newbie smoke problem... - Classic Toy Trains Magazine

From the book: When the smoke unit switch is in the ON position, always keep a small amount

of smoke fluid in the locomotive's smoke generator; the generator's element

can become damaged if operated without smoke fluid. This is particularly true

if your locomotive sits in neutral for an extended period of time without smoke

fluid in the generator.

I would imagine that the heating element is off, by way of the switch or it was damaged by running the engine dry.  Too much fluid will temporarily curtail but not completely disable the smoke.  If by chance the first drops of fluid were put in the unit after the coil became hot, the cold fluid can destroy a fine hot winding on the heating element.  I would assume this is a plunger type generator and I have seen excess heat also stop the piston from movement. 

Fortunately, new elements and smoke generator repairs are relative inexpense.  I just installed a new fan driven smoke generator this summer and I believe the cost was around $27.  A plunger type generator is less $$$.

Celebrating 18 years on the CTT Forum. 

Buckeye Riveter......... OTTS Charter Member, a Roseyville Raider and a member of the CTT Forum since 2004..

Jelloway Creek, OH - ELV 1,100 - Home of the Baltimore, Ohio & Wabash RR

TCA 09-64284