6 replies to this topic

[Philip Soares]

The outside lane on my Carrara analog track is dead. The problem looks to be a failed capacitor between the positive and negative at the rails. A quick check with a multimeter set on continuity shows that power is going through the capacitor causing a lack of power when controller is depressed.

 

I need to know what value or what properties the capacitor is to find a replacement. The capacitor is orange and is stamped with the number 223.

 

Thank you,

 

Phil

 

 

 

[zipper]

Does it get hot? Then there is a short. Afaik those caps are just for RF (spark)  interference suppression and have nothing to do with moving the cars. In some home tracks the caps were built into the cars.

[Philip Soares]

Thank you Zipper,I did a little expirement, I CUT ONE OF THE CAPACITOR LEADS, then tried to operate a car,The car worked fine when pulling the trigger on the controller,So there must be some relation to the track besides spark arrest for this capacitor,,and No the track didn't get hot like you had asked.Phil usa

[Dave Crevie]

Those capacitors are only for RF suppression, so that kids playing with the track won't ruin daddy's TV reception

on Superbowl Sunday. Most home set cars also have them across the lugs on the motors. We always cut them off

so they don't pop during a race and make a mess inside the car.

[Rotorranch]

Phil,

 

The cap is for RFI interference only. If it shorted out, it will prevent that lane from running. I will venture a guess that if you check the cap with your DVM, it'll show a dead short.

 

Rotor

[Philip Soares]

Thank you Rotor,my meter showed continuity when both LEADS were touched to the legs of the capacitor,which is a failed,shorted capacitor.After cutting away the capacitor the lane worked fine, thanks again, Phil,USA indy

[Rotorranch]

It won't cause any issues with the performance of the cars or track. You may, however, get extra "rice krispies" on your AM radio.

 

Rotor