Controllers Don't Work At Low Speeds

[Daniel-1276780]

I just bought my son the "Scalextric American Police Chase AMC Javelin vs Dodge Challenger Police Car" (US version) and there seems to be an issue with the controllers. You have to fully squeeze the controllers to get the cars to go, but then the cars take off at break neck speed. If you try and squeeze the controllers lightly, the cars don't move at all. So it means that there is no sensitivity to the controllers, you either go at full tilt or not at all.

My assumption is that it might be to do with the power unit, as the problem is the same with both controllers, both lanes and both cars...

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

[Andy P.]

I did a lengthy response on this and then the Internet ate it....

Slightly shorter version:

Test the cars by putting a 9 volt battery to the pickups.

If they turn easily they are fine. if not, open up and see if there is something jamming or a loose wire.

Run the cars on the powerbase only: This will eliminate any problems with pieces of track.

Make sure all connections are pushed in firmly and do not wiggle.

If the cars still do not work you can carefully inspect the inside of the powerbase for loose connections.

If that all seems OK likely the controllers are broken and need replaced.

Contact Hornby US or the place you bought them from...