Model Railway Forum

Back in the 80s I had a Zero one and several trains that where converted to run on the set up. With my son now showing some interest I decided to get it out, clean it up and get it running. Only one train works (lots of sparks). I’m assuming that the others may need a good clean but ideally I would like to give the trains a good clean and convert them back to DC.

Is this just a case of removing the chip and connecting the motor to the pick ups.

I seem to remember (it was 30+ years ago) that there was a resistor or capacitor across the motor that had to be removed to convert to the zero one.

Is there a way of checking the motor, I was thinking of connecting wires directly from the track to the motor.

Any help would be appropriate.

Thanks .

Hi
Two wires are only needed for DC operation. One from each sides wheel wipers and they go directly to the soldered motor wiring tabs or its alternative connections. Once any Zero 1 module is removed and if its working it can be sold on ebay as some still use the system.
If the loco runs in the opposite direction from all other locos then swap around the two motor feed wires on their motor connections.
Note for DC locos, when a positive voltage is applied to the right hand rail a steam outline loco looking from driving cab to chimney the loco should move in a forward direction.

The capacitor and probably a Choke (Not a resistor, though it often looks like a resistor) were in place to help prevent RF (Radio Frequency) interference caused by the motor brushes arcing. If wished wire a 470pF to 0.1uF ceramic capacitor directly across the motor terminals.

Thank you Brian, that was very helpful.