to a faulty batch. At this moment in time I have replaced the motors with new ones sent to me and all is well. Time will see if this has now cured the problem. Cheers Peter