Maersk Binding Issues

[Rob Klingberg]

I've had my Maersk set up and running for several months now, and overall I think it's a great set (I especially like the large engine). I've had some problems with the bricks binding, though, and am just wondering if others have seen the same.

The worst offenders are the magnetic coupling assemblies on both ends of the engine-- these seem to come off with the slightest touch. I've even thought about (gasp!) gluing them just to keep them in place. I've also had issues with the entire middle section of the engine-- lifting one of the fans to turn on the battery box is likely to loosen entire sections of the engine.

I've also noticed that one of the magnets had almost zero holding power for other rolling stock-- it's just the one magnet on the engine, but it's noticeably weak.

This is the first time I've noticed any of these issues with a Lego train, so again just wondering if others are seeing the same.

--Rob

[AussieJimbo]

My Maersk was built from existing parts so I can't speak for the actual set but I have not had the problems you mention with coupler assemblies detaching or when accessing the power button.

I have on occasions had problems with weak magnetic connections. I think sometimes the magnet inside doesn't spin around properly but a bit of a tap will free it. However, I think there are one or two connectors in my fleet that remain weak. Will have to do some checking.

:classic:

Edited July 22, 2011 by AussieJimbo

[22kane]

Interesting. One of the magnets on the container car is weak and breaks connection from time to time. Other than that I've had no real issues. If you're planning to always keep the engine I would just use a small about of glue. Elmers can bond plastic but can be washed off if needed. If you use super glue though it's together for life.

[paul_delahaye]

Are we talking about the 2 magnets pulling apart or the magnet coming away from the bogie?

If it's the 2 magnets pulling apart, can't you just use a couple of 1x2 plates to lock them together?

[Rob Klingberg]

Are we talking about the 2 magnets pulling apart or the magnet coming away from the bogie?

If it's the 2 magnets pulling apart, can't you just use a couple of 1x2 plates to lock them together?

Hi Paul, it's actually both.

--Rob

[hoeij]

I've also noticed that one of the magnets had almost zero holding power for other rolling stock-- it's just the one magnet on the engine, but it's noticeably weak.

If you have only one bad magnet, then put that one on the front of the engine.

Sometimes these magnets connect with little holding force. In that case, pull the two cars apart, with about 1/2 inch between the two magnets, then wiggle the two magnets until you hear it go "click", that's when the magnet inside has turned to the correct position. Then let the two cars come back together again. This time, it will hold.

Each time you add another car to the train, if you pay attention you can feel if the magnets are connected properly or not, because if the magnets are turned the right way, you feel way more pulling force when you attach the next car. If you don't feel a good pulling force, just wiggle the magnets until you do feel it.