During routine maintenance, cables and wiring are cleaned and painted; coils and armatures are
cleaned, dipped, and baked; and main power switches are checked for proper alinement, wear, and
burning or pitting. Electrical circuits are tested to insure that connections are all correct. Insulation
resistance tests indicate the presence of moisture, dirt, or grease that can cause insulation failures even
though nothing is wrong with the insulation.
Clean and lubricate the voltage regulator. Replace worn parts and assure that the regulator is set
to manufacturer's specifications. Load regulators also need regular cleaning as well as tightening of
connections, and replacing of seals to prevent oil leakage. Care of reversers includes renewing piston
packing and adjusting contacts and interlocks. Maintenance of magnet valves is also important.
The battery should be kept clean and dry, and should be blocked to prevent movement. In cold
weather, add the battery water just before the locomotive goes into service. The hydrometer reading
should vary between 1,280 and 1,160.
Clean the bearings and bearing parts, such as housing, with kerosene or other petroleum cleaner.
Inspect and repack the bearings and replace them as necessary. When a bearing is removed, mark it to
be replaced in the slot from which it was taken.
Follow manufacturer's instructions closely for testing a locomotive's electrical equipment; do not
attempt to make substitutions or to take shortcuts. Test insulation periodically and remedy all defects to
avoid failures en route.
Section III. Troubleshooting
2.33. GENERAL
Troubleshooting is a systematic method of locating the cause of trouble. An unserviceable
locomotive will be reported for repair with vague complaints about its malfunction, and the repairman
will be expected to diagnose the trouble. He soon learns that a certain symptom is caused by one of
several things. Then he checks these things to determine which is at fault. This section gives some of
the more common malfunctions of the locomotive and lists their likely causes. It is intended to serve
only as a general guide, since specifications for each piece of equipment vary. The operator must check
his operation and maintenance manual before taking any corrective action. He must report any trouble
that he or his crew is not authorized to correct to organizational maintenance.
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