Controller Operations; Understanding Short Circuits - Lionel THOMAS & FRIENDS Owner's Manual

Controller operations

Understanding short circuits

T he power pack furnished with this train
set has been listed by the Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. and has been carefully
tested to assure proper performance. This
controller is equipped with a built-in circuit
breaker that will alternately cut off and
restore the flow of power to the track when-
ever a short circuit exists until the cause of
the short circuit is eliminated. This circuit
breaker is incorporated into the controller to
protect the power pack from possible perma-
nent damage. It will not protect the locomo-
tive or electrically operated accessories.
NOTE: The transformer must be unplugged
from the wall socket when a short circuit
is noticed, and the short circuit must be
corrected.
A short circuit is caused by a direct con-
nection across the rails (such as a derailed
Parents should periodically inspect the power pack for potential hazards such as a broken
or damaged case and have it repaired or replaced. See the Lionel Service Station listing for
information and the address of the nearest Authorized Service Station.
engine), or by two bare wires touching each
other at the track Lock-On. Some other
causes of short circuits might be staples,
nails, paper clips, or other metallic objects
lying across the rails.
An overload condition could be caused by
carrying too much weight inside the cars, or
by holding the engine while it is under
power, or by a sudden start or direction
change.
After operating the power pack for a while
you will find it warm to the touch. It is the
nature of all electrical power equipment to
become warm when in use. If your power
pack is loaded to capacity, it is a good idea
to let it cool down after an hour or two of
continuous use. Be sure to unplug the power
pack when not in use.
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