My DC Helmsman controller has developed a fault which was repaired by Peco 5 years ago. A phone call to Peco revealed they do not service or repair those controllers. The cable to the handset when moved will cut the power to the tracks and the directional switch when changed, the loco will go the same way. Anyone with ideas what I can do or send it to for repairs?. Tony.
Hi, Not too familiar with that controller, but it sounds like the wires have got damaged at some point and causing wires to either open circuit in the car of no power or short circuit when the direction switch is changed. Best course of action would be to replace the cord, and what looks like a moulded DIN plug, you will have to determine this plug type for a replacement and get a cable with the correct number of cores. Be a simple job for an electronics person. Hopefully you could find someone local, would not really need to be a model railway specialist. Hope this helps Tony
The cable to my handset has not been pulled or twisted, in fact, the controller gets little use. The break in the cable seems to be just inside the handset . Peco have now said they are willing to have a go but, cannot guarantee they will be able to fix the problem due to no spares. On another forum, other people have had the same problem but haven`t revealed how they went about repairing the problem even though they say theirs is sorted. Tony.
One guy told me why the directional switch doesn`t work properly when there is a break in the cable. I decided to have a go at a repair . The 5 coloured wires are very thin. I cut out a piece of cable and re-attached by using a choc block connector , this save disturbing the factory soldered joints to the board. The handset now works perfectly . I don`t have much faith in this product anymore and I know it will fail again but, I can repair it . Next time I may by a new cable. Tony.
