THE BIT TO REMEMBER
Compare one known-working DC locomotive and one known-working section of track before blaming a component.
Stop for heat, smell or noise
Switch off if the model or controller becomes unusually hot, smells hot, sparks excessively or makes a new grinding sound. Do not repeatedly apply full power.
Check the whole railway first
Confirm the controller is powered, connected to the track output and not showing an overload. Remove loose metal objects and check that section switches and points are set for the intended route.
Make a controlled comparison
On a suitable test track, try a known-working DC locomotive. Then try the suspect model on a known-working DC setup if available. Do not put an unknown model straight onto DCC.
Record exactly what happens
Note whether lights work, whether the motor hums, whether it moves in either direction and whether the fault is intermittent. Those details help a repairer diagnose it without guesswork.
A REAL-WORLD EXAMPLE
If two DC locomotives stop at the same rail joiner, inspect that location. If only one model fails everywhere on a known-working DC track, record its symptoms for the workshop.
Your next step
- Switch off immediately for heat, smell, overload or grinding.
- Check the controller, feeds, points and section switches.
- Compare with a known-working DC locomotive.
- Create a fault record and book a repair if the fault follows the model.
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Still not running properly?
Choose the appropriate gauge on the workshop website to book an inspection.
Book a serviceRead the original instructions
Reviewed 7 October 2026. These beginner notes do not replace the instructions for your exact model.
Hornby · HM|DC troubleshooting guide ↗Hornby · Locomotive maintenance sheets ↗