HO track overcurrent problem.

[traingeek344]

I need your help identifying the cause of overcurrent of my ho train track. It occurs with any engine I run on the track. I use a power pack with an ammeter and voltmeter included. The track bus is 14 ga awg stranded wire with 20 ga awg droppers every 6 ft of track for a total of 20 ft. As I run an engine only, at 25% speed, the ammeter starts at 1/2 amp and jumps anywhere up to 3 amps as the engine runs around the loop. I'm at a loss what to look for that causes this. The engine is a new Bowser dc engine and runs at 1/4 amp on my separate test track. Any suggestions what I can do to troubleshoot will be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[D&J RailRoad]

what kind of engine are you doing this test with? i.e. steam or diesel?

 

[MikeGTW]

Another question are you using the same power pack on both the test track and your layout If not then could be a problem with the throttle
If same throttle for both then something in either wiring or track work

 

[migalyto]

Have you tried a different locomotive? Does it have the same result?