[topjimi1]

I bought a "Christmas Train" made in China for around our Christmas tree. It is powered by 4 "C" batteries. WHen I load the batteries into the battery compartment the train works for a few minutes but the batteries overheat and split within that same few minutes. I removed the battery compartment and connected a battery to the leads but the same thing happened. I would love to get this thing running for my kids by Christmas. Please help! Thanks and Merry Christmas!

[smoothy]

Sounds like its defective to me... you need to take it back.

Its drawing WAY too much current for some reason.

[topjimi1]

Unfortunately, I cannot take it back. Is there anything else that I could do to fix it? Could I change battery size or voltage? It plays some Christmas songs and makes train noises as well. I would live without that if I could just get the train to run for Christmas morning... What could be making it draw so much current? I know this sounds like a lot but its Christmas and this train circling the tree will be so cool for the kids so please try... Whether you can come up with a solution or not, God Bless, Thank you and Merry Christmas!

[smoothy]

Shorted windings in the electric motors most likely. Defect in any control circuits that let you adjust speed and not just on or off.

But seriously... speaking as someone that has a degree in electronics... there is nothing you are going to be able to do to fix it.

This really is one of those times that if you have to ask...

And even if it's a defective motor, I couldn't even fix it if it was in front of me.

I know what you are saying...

The only thing you can possibly try... is if you were using Hi quality batteries like Duracells or rechargibles... is try using the cheaper Alkiline batteries.( the packages will say Alkiline on them).. those CAN'T deliver as much current. If that doesn't work... its a lost cause.

[topjimi1]

That was a hard messsage to deliver but I understand... I will try the alkaline batteries though... Thanks for taking the time... Merry Christmas again!

[smoothy]

That was a hard messsage to deliver but I understand... I will try the alkaline batteries though... Thanks for taking the time... Merry Christmas again!

And Merry Christmas to you too.


THere are certain items they tell you to NOT use NiCad, NmHydride, or LIthium Ion rechargibles... or the Duracell types... because they can draw more current than is safe... Like cameras for one.

My camera if you take 10 or 20 photos in rapid succession the batteries WILL get so hot you can't hold them. If I put some of the rechargibles in it... the Camera might draw enough current to damage it... and I do believe it would.

Hopefully that will work for you long enough to get through the holiday.

Sometimes you get something good, sometimes you get total crap dealing with chinese manufactuerd stuff... with rare exceptions... if its not a well known name brand and is electrical or electronic... (includes battery powered stuff) I steer a wide berth. The other stuff can be a bargain however...

And Merry Christmas.

[tkrussell]

Honestly, this is the issue:

"Made in China"

Be sure the batteries, which ever type, are not made there also.

And, you helped them even more by getting into a situation that you cannot return it.

More MIC crap that they cannot be held accountable for.