Lionel power transformer lights, whistles work but trains won't move

Good work, Dan! Fixing trains can be as much fun as running them.

IfIam correct, the basic Polar Express came with just a whistle. There is an optional coal tender that has a better sound system in it...Whistle bell and steam sound also try reversing the power wires at the transformer or track

The contacts on the switch may be dirty but the most likely problem is that both selenium rectifiers are dead. Replacement silicon rectifiers are available if you want to do the repair yourself. Check the internet for suppliers. You can get the ZW repaired at most good Lionel service centers for a reasonable price. Get a list of service centers by searching on-line or at Lionel.com.

Replace all batteries in locomotive & remote.
You do need to be fairly close to the set with the
remote for it to work.

You do not specify which Santa Fe steam engine you have, but I am going to guess it's the Santa Fe RTR O27 set...

Here's a link to the manual for it. Go to page 9, read the last paragraph on the page. It may be the answer to your problem


.http://www.lionel.com/media/servicedocuments/71-1900-250.pdf


Hope this helps.

The Green light on, But flashing and the train don't move

It sounds as though you may have two defective transformers. Lionel has reported problems with some of their smaller transformers. I would have the transformers and the engines checked by a Lionel service station or contact their customer service department for help.

Did you ever solve your problem? My son is having the same problem.

I have the original Instructions for Operating the 1033(written in 1953) - the second paragraph of the "How To Connect Transformer" reads as follows: The "Multi -Control" transformers listed in this leaflet have four binding posts located on the top of the transformers. Of these, "A-U" and "B-U" combinations furnish variable voltage for the track. The control arm of the transformer simultaneously regulate the voltage output of both the "A-U" and the "B-U" combinations. The transformer nameplate indicates the voltage ranges of these two combinations.The "A-U" combination supplies any voltage from 5 to 16 volts. The B-U combination has voltage from 0 to 11 volts. In selecting the proper range of voltage for your particular outfit, try the lower "B-U" combination first. If the maximum train speed is not satisfactory, then try the "A-U" posts.

To paraphrase the "How to Connect Accessories" section: accessories work best with fixed voltage - these voltages are obtained from the following pairs of output binding posts: "A-B" 5 volts; "B-C" 11 volts and "A-C" 16 volts.
Hope this helps, Mark

If you can pull the roof off of Thomas there is an on/off switch within the cab. I don't know if you tried that at all..just a thought..